M 


--4'- 


PRINCETON,     N.     J. 


?i 


RARE  BOOKS 

r 
Number, 


-*■ 


*** 


THE 

CONSTITUTION 

AND 

/ 

STANDARDS 

OF    THB 

ASSOCIATE-REFORMED  CHURCH 

IN 

NORTH-AMERICA, 


THE 


CONSTITUTION 


AND 


STANDARDS 


OF  THE 


ASSOCIATE-REFORMED  CHURCH 


IN 


NORTH-AMERICA. 


NEW- YORK: 
Printed  by  T.  &  J.  SWORDS,  No.  99  Pearl-ftreet. 

1799. 


Associate-Reformed  Synod  at  Greencastle, 
May  31,  1799. 


THE  Synod,  having  judicially  ratified  the  West- 
minster Confession  of  Faith,  and  Catechisms  Larger 
and  Shorter,  with  a  modification  of  the  doctrine  con- 
cerning the  power  of  the  civil  magistrate  in  matters  of 
religion ;  and  having  also  ratified  the  Overture  for  the 
Government  and  Discipline  of  the  Church,  and  the  Direc- 
tories for  Worship,  Public  and  Private,    do    hereby 

DECLARE, 

That  they  consider  the  said  Confession  of  Faith, 
Larger  and  Shorter  Catechisms,  Form  of  Church-go- 
vernment, and  Directories  for  Worship,  as  their  fixed 
testimony,  by  which  their  principles  are  to  be  tried  ; 
or  as  the  Judicial  expression  of  the  sense  in  which  they 
understand  the  Holy  Scriptures  in  their  relation  to  the 
Doctrine,  Government,  and  Worship  of  the  Christian 
Church:  And  it  is  their  resolution  to  emit  occasional 
testimonies,  in  particular  acts,  against  errors  and  de- 
lusions. 

Agreeably  hereunto,  the  terms  on  which  any  person 
or  persons  shall  be  admitted  as  a  member  or  members 
of  this  church,  are,  A  profession  of  faith  in  the  Holy 
Scriptures  of  the  Old  and  New  Testaments,  as  the  per- 
fect and  only  rule  of  faith  and  practice ;  together  with 
an  approbation  of  the  Confession  of  Faith,  Larger  and 
Shorter  Catechisms,  Form  of  Church-government,  and 
Directories  for  Worship,  as  therein  received  ;  a  holy  life 
and  conversation,  and  subjection  to  the  Order  and  Dis- 
cipline of  the  Church. 

They  moreover  declare  the  aforesaid  Confession  of 
Faith,  Larger  and  Shorter  Catechisms,  together  with 
the  Government  and  Discipline  of  the  Church,  and  the 
Directories  for  Public  and  Private  Worship,  to  be  the 


Constitution  and  Standards  of  the  Associate-Re- 
formed Church,  in  all  matters  relating  to  Doctrine, 
Government,  Discipline,  and  Worship :  Provided  that 
nothing:  in  this  declaration  shall  be  construed  to  extend 
to  the  appendices  thereunto  annexed,  so  as  to  comprise 
the  same  within  the  terms  of  communion.  Of  all  which 
the  Judicatories  and  members  of  the  Church  are  re- 
quired to  take  notice,  that  they  may  govern  themselves 
accordingly. 

By  order  of  Synod, 

JOHN  RIDDELL,  Moderator. 

EBENEZER  DICKEY,  Clerk  P.  T. 


GENERAL  CONTENTS. 


The  Confession  of  Faith, 

The  Larger  Catechism. 

The  Shorter  Catechism. 

The  Government  of  the  Church. 

The  Discipline  of  the  Church. 

Directory  for  Public  Worship. 

Direclory  for  Private  Worship. 

Appendix  I.  Forms  of  Ecclesiastical  Papers. 

II.  Rules  of  Procedure  in  Judicatories- 

III.  Solemnization  of  Marriage. 

IV.  Burial  of  the  Dead. 
The  Sum  of  Saving  KnovMdge. 

The  Practical  Use  of  Saving  Knowledge. 


/ 


Associate-Reformed  Synod,  May  31,  1799- 

THE  Westminster  Confession  of  Faith,  with  the  Catechisms 
Larger  and  Shorter,  having  been  lormerly  received  by  this 
Sviiod,  with  a  reservation  for  future  discussion  of  the  doctrine  re- 
specting the  power  of  the  civil  magistrate  in  matters  of  religion  ;  and 
the  said  doctrine  being  now  modified  in  a  manner  more  agreeable  to 
the  word  of  God,  to  the  nature  of  the  Christian  Church,  and  to  the 
principles  of  civil  society,  The  Synod  do  explicitly  recei  ve  the  afore- 
said Confession  and  Catechisms,  with  the  doctrine  concerning  the 
civil  magistrate,  as  now  stated  in  the  twentieth,  twenty-third,  and 
thirty-first  chapters  of  the  Confession,  as  the  system  of  doctrine 
which  is  built  upon  the  foundation  of  the  Apostles  and  Prophets, 
Jksus  Christ  himself  being  the  chief  corner-stone:  And  the  Synod 
do  hereby  declare,  that  the  aioresaid  Confession  and  Catechism-,, 
as  herein  received,  contain  the  true  and  genuine  doctrine  of  the  As- 
soctAiii-REFORMED  Church;  and  that  no  tenet  contrary  there- 
to, or  to  any  part  thereof,  shall  be  countenanced  in  this  Church. 

By  order  of  the  Synod, 

JOHN   RIDDELL,  Muferator. 

EBENEZER  DICKEY,  Otri  P.  T. 


THE 


CONFESSION   OF  FAITH, 


AGREED   UPON  BY   THE 


ASSEMBLY  OF  DIVINES  AT  WESTMINSTER, 


WITH  THE  ASSISTANCE  OF 


COMMISSIONERS 


FROM    THE 


CHURCH    OF    SCOTLAND, 


AS   RECEIVED   BY  THE 


ASSOCIATE-REFORMED   CHURCH 


NORTH-AMERICA. 


WITH    THE 


PROOFS  FROM  THE  SCRIPTURE. 


NEW-YORK: 
Printed  by  T.  &  J.  SWORDS,  No.  99  Pearl-street. 

I799. 


CONTENTS, 


Ch 


Al' 


I. 

n. 
in. 

IV. 

v. 

VI. 

VII. 

VIII. 

IX. 

X. 

XI. 

XII. 

XIII. 

XIV. 

XV. 

XVI. 

XVII. 

XVIII. 

XIX. 

XX. 

XXI. 

XXII. 

XXIII. 

XXIV. 

XXV. 

XXVI. 

XXVII. 

XXVIII. 

XXIX. 

XXX. 

XXXI. 

XXXII. 

XXXIII. 


o. 


F  the  Holy  Scripture. 
Of  God  and  of  the  Holy  Trinity. 
Of  God's  eternal  Decree. 
Of  Creation. 
Of  Providence. 
Of  the  Fall  of  Man,  of  Sin,  and  of  the  Punishment 

thereof. 
Of  God's  Covenant  with  Man. 
Of  Christ  the  Mediator. 
Of  Free  Will. 
Of  effectual  Calling. 
Of  Justification. 
Of  Adoption. 
Of  Sancliification. 
Of  saving  Faith. 
Of  Repentance  unto  Life. 
Of  good  Works. 

Of  the  Perseverance  of  the  Saints. 
Of  Assurance  of  Grace  and  Salvation. 
Of  the  Law  of  God. 

Of  Christian  Liberty,  and  Liberty  of  Conscience. 
Of  Religious  Worship,  and  the  Sabbath-Day. 
Of  lawful  Oaths  and  Vows. 
Of  the  Civil  Magistrate. 
Of  Marriage  and  Divorce. 
Of  the  Church. 
Of  Communion  of  Saints. 
Of  the  Sacraments. 
Of  Baptism. 
Of  the  Lord's  Supper. 
Of  Church-Censures. 
Of  Synods  and  Councils. 
Of  the  State  of  Men  after  Death,  and  of  the  Rcsur- 

re&ion  of  the  Dead. 
Of  the  last  Judgment. 


THE 

CONFESSION  OF  FAITH. 


Chap.  I.    Of  the  Holy  Scripture. 

ALTHOUGH  the  light  of  nature,  and  the 
works  of  creation  and  providence,  do  so  far  ma- 
nifest the  goodness,  wisdom,  and  power  of  God, 
as  to  leave  men  inexcusable  \a  yet  are  they  not 
sufficient  to  give  that  knowledge  of  God,  and 
of  his  will,  which  is  necessary  unto  salvation  :£ 


I.  a  Rom.  ii.  14.  For  when  the  Gentiles  which  have  not  the  law, 
do  by  nature  the  things  contained  in  the  law,  these  having  not  the 
law,  are  a  law  unto  themselves,  v.  15.  Which  shew  the  work  of 
the  law  written  in  their  hearts,,  their  conscience  also  bearing  witness, 
and  their  thoughts  the  mean  while  accusing  or  else  excusing  one  an- 
other. Rom.  i.  1.9.  Because  that  which  may  be  known  of  God,  is 
manifest  in  them  ;  for  God  hath  shewed  it  unto  them.  v.  so.  For  the 
invisible  things  of  him  from  the  creation  of  the  world  are  clearly  seen, 
being  understood  by  the  things  that  are  made,  even  his  eternal  power 
and  Godhead;  so  that  they  are  without  excuse.  Psal.  xix.  1.  The 
heavens  declare  the  glory  of  God;  and  the  firmament  sheweth  his 
handy-work.  v.  2.  Day  unto  day  uttereth  speech,  and  night  unto 
night  sheweth  knowledge,  v.  3.  There  is  no  speech  nor  language, 
where  their  voice  is  not  heard.  Rom.  i.  32.  Who  knowing  the  judg- 
ment of  God,  (that  they  which  commit  such  things  are  worthy  of 
death)  not  only  do  the  same,  but  have  pleasure  in  them  that  do  them. 
With  Rom.  ii.  1.  Therefore  thou  art  inexcusable,  O  man,  whosoever 
thou  art  that  judgest ;  for  wherein  thou  judgest  another,  thou  con- 
demnest  thyself;  for  thou  that  judgest  dost  the  same  things. 

b  1  Cor.  i.  21.  For  after  that,  in  the  wisdom  of  God,  the  world 
by  wisdom  knew  not  God,  it  pleased  God  by  the  foolishness  of 
preaching  to  save  them  that  believe.  1  Cor.  ii.  13.  Which  things 
also  we  speak,  not  in  the  words  which  man's  wisdom  teacheth,  but 
which  the  Holy  Ghost  teacheth;  comparing  spiritual  things  with 
spiritual,  v.  14.  But  the  natural  man  receiveth  not  the  things  of  the 
Spirit  of  God;  for  they  are  foolishness  unto  him;  neither  can  he 
know  them,  because  they  are  spiritually  discerned. 


12  tfhe  Confession  of  Faith.  Chap.  i. 

Therefore  it  pleased  the  Lord,  at  sundry  times, 
and  in  divers  manners,  to  reveal  himself,  and  to 
declare  that  his  will  unto  his  church  ;c  and  after- 
wards, for  the  better  preserving  and  propagating 
of  the  truth,  and  for  the  more  sure  establishment 
and  comfort  of  the  church  against  the  corruption 
of  the  flesh,  and  the  malice  of  Satan  and  of  the 
world,  to  commit  the  same  wholly  unto  writing  \d 
which  maketh  the  holy  scripture  to  be  most  ne- 
cessary;^ those  former  ways  of  God's  revealing 
his  will  unto  his  people,  being  now  ceased^ 

c  Heb.  i.  i.  God — at  sundry  times,  and  in  divers  manners,  spake 
in    time  past  unto  the  fathers  by  the  prophets. 

d  Prow  xxii.  19.  That  thy  trust  may  be  in  the  Lord,  I  have  made 
known  to  thee  this  day,  even  to  thee.  v.  20.  Have  I  not  written  to 
thee  excellent  things  in  counsels  and  knowledge?  v.  21.  That  I 
might  make  thee  know  the  certainty  of  the  words  of  truth;  that  thou 
mightest  answer  the  words  of  truth  to  them  that  send  unto  thee? 
Luke  i.  3.  It  seemed  good  to  me  ali>o,  having  had  perfect  understand- 
ing of  all  things  from  the  very  first,  to  write  unto  thee,  in  Grder,  most 
excellent  Theophilus,  v.  4.  That  thou  mightest  know  the  certainty 
of  those  things  wherein  thou  hast  been  instructed.  Rom.  xv.  4. 
For  whatsoever  things  were  written  aforetime,  were  written  for  our 
learning;  that  we  through  patience  and  comfort  of  the  scriptures 
might  have  hope.  Matth.  iv.  4.  But  he  answered  and  said,  it  is 
written,  Man  shall  not  live  by  bread  alone,  but  by  every  word  that 
proceedeth  out  of  the  mouth  of  God.  v.  7.  Jesus  said  unto  him, 
It  is  written  again,  thou  shalt  not  tempt  the  Lord  thy  God.  v.  10. 
Then  saith  Jesi^  unto  him,  Get  thee  hence,  Satan:  for  it  is  written, 
Thou  shalt  worship  the  Lord  thy  God,  and  him  only  shalt  thou 
serve.  Isa.  viii.  19.  And  when  they  shall  say  unto  you,  Seek  unto 
them  that  have  familiar  spirits,  and  unto  wizards  that  peep,  and  that 
mutter:  should  not  a  people  seek  unto  their  God?  for  the  living  to 
the  dead?  v.  20.  To  the  law  and  to  the  testimony  :  if  they  speak  not 
according  to  this  word,  it  is  because  there  is  no  light  in  them. 

ez  Tim.  iii.  15.  And  that  from  a  child  thou  hast  known  the 
holy  scriptures,  which  are  able  to  make  thee  wise  unto  salvation, 
through  faith  which  is  in  Chri-c  Jesus.  2  Pet.  i.  19.  We  have  also  a 
more  sure  word  of  prophecy,  whercunto  ye  do  well  that  ye  take 
heed,  as  unto  a  light  that  shineth  in  a  dark  place,  until  the  day  dawn, 
and  the  day-star  arise  in  your  hearts. 

f  Heb.  i.  i.  God,  who  at  sundry  times,  and  in  divers  manners, 
spake  in  time  past  unto  the  fathers  by  the  prophets,  v.  2.    Hath  in 


Chap.  i.  *f  he  Confession  of  Faith.  13 

II.  Under  the  name  of  Holy  Scripture,  or  the 
word  of  God  written,  are  now  contained  all  the 
books  of  the  Old  and  New  Testament,  which 
are  these : 

Of  the  Old  Testament. 


Genesis. 

II.  Chronicles. 

Daniel. 

Exodus. 

Ezra. 

Hosea. 

Leviticus. 

Nehemiah. 

Joel. 

Numbers. 

Esther. 

Amos. 

Deuteronomy. 

Job. 

Obadiah. 

Joshua. 

Psalms. 

Jonah. 

Judges. 

Proverbs. 

Micah. 

Ruth. 

Ecclesiastes. 

Nahum. 

I.  Samuel. 

The  Song  ot  Songs. 

Habakkuk. 

II.  Samuel. 

Ifaiah. 

Zephaniah. 

I.  Kings. 

leremiah. 

Haggai. 

II.  Kings. 

Lamentations. 

Zechariah. 

I.  Chronicles. 

Oft 

Ezekiel. 

lie  New  Testami 

Malachi. 

.NT. 

The  Gospels  accor- 

Corinthians II. 

The  Epistl< 

;  to  the 

ding  to 

Galatians. 

Hebrews. 

Matthew. 

Ephesians. 

The   Epistl 

3  of 

Mark. 

Philippians. 

James. 

Luke. 

Colossians. 

The  first  and  second 

John. 

Thessalonians  I. 

Epistles  of  Peter. 

The    Ads   of 

the 

Thessalonians  II. 

The    first, 

second, 

Apostles. 

To  Timothy  I. 

and  third 

Epistles 

Paul's  Epistle  1 

0  the 

To  Timothy  II. 

of  John. 

Romans. 

To  Titus. 

The  Epistle  of  Jude. 

Corinthians  I. 

To  Philemon. 

The  Revelation. 

All  which  are  given  by  inspiration  of  God,  to 


be  the 


rule  of  faith  and  Yife.g 


these  last  days  spoken  unto  us  by  his  Son,  whom  he  hath  appointed 
heir  of  all  things,  by  whom  also  he  made  the  worlds. 

II.  g  Luke  xvi.  29.  Abraham  saith  unto  him,  They  have  Moses  and 
the  prophets;  let  them  hear  them.  v.  31.  And  he  said  unto  him,  If 
they  hear  not  Moses  and  the  prophets,  neither  will  they  be  persuaded 
tnough  one  rose  from  the  dead.     Eph.  ii.  20.  And  are  built  upon 


1 4  The  Confession  of  Faith.         Chap,  i . 

III.  The  books  commonly  called  Apocrypha, 
not  I  .  divine  inspiration,  are  no  part  of  tiie 
caooa  of  the  scripture;  and  therefore  are  of  no 
authority  in  the  Church  of  God,  nor  to  be  any 
otherwise  approved,  or  ma  of,  than  other 
human  writing  . 

IV.  The  authority  of  the  holy  scripture,  for 
which  it  ought  to  be  believed  and  obeved,  de- 
pendeth  not  upon  the  testimony  of  any  man,  or 
church;  but  wholly  upon  God  (who  is  truth  it- 
self) the  Author  thereof;  and  therefore  it  is  to  be 

-ived,  because  it  i?  the  word  of  God./ 


the  foundation  of  the  apostles  and  prop?  .  : :  Christ  himself  be- 
vie  chief  corner-stone  Rev.  xxii.  18.  For  I  testify  unto  every 
the  words  of  the  prophecy  of  this  book,  If  any  man 
shall  add  unto  these  thing-,  God  shall  add  unto  him  the  plagues  that 
are  written  in  this  book.  v.  19.  And  if  any  man  shall  take  z 
from  the  words  of  tne  book  of  this  prophecy,  God  shall  take  away 
his  piTt  out  of  the  book  of  life,  and  out  of  the  holy  c  from 

I  ,ings  which  are  written  in  this  book.    2  Tim.  hi.  16.  . 
is  given  by  inspiration  or  God,  and  is  profitable  for  doctrine, 
for  reproo;,  tor  correction,  for  instruction  in  rigbteousn 

III.  ;v    zy.  And  beginning  at  Moses,  and  all  the  pro- 
aded  unto  them,  in  all  the  scriptures,  the  things  con- 
cerning himself,    v.  44.  And  he  oi  cm,  Tnese  are  the  words 

onto  you,  whi  >u,  thnt  all  things 

.1  which  were  written  in  the  law  of  Moses,  and  in  the 

Prophets,  and  in  the  Psalms,  concerning  me.     Rom.  iii.  2.  Much 

.em  were  committed  the  ora- 
of  God.     -  Pet.  i.  2  1.   For  the  prophecy  came  not  in  old  time 
men  of  God  spake  as  they  were  moved 
I . 

IV.  19.   We  have  also  a  more  sure  word  of  prophecy, 
-eunto  ye  00  well  that  ye  take  unto  a  light  that  shineth 

ce,  until  the  day  dawn,  and  the  day-star  arise  in  your 
hearts :  v.  2 1 .   For  the  prophecy  came  not  in  old  time  by  the  » 

91  of  God  they  were  moved  by  the  Holy 

.  iii.  16.  Aii  scripture  is  given  by  inspiration  01  God, 

and  is  profitable  for  doctrine,  for  reproof,  tor  correction,  for  in- 

tion  in  rij  1  John  v.  9.  It   we  receive  the  witness 

•  of  God  is  greater:  tor  this  is  the  witness  of  God, 

I  T...:  .   :;.  15.  For  this  cause 


Chap,  i .         ^The  Confession  of  ;  I  ~ 

V.  We  may  be  moved  and  induced  by  the  tes- 
timony of  the  church,  to  an  high  and  revereiu1 
esteem  of  the  holy  scripture;/'  and  the  heaven- 
liness  of  the  matter,  the  efficacy  of  the  doctrine, 
the  majesty  of  the  stile,  the  consent  of  all  the 
parts,  the  scope  of  the  whole,  (which  is  to  give 
all  glory  to  God)  the  full  discovery  it  makes  of 
the  only  way  of  man's  salvation,  the  many  other 
incomparable  excellencies,  and  the  entire  perfec- 
tion thereof,  are  arguments  wherebv  it  doth 
abundantly  evidence  itself  to  be  the  word  of  God ; 
yet,  notwithstanding,  our  full  persuasion  and  as- 
surance of  the  infallible  truth,  and  divine  au- 
thority thereof,  is  from  the  inward  work  of  the 
Holy  Spirit,  bearing  witness  by,  and  with  the 
word  in  our  hearts./ 

also  thank  we  God  without  ceasing,  because  when  ve  received  the 
word  of  God,  which  ye  heard  of  us,  ve  received  it  not  as  the  word 
of  men,  but  (as  it  is  in  truth)  the  word  of  God,  which  effectually 
worketh  also  in  you  that  believe. 

V.  k  i  Tim.  iii.  15.  But  if  I  t3rry  long,  that  thou  mayest  know 
how  thou  oughtest  to  behave  thyself  in  the  house  of  God,  which  is 
the  church  of  the  living  God,  the  pillar  and  ground  of  the  truth. 

/  1  John  ii.  ao.  But  ye  have  an  unction  from  the  Hoiv  One,  and 
ye  know  all  things,  v.  27.  But  the  anointing  which  ye  have  receiv- 
ed of  him  abideth  in  you,  and  ye  need  not  that  any  man  teach  you : 
But  as  the  same  anointing  teacheth  you  of  all  things,  and  is  truth, 
and  is  no  lie  ;  and  even  as  it  hath  taught  vou,  ye  shall  abide  in  him. 
John  xvi.  13.  Howbeit,  when  he,  the  Spirit  of  truth,  is  come,  he 
will  guide  you  into  all  truth:  for  he  shall  not  speak  of  himself,  but 
whatsoever  he  shall  hear,  that  shall  he  speak  :  and  he  will  shew  you 
things  to  come.  v.  14.  He  shall  glorify  me  :  for  he  shall  receive  o: 
mine,  and  shall  shew  it  unto  you.  1  Cor.  ii.  io.  But  God  hath  re- 
vealed them  unto  us  by  his  Spirit:  for  the  Spirit  searcheth  all  thi 
yea,  the  deep  things  of  God.  v.  11.  For  what  man  knoweth  the 
things  of  a  man,  save  the  spirit  of  man  which  is  in  trim?  even  so 
the  things  of  God  knoweth  no  man,  but  the  Spirit  of  God.  v.  1 ; . 
Now  we  have  received,  not  the  spirit  of  the  wt  irit 

which  is  of  God;  that  we  might  know  the  things  that  are  f:\ 
given  to  us  of  God.     Is.i-  lix.  2:.     As  for  me,  this  is 
with  them,  saith  the  Lord.  My  Spirit  that  is  upon  : 


16  The  Confession  of  Faith.  Chap.  i. 

VI.  The  whole  counsel  of  God,  concerning 
all  things  necessary  for  his  own  glory,  man's 
salvation,  faith  and  life,  is  either  expressly  set 
down  in  scripture,  or  by  good  and  necessary  con- 
sequence may  be  deduced  from  scripture:  unto 
which  nothing  at  any  time  is  to  be  added,  whe- 
ther by  new  revelations  of  the  Spirit,  or  tradi- 
tions of  men.w    Nevertheless,  we  acknowledge 

...  o 

the  inward  illumination  of  the  Spirit  of  God  to 
be  necessary  for  the  saving  understanding  of 
such  things  as  are  revealed  in  the  word;#  and 
that  there  are  some  circumstances  concerning  the 
worship  of  God,  and  government  of  the  church, 
common  to  human  actions  and  societies,  which 

words  which  I  have  put  in  thy  mouth,  shall  not  depart  out  of  thy 
mouth,  nor  out  of  the  mouth  of  thy  seed,  nor  out  of  the  mouth  of 
thy  seed's  seed,  saith  the  Lord,  from  henceforth  and  tor  ever. 

VI.  m  2  Tim.  hi.  i  5.  And  that  from  a  child  thou  hast  known 
the  holy  scriptures,  which  are  able  to  make  thee  wise  unto  salvation, 
through  faith  which  is  in  Christ  Jesus,  v.  16.  All  scripture  is  given 
by  inspiration  of  Gcd,  and  is  profitable  for  doctrine,  for  reproof,  for 
correction,  for  instruction  in  righteousness,  v.  17.  That  the  man 
of  God  may  be  perfect,  throughly  furnished  unto  all  good  works. 
Gal.  i.  8.  But  though  we,  or  an  angel  from  heaven,  preach  any  other 
gospel  unto  you,  than  that  which  we  have  preached  unto  you,  let 
him  be  accursed,  v.  9.  As  we  said  before,  so  say  I  now  again;  It 
any  man  preach  any  other  gospel  unto  you,  than  that  ye  have  receiv- 
ed, let  him  be  accursed.  2  Thess.  ii.  2.  That  ye  be  not  soon  shaken 
in  mind,  or  be  troubled,  neither  by  spirit,  nor  by  word,  nor  by  let- 
ter, as  from  us,  as  that  the  day  of  Christ  is  at  hand. 

n  John  vi.  45.  It  is  written  in  the  prophets,  And  they  shall  be  all 
taught  of  God.  Every  man  therefore  thai  hath  beard,  and  hath 
learned  of  the  Father,  cometh  unto  me.  1  Cor.  ii.  9.  But  as  it  is 
written,  Eye  hath  not  seen,  nor  car  heard,  neither  have  entered  into 
the  heart  of  man,  the  things  which  God  hath  prepared  for  them  that 
love  him.  v.  10.  But  God  hath  revealed  them  unto  us  by  his  Spi- 
rit: for  the  Spirit  searcheth  all  things,  yea,  the  deep  things  of  God. 
v.  11.  For  what  man  knoweth  the  things  ol  a  n  an,  save  the  spirit 
of  man  which  is  in  him?  even  so  the  things  ot  God  knoweth  no 
man,  but  the  Spirit  of  God.     v.  12.  Now  ived,  not 

the  spirit  of  the  world,  but  the  Spirit  which  is  of  God,  that  wc 
might  know  the  things  that  ai    I  iven  to  us  of  God. 


Chap.  I .         *the  Confession  of  Faith.  X } 

are  to  be  ordered  by  the  light  of  nature  and  chris- 
tian prudence,  according  to  the  general  rules  of 
the  word,  which  are  always  to  be  observed. o 

VII.  All  things  in  scripture  are  not  alike  plain 
in  themselves,  nor  alike  clear  unto  all  \p  yet  those 
things  which  are  necessary  to  be  known,  believed, 
and  observed  for  salvation,  are  so  clearly  pro- 
pounded and  opened  in  some  place  of  scripture  or 
other,  that  not  only  the  learned,  but  the  unlearned* 
in  a  due  use  of  the  ordinary  means,  may  attain 
unto  a  sufficient  understanding  of  them.y 

VIII.  The  Old  Testament  in  Hebrew  (which 
was  the  native  language  of  the  people  of  God  of 
old),  and  the  New-Testament  in  Greek  (which  at 
the  time  of  the  writing  of  it  was  most  generally 
known  to  the  nations),  being  immediately  inspired 
by  God,  and  by  his  singular  care  and  providence 
kept  pure  in  all  ages,  are  therefore  authentical  ;r 
so  as  in  all  controversies  of  religion,  the  church 
is  finally  to  appeal  unto  them.j  But  because  these 

o  i  Cor.  xi.  13.  Judge  in  yourselves ;  is  it  comely  that_  a  woman 
pray  unto  God  uncovered  ?  v.  14.  Doth  not  even  nature  itself  teach 
you,  that  if  a  man  have  long  hair,  it  is  a  shame  unto  him  ?  1  Cor.  xiv. 
a6.  How  is  it  then,  brethren,  when  ye  come  together,  every  one 
of  you  hath  a  psalm,  hath  a  doftrine,  hath  a  tongue,  hath  a  revela- 
tion, hath  an  interpretation?  Let  all  things  be  done  unto  edifying, 
v.  40.     Let  all  things  be  done  decently  and  in  order. 

VII.  fi  2  Pet.  iii.  16.  As  also  in  all  his  epistles,  speaking  in  them 
of  these  things,  in  which  are  some  things  hard  to  be  understood, 
which  they  that  are  unlearned  and  unstable  wrest,  as  they  do  also  the 
other  scriptures  unto  their  own  destruction. 

q  Psal.  cxix.  105.  Thy  word  is  a  lamp  unto  my  feet,  and  a  light 
unto  my  path.  v.  130.  The  entrance  of  thy  words  giveth  light,  it 
giveth  understanding  unto  the  simple. 

VIII.  r  Mat.  v.  18.  For  verily  I  say  unto  you,  Till  heaven  and 
earth  pass,  one  jot,  or  one  tittle  shall  in  no  wise  pass  from  the  law, 
till  all  be  fulfilled. 

s  Isaiah  viii.  20.  To  the  law,  and  to  the  testimony  :  If  they  speak 
not  according  to  this  word,  it  is  because  there  is  no  light  in  them, 

c 


i8  I'he  Confession  of  Faith.         Chap,  i* 

original  tongues  are  not  known  to  all  the  people 
of  God,  who  have  right  unto  and  interest  in  the 
scriptures,  and  are  commanded,  in  the  fear  of 
God,  to  read  and  search  them,/  therefore  they 
are  to  be  translated  into  the  vulgar  language  of 

I'll  DO 

every  nation  unto  which  they  come,i>  that  the 
word  of  God  dwelling  plentifully  in  all,  they 
may  worship  him  in  an  acceptable  manner, w  and, 
through  patience  and  comfort  of  the  scriptures, 
may  have  hope..* 

IX.  The  infallible  rule  of  interpretation  of 
scripture,  is  the  scripture  itself;  and,  therefore, 
when  there  is  a  question  about  the  true  and  full 

Acts  xv.  15.  And  to  this  agree  the  words  of  the  prophets,  as  it  is 
written.  John  v.  39.  Search  the  scriptures,  for  in  them  ye  think  ye 
have  eternal  life,  and  they  are  they  which  testify  of  me.  v.  46.  For 
had  ye  believed  Moses,  ye  would  have  believed  me  :  for  he  wrote  of 
me. 

/  John  v.  39.  Search  the  scriptures,  for  in  them  ye  think  ye  have 
eternal  life,  and  they  are  they  which  testify  of  me. 

v  1  Cor.  xiv.  6.  Now,  brethren,  if  I  come  unto  you  speaking 
with  tongues,  what  shall  I  profit  you,  except  I  shall  speak  to  you 
cither  by  revelation,  or  by  knowledge,  or  by  prophesying,  or  by 
doctrine?  v.  9.  So  likewise  you,  except  ye  utter  by  the  tongue 
words  easy  to  be  understood,  how  shall  it  be  known  what  is  spoken? 
for  ye  shall  speak  into  the  air.  v.  1 1.  Therefore,  If  I  know  not  the 
meaning  of  the  voice,  I  shall  be  unto  him  that  speaketha  Barbarian j 
and  he  that  speaketh  shall  be  a  Barbarian  unto  me.  v.  12.  Even  so 
ye,  forasmuch  as  ye  are  zealous  of  spiritual  gifts,  seek  that  ye  may  ex- 
cel to  the  edifying  of  the  church,  v.  24.  But  if  all  prophecy,  and  there 
come  in  one  that  believeth  not,  or  one  unlearned,  he  is  convinced  of 
all,  he  is  judged  of  all.  v.  27.  Ifany  man  speak  in  an  unknown  tongue, 
let  it  be  by  two,  or  at  the  most  by  three,  and  that  by  course;  and  let 
one  interpret,  v.  28.  But  if  there  be  no  interpreter,  let  him  keep 
silence  in  the  church  ;  and  let  him  speak  to  himself,  and  to  God. 

iv  Col.  iii.  16.  Let  the  word  of  Christ  dwell  in  you  richly  in  all 
wisdom,  teaching  and  admonishing  one  another  in  psalms,  and 
hymns,  and  spiritual  songs,  singing  with  grace  in  your  hearts  to  the 
Lord. 

x  Rom.  xv.  4.  For  whatsoever  things  were  written  aforetime, 
were  written  for  our  learning  ;  that  we  through  patience  and  comfort 
of  the  scriptures  might  have  hope. 


Chap.  2,  the  Confession  of  Faith.  19 

sense  of  any  scripture  (which  is  not  manifold, 
but  one)  it  must  be  searched  and  known  by  other 
places  that  speak  more  clearly  .jy 

X.  The  supreme  Judge,  by  which  all  contro- 
versies of  religion  are  to  be  determined,  and  all 
decrees  of  councils,  opinions  of  ancient  writers, 
doctrines  of  men,  and  private  spirits,  are  to  be 
examined,  and  in  whose  sentence  we  are  to  rest ; 
can  be  no  other  but  the  Holy  Spirit  speaking  in 
the  scripture. % 

Chap.  II.    Of  Go  J,  and  of  the  Holy  trinity. 

1  HERE   is   but  one   only,#  living  and  true 
God,£  who  is  infinite  in  being  and  perfection  ;c  a 

IX.  y  %  Pet.  L,  20.  Knowing  this  first,  that  no  prophecy  of  the 
scripture  is  of  any  private  interpretation,  v.  21.  For  the  prophecy 
came  not  in  old  time  by  the  will  of  man  :  but  holy  men  of  God  spake 
as  t;hey  were  moved  by  the  Holy  Ghost.  A&s  xv.  15.  And  to  this 
agree  the  words  of  the  prophets,  as  it  is  written,  v.  16.  After  this  I 
will  return,  and  will  build  again  the  tabernacle  of  David  which,  is  fal- 
len down,  and  I  will  build  again  the  ruins'  thereof,  and  I  will  set  it  up. 

X.  z  Mat.  xxii.  29.  Jesus  answered  and  said  unto  them,  Ye  do  err, 
not  knowing  the  scriptures,  nor  the  power  of  God.  v.  31.  But  as 
touching  the  resurrection  of  the  dead,  have  ye  not  read  that  which 
was  spoken  unto  you  by  God?  Eph.  ii.  20.  And  are  built  upon  the 
foundation  of  the  Apostles  and  prophets,  Jesus  Christ  himself  being 
the  chief  corner-stoneo  With  A£ts  xxviii.  25.  And  when  they  agreed 
not  among  themselves,  they  departed,  after  that  Paul  had  spoken  one 
word,  Well  spake  the  Holy  Ghost  by  Esaias  the  prophet  unto  our  fathers. 

I.  a  Deut.  vi.  4.  Hear,  O  Israel,  the  Lord  our  God  is  one  Lord, 
j  Cor.  viii.  4.  As  concerning,  therefore,  the  eating  of  those  things  that 
are  offered  in  sacrifice  unto  idols,  we  know  that  an  idol  is  nothing  in 
the  world,  and  that  there  is  none  other  God  but  one.  v.  6.  But  to  us 
there  is  butone  God, the  Father,  of  whom  are  all  things,  and  we  in  him; 
and  one  Lord  Jesus  Christ,  by  whom  are  all  things,  and  we  by  him. 

b  1  Thess.  i.  9.  For  they  themselves  shew  of  us,  what  manner  of 
entering  in  we  had  unto  you,  and  how  ye  turned  to  God  from  idols, 
to  serve  the  living  and  true  God.  Jer.  x.  10.  But  the  Lord  is  the  true 
God,  he  is  the  living  God,  and  an  everlasting  King. 

c  Job  xi.  7.  Canst  thou  by  searching  find  out  God  ?  canst  thou  find 


T'/jc  Confession  of  Faith.  Chap.  2. 

most    pure    spirit, <Y    invisible,*?    ^^  ithout    body, 

parts./  or  passions  \g  immutable,/)  immense,/  eter- 
nal,/' incomprehensible,/  Almighty  ;m  most  wise, 

out  the  Almightv  unto  perfection  ?  v.  8.  It  is  as  high  as  heaven,  what 
canst  thou  do?  deeper  than  hell,  what  canst  thou  know  ?  v.  9.  The 
measure  thereof  is  longer  than  the  earth,  and  broader  than  the  sea. 
Job  \.wi.  14.  Lo,  these  are  parts  oi  his  ways,  but  how  little  a  portion 
is  heard  01  him?   but  the  thunder  of  his  power  who  can  understand? 

d  John  iv.  24.  God  is  a  Spirit,  and  they  that  worship  him,  must 
worship  him  in  spirit  and  in  truth. 

e  1  Tim.  i.  17.  Now  unto  the  King  eternal,  immortal,  invisible, 
the  only  wise  God,  be  honour  and  glory,  for  ever  and  ever.  Amen. 

f  Deut.  iv.  15.  Take  ye  therefore  good  heed  unto  yourselves,  (tor 
ye  saw  no  manner  of  similitude  on  the  day  that  the  Lord  spake  unto 
you  in  Horeb,  out  of  the  midst  of  the  fire)  v.  16.  Lest  ye  corrupt 
yourselves,  and  make  you  a  graven  image,  the  similitude  of  any 
figure,  the  likeness  of  male  or  female.  John  iv.  24.  God  is  a  Spirit, 
and  they  that  worship  him,  must  worship  him  in  spirit  and  in  truth. 
With  Luke  xxiV,  39.  Behold  my  hands  and  my  feet,  that  it  is  I  my- 
self: handle  me,  and  see,  for  a  spirit  hath  not  flesh  and  bones,  as  ye 
sc<  me  have. 

g  Acts  xiv.  11.  And  when  the  people  saw  what  Paul  had  done, 
they  lift  up  their  voices,  saying  in  the  speech  of  Lycaonia,  The  gods 
are  come  down  to  us  in  the  likeness  of  men.  v.  15.  And  saying, 
Sirs,  why  do  you  these  things?  We  also  are  men  of  like  passions 
you,  and  j. reach  unto  you,  that  ye  should  turn  from  these  va- 
nities unto  the  living  God,  which  made  heaven  and  earth,  and  the 
:id  all  things  that  are  therein. 

//James  i.  17.  Every  good  gift,  and  even-  perfect  gift,  is  from 
above,  and  Cometh  down  from  the  Father  of  lights,  with  whom  is 
no  variableness,  neither  shadow  of  turning.  Mai.  iii.  6.  For  I  am  the 
Lord,  I  change  not:  therefore  ye  sons  of  Jacob' are  not  consumed. 

/'  1  Kings  viii.  zy.  But  will  God  indeed  dwell  on  the  earth?  be- 
hold, the  heaven,  and  heaven  of  heavens  cannot  contain  thee,  how 
much  less  this  house  that  I  have  bnikkd?  Jer.  xxiii.  23.  Am  I  a 
God  at  hand,  saith  the  Lord,  and  not  a  God  afar  off?  v.  24.  Can 
any  hide  himself  in  secret  places,  that  I  shall  not  see  him?  saith  the 
Lord:  do  not  I  fill  heaven  and  earth?  saith  the  Lord. 

6  Fsal.  xc.  2.  iJefoie  the  mountains  were  brought  forth,  or  ever 
thou  hadst  formed  the  earth  and  the  world,  even  from  everlasting  to 
everlasting,  thou  art  God.  1  Tim.  i.  1  ;.  Now  unto  the  King  eter- 
nal, immortal,  invisible,  the  only  wise  God,  be  honour  and  glory, 
for  ever  and  ever.     Amen. 

/  Psal.  cxlv.  3.  Great  is  the  Lord,  and  greatly  to  be  praised;  and 
his  greatness  is  uns< 

>n  Gen.  wii.  1.  And  when  Abram  wni  irs  old  mu\  nine, 

the  Lord  -and  said  unto  him,  J  am  the  Almighty 


Chap.  2.         rfhe  Confession  of  Faith.  21 

n  most  holy,o  most  free,^>  most  absolute,^  working 
all  things  according  to  the  counsel  of  his  own  im- 
mutable and  most  righteous  will/"  for  his  own  glo- 
ry;/ most  loving,/ gracious,  merciful,  long-suffer- 
ing, abundant  in  goodness  and  truth,  forgiving  in- 
iquity, transgression  and  sin  pu  the  rewarder  of 
them  that  diligently  feek  him  ;w  and  withal  most 
just  and   terrible  in  his  judgments, #  hating  all 

God:  walk  before  me,  and  be  thou  perfect.  Rev.  iv.  8.  And  the 
four  beasts  had  each  of  them  six  wings  about  him,  and  they  were 
full  of  eyes  within,  and  they  rest  not  day  and  night,  saying,  Holy, 
holy,  holy  Lord  God  Almighty,  which  was,  and  is,  and  is  to  come. 

n  Rom.  xvi.  27.  To  God  only  wise,  be  glory  through  Jesus 
Christ,  for  ever.     Amen. 

0  Isa.  vi.  3.  And  one  cried  unto  another,  and  said,  Holy,  holy, 
holy  is  the  Lord  of  hosts,  the  whole  earth  is  full  of  his  glory.  Rev. 
\v.  8    (See  letter  m  immediately  foregoing.) 

Ji  Psal.  cxv.  3.  But  our  God  is  in  the  heavens:  he  hath  done 
whatsoever  he  pleaseth. 

q  Exod.  iii.  14.  And  God  said  unto  Moses,  I  AM  THAT  I 
AM:  And  he  said,  Thus  shalt  thou  say  unto  the  children  of  Israel, 
I  AM  hath  sent  me  unto  you. 

r  Eph.  i.  n.  In  whom  also  we  have  obtained  an  inheritance, 
being  predestinated  according  to  the  purpose  of  him,  who  worketh 
all  tilings  alter  the  counsel  of  his  own  will. 

j-  Prov.  xvi.  4.  The  Lord  hath  made  all  things  for  himself:  yea, 
even  the  wicked  for  the  day  of  evil.  Rom.  xi.  36.  For  of  him,  and 
through  him,  and  to  him  are  all  things;  to  whom  be  glory  for  ever. 
Amen. 

t  1  John  iv.  8.  He  that  loveth  not,  knoweth  not  God,  for  God 
is  love.  v.  16.  And  we  have  known  and  believed  the  love  that  God 
hath  to  us.  God  is  love;  and  he  that  dwelleth  in  love,  dwelleth  in 
God,  and  God  in  him. 

v  Exod.  xxxiv.  6.  And  the  Lord  passed  by  before  him,  and 
proclaimed,  The  Lord,  the  Lord  God,  merciful  and  gracious,  long- 
suffering,  and  abundant  in  goodness  and  truth,  v.  7.  Keeping  mercy 
for  thousands,  forgiving  iniquity,  and  transgression,  and  sin,  and 
that  will  by  no  means  clear  the  guilty;  visiting  the  iniquity  of  the 
fathers  upon  the  children,  and  upon  the  children's  children,  unto  the 
third  and  to  the  fourth  generation. 

10  Heb.  xi.  6.  But  without  faith  it  is  impossible  to  please  him : 
for  he  that  cometh  to  God,  must  believe  that  he  is,  and  that  he  is  a 
rewarder  of  them  that  diligently  seek  him. 

x  Neh.  ix.  32.  Now  therefore,  our  God,  the  great,  the  mighty, 


so  7 'he  Confession  of Faith.  Chap.  a. 

most  pure  spirit,^  invisible,*  without  body, 
parts,/  or  passions;^  immutable,/)  immense,/  eter- 
nal,/' incomprehensible,/  Almighty  ;m  most  wise, 

out  the  Almighty  unto  perfection?  v.  8.  It  is  as  high  as  heaven,  what 
canst  thou  eh)?  deeper  than  hell,  what  canst  thou  know  ?  v.  9.  The 
measure  thereof  is  longer  than  the  earth,  and  broader  than  the  sea. 
Job  x.wi.  14.  Lo,  these  are  parts  of  his  ways,  but  how  little  a  portion 
is  heard  of  him?   but  the  thunder  of  his  power  who  can  understand? 

d  John  iv.  24.  God  is  a  Spirit,  and  they  that  worship  him,  must 
worship  him  in  spirit  and  in  truth. 

e  1  Tim.  i.  17.  Now  unto  the  King  eternal,  immortal,  invisible, 
the  only  wise  God,  be  honour  and  glory,  for  ever  and  ever.  Amen. 

f  Deut.  iv.  15.  Take  ye  therefore  good  heed  unto  yourselves,  (for 
ye  saw  no  manner  of  similitude  on  the  day  that  the  Lord  spake  unto 
you  in  Horeb,  out  of  the  midst  of  the  fire)  v.  16.  Lest  ye  corrupt 
yourselves,  and  make  you  a  graven  image,  the  similitude  of  any 
figure,  the  likeness  of  maie  or  female.  John  iv.  24.  God  is  a  Spirit, 
and  they  that  worship  him,  must  worship  him  in  spirit  and  in  truth. 
With  Luke  xxiv.  39.  Behold  my  hands  and  my  feet,  that  it  is  I  my- 
self: handle  me,  and  see,  for  a  spirit  hath  not  flesh  and  bones,  as  ye 
see  me  have. 

g  Acts  xiv.  11.  And  when  the  people  saw  what  Paul  had  done, 
they  lilt  up  their  voices,  saying  in  the  speech  of  Lycaonia,  The  gods 
are  come  down  to  us  in  the  likeness  of  men.  v.  15.  And  saying, 
Sirs,  why  cio  you  these  things?  We  also  are  men  of  like  passions 
with  yon,  and  preach  unco  you,  that  ye  should  turn  from  these  va- 
nities unto  the  living  God,  which  made  heaven  and  earth,  and  the 
sea,  and  all  things  that  are  therein. 

h  James  i.  1 7.  Every  good  gift,  and  every  perfect  gift,  is  from 
above,  and  cometh  down  from  the  Father  of  lights  with  whom  is 
no  variableness,  neither  shadow  of  turning.  Mai.  hi.  6.  For  I  am  the 
Lord,  I  change  not:  therefore  ye  sons  of  Jacob'are  not  consumed. 

i  1  Kings  viii.  27.  But  will  God  indeed  dwell  on  the  earth?  be- 
hold, the  heaven,  and  heaven  of  heavens  cannot  contain  thee,  how 
much  less  this  house  that  I  have  builded?  Jer.  xxiii.  23.  Am  I  a 
God  at  hand,  saith  the  Lord,  and  not  a  God  afar  off?  v.  24.  Can 
any  hide  himself  in  secret  places,  that  I  shall  not  see  him?  saith  the 
Lord:  do  not  I  fill  heaven  and  earth?   saith  the  Lord. 

k  Psal.  xc.  2.  Before  the  mountains  were  brought  forth,  or  ever 
thou  hadst  formed  the  earth  and  the  world,  even  from  everlasting  to 
everlasting,  thou  art  God.  1  Tim.  i.  17.  Now  unto  the  King  eter- 
nal, immortal,  invisible,  the  only  wise  God,  be  honour  and  glory, 
for  ever  and  ever.     Amen. 

/  Psal.  cxlv.  3.  Great  is  the  Lord,  and  greatly  to  be  praised;  and 
his  greatness  is  unseare liable. 

;.v  Gen.  wii.  1.  And  when  Abtam  was  ninety  years  old  and  nine, 
the  Lord  appeared  to  Abiam,  and  said  unto  him,  I  am  the  Almighty 


Chap.  2.         The  Confession  of  Faith.  21 

n  most  holy,o  most  free,p  most  absolute,^  working 
all  things  according  to  the  counsel  of  his  own  im- 
mutable and  most  righteous  wi!l,r  for  his  own  glo- 
ry ;j  most  loving,/ gracious,  merciful,  long-suffer- 
ing, abundant  in  goodness  and  truth,  forgiving  in- 
iquity, transgression  and  sin  \v  the  rewarder  of 
them  that  diligently  feek  him  ;w  and  withal  most 
just  and   terrible  in  his  judgments,^  hating  all 

God:  walk  before  me,  and  be  thou  perfect.  Rev.  iv.  8.  And  the 
four  beasts  had  each  of  them  six  wings  about  him,  and  they  were 
full  of  eyes  within,  and  they  rest  not  day  and  night,  saying,  Holy, 
holy,  holy  Lord  God  Almighty,  which  was,  and  is,  and  is  to  come. 

n  Rom.  xvi.  27.  To  God  only  wise,  be  glory  through  Jesus 
Christ,  for  ever.     Amen. 

0  Isa.  vi.  3.  And  one  cried  unto  another,  and  said,  Holy,  holy, 
holy  is  the  Lord  of  hosts,  the  whole  earth  is  full  of  his  glory.  Rev. 
iv.  8    (See  letter  m  immediately  foregoing.) 

Ji  Psal.  cxv.  3.  But  our  God  is  in  the  heavens:  he  hath  done 
whatsoever  he  pleaseth. 

q  Exod.  iii.  14.  And  God  said  unto  Moses,  I  AM  THAT  I 
AM:  And  he  said,  Thus  shalt  thou  say  unto  the  children  of  Israel, 
I  AM  hath  sent  me  unto  you. 

r  Eph.  5.  11.  In  whom  also  we  have  obtained  an  inheritance, 
being  predestinated  according  to  the  purpose  of  him,  who  worketh 
all  tilings  after  the  counsel  of  his  own  will. 

s  Prov.  xvi.  4.  The  Lord  hath  made  all  things  for  himself:  yea, 
even  the  wicked  for  the  day  of  evil.  Rom.  xi.  36.  For  of  him,  and 
through  him,  and  to  him  are  all  things;  to  whom  be  glory  for  ever. 
Amen. 

t  1  John  iv.  8.  He  that  loveth  not,  knoweth  not  God,  for  God 
is  love.  v.  16.  And  we  have  known  and  believed  the  love  that  God 
hath  to  us.  God  is  love;  and  he  that  dvvelleth  in  love,  dwelleth  in 
God,  and  God  in  him. 

v  Exod.  xxxiv.  6.  And  the  Lord  passed  by  before  him,  and 
proclaimed,  The  Lord,  the  Lord  God,  mercitui  and  gracious,  long- 
suffering,  and  abundant  in  goodness  and  truth,  v.  7.  Keeping  mercy 
for  thousands,  forgiving  iniquity,  and  transgression,  and  sin,  and 
that  will  by  no  means  clear  the  guilty;  visiting  the  iniquity  of  the 
fathers  upon  the  children,  and  upon  the  children's  children,  unto  the 
third  and  to  the  fourth  generation. 

iv  Heb.  xi.  6.  But  without  faith  it  is  impossible  to  please  him : 
for  he  that  cometh  to  God,  must  believe  that  he  is,  and  that  he  is  a 
rewarder  of  them  that  diligently  seek  him. 

x  Neh.  ix.  32.  Now  therefore,  our  God,  the  great,  the  mighty, 


24  The  Confession  of  Faith.         Chap.  2, 

men,  and  every  other  creature,  whatsoever  wor- 
ship, service,  or  obedience  he  is  pleased  to  require 
of  them./* 

III.  In  the  unity  of  the  Godhead  there  be  three 
persons,  of  one  substance,  power  and  eternity : 
God  the  Father,  God  the  Son,  and  God  the  Holy 
Ghost.o  The  Father  is  of  none,  neither  begot- 
ten nor  proceeding  :  The  Son  is  eternally  begot- 
ten of  the  Father:/*  the  Holy  Ghost  eternally 
proceeding  from  the  Father  and  the  Son.y 


n  Rev.  v.  12.  Saying  with  a  loud  voice,  Worthy  is  the  Lamb  that 
was  slain,  to  receive  power,  and  riches,  and  wisdom,  and  strength, 
and  honour,  and  glory,  and  blessing,  v.  13.  And  every  creature 
which  is  in  heaven,  and  on  the  earth,  and  under  the  earthy  and 
such  as  are  in  the  sea,  and  all  that  are  in  them,  hear!  I,  ^avi;i^,  Bles- 
sing, and  honour,  and  glory,  and  power  be  unto  nun  that  sitteth 
upon  the  throne,  and  unto  the  Lamb  for  ever  and  eve;,  v.  14.  And 
the  tour  beasts  said,  Amen.  And  the  four  and  t$n  aty  cJers  fell 
down  and  worshipped  him  that  liveth  for  ever  and  t^er. 

III.  0  1  John  v.  7.  For  there  are  three  that  bear  record  in  heaven, 
the  Father,  the  Word,  and  the  Holy  Ghost:  and  these  three  are  one: 
Mat.  iii.  16.  And  Jesus,  when  he  was  baptized,  went  up  straigiiiw  ay 
out  of  the  water:  and  lo,  the  heavens  were  opened  unto  him,  and  he 
saw  the  Spirit  of  God  descending  like  a  dove,  and  lighting  upon 
him.  v.  1  7.  And  lo,  a  voice  from  heaven,  saying,  This  is  my  be- 
loved Son,  in  whom  I  am  well  pleased.  Mat.  xxviii.  19.  Go  ve 
therefore  and  teach  all  nations,  baptizing  them  in  the  name  of  the 
Father,  and  of  the  Son,  and  of  the  Holy  Ghost.  2  Cor.  xiii.  14. 
The  grace  of  the  Lord  Jesus  Christ,  and  the  love  of  God,  and  the 
communion  of  the  Holy  Ghost,  be  with  you  all.     Amen. 

Ji  John  i.  14.  And  the  Word  was  made  flesh,  and  dwelt  among  us, 
(and  we  behold  his  glory,  the  glory  as  of  the  only  begotten  of  the 
Father)  full  of  grace  and  truth,  v.  iS.  No  man  hath  seen  God  at 
any  time;  the  only  begotten  Son,  which  is  in  the  bobom  of  the  Fa- 
ther, he  hath  declared  him. 

q  John  xv.  26.  But  when  the  Comforter  is  come,  whom  I  will 
send  unto  you  from  the  Father,  even  the  Spirit  of  truth,  which  pro- 
eeedeth  from  the  Father,  he  shall  testify  of  me.  Gal.  iv.  6.  And 
because  ye  arc  sons,  God  hath  sent  forth  the  Spirit  of  his  Son  into 
your  hearts,  crying,  Abba,  lather. 


(     25     ) 


Chap.  IIL    Of  God's  Eternal  Decree. 

VJOD  from  all  eternity  did,  by  the  most  wise 
and  holy  counsel  of  his  own  will,  freely  and  un- 
changeably ordain  whatsoever  comes  to  pass:# 
vet  so,  as  thereby  neither  is  God  the  author  of 
sin,^  nor  is  violence  offered  to  the  will  of  the  crea- 
tures, nor  is  the  liberty  or  contingency  of  second 
causes  taken  away,  but  rather  established.^ 
It.  Although  God  knows  whatsoever  may  or 

I.  a  Eph.  i.  1 1.  In  whom  also  we  have  obtained  an  inheritance, 
being  predestinated  according  to  the  purpose  of  him  who  worketfi 
all  things  after  the  counsel  of  his  own  will.  Rom.  xi.  33.  O  the 
depth  of  the  riches,  both  of  the  wisdom  and  knowledge  of  God! 
how  unsearchable  are  his  judgments,  and  his  ways  past  finding  out! 
Heb.  vi.  17.  Wherein  God  wiiling  more  abundantly  to  shew  unto 
the  heirs  of  promise  the  immutability  of  his  counsel,  confirmed  it  by 
an  oath.  Rom.  ix.  15.  For  he  saith  to  Moses,  I  will  have  mercy 
on  whom  I  will  have  mercy,  and  I  will  have  compassion  on  whom 
I  will  have  compassion,  v.  18.  Therefore  hath  he  mercy  on  whom 
he  will  have  mercy,  and  whom  he  will,  he  hardeneth. 

b  James  i.  13.  Let  no  man  say  when  he  is  tempted,  I  am  tempted 
of  God:  for  God  cannot  be  tempted  with  evil,  neither  tempteth  he 
any  man.  v.  1  7.  Every  good  gift,  and  every  perfect  gift  is  from 
above,  and  cometh  down  from  the  Father  of  lights,  with  whom  is 
no  variableness,  neither  shadow  of  turning.  1  John  i.  5.  This  then 
is  the  message  which  we  have  heard  of  him,  and  declare  unto  you  j 
that  God  is  light,  and  in  him  is  no  darkness  at  all. 

c  Acts  ii.  23.  Him,  being  delivered  by  the  determinate  counsel 
and  fore-knowledge  of  God,  ye  have  taken,  and  by  wicked  hands 
have  crucified  and  slain.  Mat.  xvii.  12.  But  I  say  unto  you,  That 
Elias  is  come  already,  and  they  knew  him  not,  but  have  done  unto 
him  whatsoever  they  listed :  likewise  shall  also  the  Son  of  man  suffer 
of  them.  Acts  iv/27.  For  of  a  truth,  against  thy  holy  child  Jesus, 
whom  thou  hast  anointed,  both  Herod  and  Pontius  Pilate,  with  the 
Gentiles  and  the  people  of  Israel,  were  gathered  together,  v.  28.  For 
to  do  whatsover  thy  hand  and  thy  counsel  determined  before  to  be 
done.  John  xix.  1  r.  Jesus  answered,  Thou  oouldest  have  no  power 
at  all  against  me,  except  it  were  given  thee  from  above:  therefore  he 
that  delivered  ir.e  unto  thee  hath  the  greater  sin.  Prov.  xvi.  33.  The 
lot  is  cast  into  the  lap;  but  the  whole  disposing  thereof  i^  of  the  Lord; 

D 


26  7 'he  Confession  of 'Faith.         Chap.  3. 

can  come  to  pass  upon  all  supposed  conditions;^ 
yet  hath  he  not  decreed  any  thing  because  he 
foresaw  it  as  future,  or  as  that  which  would  come 
to  pass  upon  such  conditions. ^ 

III.  By  the  decree  of  God,  for  the  manifesta- 
tion of  his  glory,  some  men  and  angels^  are  pre- 
destinated unto  everlasting  life,  and  others  fore- 
ordained to  everlasting  death.g 

II.  JAftsxv.  18.  Known  unto  God  are  all  his  works  from  the  be- 
ginning of  the  world,  i  Sam.  xxiii.  1 1 .  Will  the  men  of  Keilah  deli- 
ver me  up  into  his  hand  ?  Will  Saul  come  down,  as  thy  servant  hath 
heard  ?  O  Lord  God  of  Israel,  I  beseech  thee,  tell  thy  servant.  And 
the  Lord  said,  He  will  comedown,  v.  12.  Then  said  David,  Will  the 
men  ol  Keilah  deliver  me  and  my  men  into  the  hand  of  Saul  ?  And 
the  Lord  said,  they  will  deliver  thee  up.  Mat.  xi.  21.  Wo  unto 
thee  Chorazin ;  wo  unto  thee  Bethsaida:  for  if  the  mighty  works 
which  were  done  in  you,  had  been  done  in  Tyre  and  Sidon,  they 
would  have  repented  long  ago  in  sackcloth  and  ashes,  v.  23.  And 
thou,  Capernaum,  which  art  exalted  unto  heaven,  shalt  be  brought 
down  to  hell:  for  if  the  mighty  works  which  have  been  done  in  thee, 
had  been  done  in  Sodom,  it  would  have  remained  until  this  day. 

e  Rom.  ix.  11.  For  the  children  being  not  yet  born,  neither  hav- 
ing done  any  good  or  evil,  that  the  purpose  of  God  according  to 
election  might  stand,  not  of  works,  but  of  him  that  calleth.  v.  13. 
As  it  is  written,  Jacob  have  I  loved,  but  Esau  have  I  hated,  v.  16. 
So  then,  it  is  not  of  him  that  willeth,  nor  of  him  that  runneth,  but  of 
God  that  sheweth  mercy,  v.  18.  Therefore  hath  he  mercy  on 
whom  he  will  have  mercy,  and  whom  he  will,  he  hardened). 

III.  f  1  Tim.  v.  21.  I  charge  thee  before  God  and  the  Lord  Jesus 
Christ,  and  the  elect  angels,  that  thou  observe  these  things,  without 
preferring  one  before  another,  doing  nothing  by  partiality.  Mat. 
xxv.  41.  Then  shall  he  say  also  unto  them  on  the  left  hand,  Depart 
from  me,  ye  curbed,  into  everlasting  fire,  prepared  lor  the  devil  and 
his  angels. 

g  Rom.  ix.  22.  What  if  God,  willing  to  shew  his  wrath,  and  to 
make  his  power  known,  endured  with  much  long-suffering  the  ves- 
sels of  wrath  fitted  to  destruction,  v.  23.  And  that  he  might  make 
known  the  riches  of  his  glorv  on  the  vessels  of  mercy,  which  he  had 
afore  prepared  unto  glory?  Eph.  i.  5.  Having  predestinated  us  unto 
the  adoption  of  children  by  Jesus  Christ  to  himself,  according  to  the 
good  pleasure  of  his  will,  v.  6.  To  the  praise  of  the  glory  of  his 
grace,  wherein  he  hath  made  us  accepted  in  the  beloved.  l'rov.  wi. 
4.  The  Lord  hath  made  all  things  for  himself:  yea,  even  the  wicked 
for  the  day  of  evil. 


Chap .  3 .         tfhe  Confession  of  Faith,  2  y 

IV.  These  angels  and  men,  thus  predestinat- 
ed and  fore-ordained,  are  particularly  and  un- 
changeably designed;  and  their  number  is'  so 
certain  and  definite,  that  it  cannot  be  either  in- 
creased or  diminished. h 

V.  Those  of  mankind  that  are  predestinated 
unto  life,  God,  before  the  foundation  of  the 
world  was  laid,  according  to  his  eternal  and  im- 
mutable purpose,  and  the  secret  counsel  and  good 
pleasure  of  his  will,  hath  chosen  in  Christ,  unto 
everlasting  glory,/  out  of  his  mere  free  grace  and 
love,  without  any  foresight  of  faith,  or  good 
works,  or  perseverance  in  either  of  them,  or  any 
other  thing  in  the  creature,  as  conditions,  or 
causes  moving  him  thereunto  \k  and  all  to  the 
praise  of  his  glorious  grace./ 

IV.  //  2  Tim.  ii.  19.  Nevertheless,  the  foundation  of  God  stand- 
eth  sure,  having  this  seal,  The  Lord  knoweth  them  that  are  his. 
And,  Let  every  one  that  nameth  the  name  of  Christ  depart  from  ini- 
quity. John  xiii.  18.  "I  speak  not  of  you  all ;  I  know  whom  I  have 
chosen;  but  that  the  Scripture  may  be  fulfilled,  He  that  eateth  bread 
with  me,  hath  lift  up  his  heel  against  me. 

V.  i  Eph.  i.  4.  According  as  he  hath  chosen  us  in  him,  before  the 
foundation  of  the  world,  that  we  should  be  holy,  and  without  blame 
before  him  in  love:  v.  9.  Having  made  known  unto  us  the  mystery 
of  his  will,  according  to  his  good  pleasure,  which  he  hath  purposed 
in  himself:  v.  11.  In  whom  also  we  have  obtained  an  inheritance, 
being  predestinated  according  to  the  purpose  of  him,  who  worketh 
all  things  after  the  counsel  of  his  own  will.  Rom.  viii.  30.  More- 
over, whom  he  did  predestinate,  them  he  also  called:  and  whom  he 
called,  them  he  also  justified :  and  whom  he  justified,  them  he  also 
glorified.  2  Tim.  i.  9.  Who  hath  saved  us,  and  called  us  with  an 
holy  calling,  not  according  to  our  works,  but  according  to  his  own 
purpose  and  grace,  which  was  given  us  in  Christ  Jesus,  before  the 
world  began,  1  Thess.  v.  9.  For  God  hath  not  appointed  us  to 
wrath  ;  but  to  obtain  salvation  by  our  Lord  Jesus  Christ. 

k  Rom.  ix.  11,  13,  16.  (See  letter  e  immediately  foregoing,) 
Eph.  i.  4.  9.  (See  letter  i  immediately  foregoing,) 

/  Eph.  i.  6.  To  the  praise  of  the  glory  of  his  grace,  wherein  he 
hath*made  us  accepted  in  the  beloved,  v.  12.  That  we  should  be  to 
the  praise  of  his  glory,  who  first  trusted  in  Christ. 


28  T'he  Confession  of  Faith.  Chap.  3. 

VI.  As  God  hath  appointed  the  cleft  unto  glo- 
ry, so  hath  he,  by  the  eternal  and  most  free  pur- 
pose of  his  will,  fore-ordained  all  the  means 
thereunto.;;;  Wherefore  they  who  are  elecled, 
being  fallen  in  Adam,  are  redeemed  by  Christ,^ 
are  effectually  called  unto  faith  in  Christ,  bv  his 
Spirit  working  in  due  season;  are  justified,  adopt- 
ed, sanctified, 0  and  kept  by  his  power  through 
faith  unto  salvation.^  Neither  are  any  other  re- 
deemed by  Christ,  effectually  called,  justified, 
adopted,  san6titied  and  saved,  but  the  elecl  oiAy.q 

VI.  w  1  Pet.  \.  3.  Ele«5t  according  to  the  fore-knowledge  cf  God 
the  Father,  through  sanctification  or  the  Spirit  unto  obedience,  and 
sprinkling  of  the  blood  of  Jesus  Christ.  Eph.  i.  4.  According  as 
Jit  hath  chosen  us  in  him,  before  the  foundation  of  the  world,  that 
we  should  be  holy,  and  without  blame  before  him  in  lGve :  v.  5. 
Having  predestinated  us  unto  the  adoption  of  children  by  Jesus 
Christ  to  himself,  according  to  the  good  pleasure  of  his  will.  Eph. 
ii.  10.  For  we  are  his  workmanship,  created  in  Christ  Jesus  unto 
good  works,  which  God  hath  belore  ordained  that  we  should  walk  in 
the  m.  2  Thess.  ii.  1  3.  But  we  are  bound  to  give  thanks  alway  to 
God  for  you,  brethren,  beloved  of  me  Lord,  because  God  hath 
from  the  beginning  chosen  you  to  salvation,  through  sanctification  of 
the  Spii  it  and  belief  of  the  truth. 

11  1  Thess.  v.  g.  For  God  hath  not  appointed  us  to  wrath,  but  to 
obtain  salvation  by  our  Lord  Jesus  Christ;  v.  10.  Who  died  for  us, 
that  whether  we  wake  or  sleep,  we  should  live  together  with  him. 
Tit.  ii.  14.  Who  gave  himself  for  us,  that  he  might  redeem  us  from 
all  iniquity,  and  purify  unto  himself  a  peculiar  people,  zealous  of 
good  works. 

0  Rom.  viii.  30.  Moreover,  whom  he  did  predestinate,  them  he 
also  called  :  and  whom  he  called,  them  he  also  justified  :  and  whom 
he  justified,  them  he  also  glorified.  Eph.  i.  5.  Having  predestinated 
US  unto  the  adoption  ot  children  by  Jesus  Christ  to  himself,  accord- 
ing to  the  good  pleasure  of  Ins  will.  2  Thess.  ii.  13.  But  we  are 
bound  to  give  thank  •  alway  to  God  tor  you,  brethren,  beloved  of  the 
Lord,  because  God  hath  from  the  beginning  chosen  vou  to  salvation, 
through  sanftification  of  the  Spirit,  and  belief  ot  the  truth. 

ft  1  Pet.  i.  5.  Who  are  kept  by  the  power  of  God  through  faith 
Urtto  salvation,  ready  to  be  revealed  in  the  last  time. 

q  John  x v i i .  9.  I  pray  for  them:  I  pray  not  for  the  world,  but  for 
them  which  thou  hast  given  me,  tor  (be)  are  thine-  Rom.  viii.  iS. 
And  we  know  that  all  things  work  together  for  good,  to  them  that 


Cnap.  3.  'f he  Confession  of  Faith.  .29 

VII.  The  rest  of  mankind,  God  was  pleased, 
according  to  the  unsearchable  counsel  of  his  own 
will,  whereby  he  extendeth  or  withholdeth  mer- 
cy as  he  pleaseth,  for  the  glory  of  his  sovereign 
power  over  his  creatures,  to  pass  by,  and  to  or- 
dain them  to  dishonour  and  wrath  for  their  sin, 
to  the  praise  of  his  glorious  justice. r 

VIII.  The  doctrine  of  this  high  mystery  of 

love  God,  to  them  who  are  the  called  according  to  his  purpose,  &c. 
(to  the  end  of  the  chapter.)  John  vi.  64.  But  there  are  some  of  you 
that  believe  not.  For  Jesus  knew  from  the  beginning,  who  they 
were  that  believed  not,  and  who  should  betray  him.  v.  65.  And  he 
said,  Therefore  said  I  unto  you,  that  no  man  can  come  unto  me, 
except  it  were  given  unto  him  of  my  Father.  John  x.  26.  But  ye 
believe  not,  because  ye  are  not  of  my  sheep,  as  I  said  unto  you. 
John  viii.  47.  He  that  is  of  God,  heareth  God's  words :  ye  therefore 
hear  them  not,  because  ye  are  not  of  God.  1  John  ii.  19.  They 
went  out  from  us,  but  they  were  not  of  us :  for  if  they  had  been  of 
us,  they  would  no  doubt  have  continued  with  us;  but  they  went  out, 
that  they  might  be  made  manifest,  that  they  were  not  all  of  us. 

VII.  r  Mat.  xi.  25.  At  that  time  Jesus  answered  and  said,  I  thank 
thee,  O  Father,  Lord  of  heaven  and  earth,  because  thou  hast  hid 
these  things  from  the  wise  and  prudent,  and  hast  revealed  them  unto 
babes,  v.  26.  Even  so,  Father,  for  so  it  seemed  good  in  thy  sight. 
Rom.  ix.  1  7.  For  the  Scripture  saith  unto  Pharaoh,  Even  for  this 
same  purpose  have  I  raised  thee  up,  that  I  might  shew  my  power  in 
thee,  and  that  my  name  might  be  declared  throughout  all  the  earth, 
v.  1 8.  Therefore  hath  he  mercy  on  whom  he  will  have  mercy,  and 
whom  he  will  he  hardeneth.  v.  21.  Hath  not  the  potter  power  over 
the  clay,  of  the  same  lump  to  make  one  vessel  unto  honour,  and  ano- 
ther unto  dishonour  ?  v.  22.  What  if  God,  willing  to  shew  his  wrath, 
and  to  make  his  power  known,  endured  with  much  long-suffering 
the  vessels  of  wrath  fitted  to  destruction?  2  Tim.  ii.  19.  Neverthe- 
less, the  foundation  of  God  standeth  sure,  having  this  seal,  The  Lord 
knoweth  them  that  are  his.  And,  Let  every  one  that  nameth  the 
name  of  Christ  depart  from  iniquity,  v.  20.  But  in  a  great  house, 
there  are  not  only  vessels  of  gold  and  of  silver,  but  also  of  wood,  and 
of  earth;  and  some  to  honour,  and  some  to  dishonour.  Jude  i.  4. 
For  there  are  certain  men  crept  in  unawares,  who  were  before  of  old 
ordained  to  this  condemnation,  ungodly  men,  turning  the  grace  of 
our  God  into  lasciviousness,  and  denying  the  only  Lord  God,  and 
our  Lord  Jesus  Christ.  1  Pet.  ii.  8.  And  a  stone  of  stumbling,  and 
a  rock  of  offence,  even  to  them  which  stumble  at  the  word,  being 
disobedient,  w hereunto  also  they  were  appointed. 


30  'the  Confession  of  Faith.  Chap.  4. 

predestination  is  to  be  handled  with  special  pru- 
dence and  care,j  that  men  attending  the  will  of 
God  revealed  in  his  word,  and  yielding  obedience 
thereunto,  may,  from  the  certainty  of  their  ef- 
feclual  vocation,  be  assured  of  their  eternal  elec- 
tion./ So  shall  this  doctrine  afford  matter  of  praise, 
reverence  and  admiration  of  God;i;  and  of  hu- 
mility, diligence,  and  abundant  consolation  to 
all  that  sincerely  obey  the  gospel.w 


Chap.  IV.     Of  Creation. 

±T  pleased    God    the    Father,   S,on,  and   Holy 
Ghost,«  for  the  manifestation  of  the  glory  of  his 

VIII.  s  Rom.  ix.  20.  Nay  but,  O  man,  who  art  thou  that  re- 
pliest  against  God?  shall  the  thing  formed  say  to  him  that  formed  it, 
Why  hast  thou  made  me  thus?  Rom.  xi.  33.  O  the  depth  of  the 
riches  both  of  the  wisdom  and  knowledge  of  God?  how  unsearch- 
able are  his  judgments,  and  his  ways  past  finding  out!  Deut.  xxix. 
29.  The  secret  things  belong  unto  the  Lord  our  God:  but  those 
things  which  are  revealed  belong  unto  us,  and  to  our  children  for 
ever,  that  we  may  do  all  the  words  of  this  law. 

/  2  Pet.  i.  10.  Wherefore  the  rather,  brethren,  give  all  diligence 
to  make  your  calling  and  election  sure:  for  if  ye  do  these  things,  ye 
shall  never  fall. 

v  Eph.  i.  6.  To  the  praise  of  the  glory  of  his  grace,  wherein  he 
hath  made  us  accepted  in  the  Beloved.  Rom.  xi.  33.  ^See  letter j 
immediately  foregoing.) 

to  Rom.  xi.  5.  Even  so  then  at  this  present  time  also  there  is  a 
remnant  according  to  the  election  of  grace,  v.  6.  And  if  by  grace, 
then  is  it  no  more  of  works :  otherwise  grace  is  no  more  grace.  But 
if  it  be  of  works,  then  it  is  no  more  grace:  otherwise  work  is  no 
more  work.  v.  20.  Well;  because  of  unbelief  they  were  broken 
off,  and  thou  standest  by  faith.  Be  not  high  minded,  but  tear.  2  Pe- 
ter i.  10.  (See  letter/ immediately  foregoing.)  Rom.  viii.  33.  Who 
shall  lay  any  thing  to  the  charge  of  Goci's  elect  ?  it  is  God  that  justi- 
ricth.  Luke  x.  20.  Notu  ithstanding,  in  this  rejoice  not,  that  the  spi- 
rits are  subject:  unto  you  :  but  rather  rejoice  because  your  names  are 
written  in  heaven. 

I.  n  Heb.  i.  1,  2.  God — hath  in  these  last  days,  spoken  unto  us 
by  his  Son,  whom  he  hath  appointed  Heir  of  all  things,  by  whom 


C^ap.  4.         fhe  Confession  of  Faith,  3 1 

eternal  power,  wisdom,  and  goodness,^  in  the  be- 
ginning to  create,  or  make  of  nothing,  the  world, 
and  all  things  therein,  whether  visible  or  invisible, 
in  the  space  of  six  days,  and  all  very  good.* 

II.  After  God  had  made  all  other  creatures, 
he  created  man,  male  and  female, d  with  reason- 
able and  immortal  souls,*  endued  with  know- 
ledge, righteousness,  and  true  holiness,  after  his 

also  he  made  the  worlds.  John  i.  2.  The  same  was  in  the  beginning 
with  God.  v.  3.  All  things  were  made  by  him;  and  without  him 
was  not  any  thing  made,  that  was  made.  Gen.  i.  2.  And  the  earth 
was  without  form  and  void,  and  darkness  was  upon  the  face  of  the 
deep:  And  the  Spirit  of  God  moved  upon  the  face  of  the  waters. 
Job  xxvi.  13.  By  his  Spirit  he  hath  garnished  the  heavens;  his  hand 
hath  formed  the  crooked  serpent.  Job  xxxiii.  4.  The  Spirit  of  God 
hath  made  me,  and  the  breath  of  the  Almighty  hath  given  me  life. 

b  Rom.  i.  20.  For  the  invisible  things  of  him,  from  the  creation 
jof  the  world  are  clearly  seen,  being  understood  by  the  things  that 
are  made,  even  his  eternal  power  and  Godhead ;  so  that  they  are 
without  excuse.  Jer.  x.  12.  He  hath  made  the  earth  by  his  power, 
he  hath  established  the  world  by  his  wisdom,  and  hath  stretched  out 
the  heavens  by  his  discretion.  Psal.  civ.  24.  O  Lord,  how  manifold 
pre  thy  works!  in  wisdom  hast  thou  made  them  all:  the  earth  is  full 
of  thy  riches.  Psal.  xxxiii.  5.  He  loveth  righteousness  and  judg- 
ment": the  earth  is  full  of  the  goodness  of  the  Lord.  v.  6.  By  the 
word  of  the  Lord  were  the  heavens  made:  and  all  the  host  of  them, 
by  the  breath  of  his  mouth. 

t  (The  whole  first  chapter  of  Gen.)  Heb.  xi.  3.  Through  faith 
we  understand,  that  the  worlds  were  framed  by  the  word  of  God,  so 
that  things  which  are  seen,  were  not  made  of  things  which  do  ap- 
pear. Col.  i.  16.  For  by  him  were  all  things  created  that  are  hi 
heaven,  and  that  are  in  earth,  visible  and  invisible,  whether  they  be 
thrones  or  dominions,  or  principalities  or  powers;  all  things  were 
created  by  him,  and  for  him.  Acts  xvii.  24.  God  that  made  the 
world,  and  all  things  therein,  seeing  that  he  is  Lord  of  heaven  and 
earth,  dwelleth  not  in  temples  made  with  hands. 

II.  d  Gen.  i.  27.  So  God  created  man  in  his  own  image,  in  the 
image  of  God  created  he  him:  male  and  female  created  he  them. 

e  Gen.  ii.  7.  And  the  Lord  God  formed  man  of  the  dust  of  the 
ground,  and  breathed  into  his  nostrils  the  breath  of  life;  and  man 
•  became  a  living  soul.  With  Eccl.  xii.  7.  Then  shall  the  dust  return 
to  the  earth  as  it  was:  and  the  spirit  shall  return  unto  God  who  gave 
it.  And  Luke  xxiii.  43.  And  Jesus  said  unto  him,  Verily  I  say 
unto  thee,  to-day  shalt  thou  be  with  me  in  paradise.  And  Mat.  x.  28. 
And  fear  not  them  which  kill  the  body,  but  are  not  able  to  kill  die 


*  z  The  Confession  of  Faith.         Chap.  4; 

own  image,/*  having  the  law  of  God  written  in 
their  hearts,^-  and  power  to  fulfil  it  ;/j  and  yet  under 
a  possibility  of  transgressing,  being  left  to  the  li- 
berty of  their  own  will,  which  was  subject  unto 
change./  Beside  this  law  written  in  their  hearts, 
they  received  a  command,  not  to  eat  of  the  tree 
of  the  knowledge  of  good  and  evil ;  which,  while 
they  kept,  they  were  happy  in  their  communion 
with  God,/C  and  had  dominion  over  the  creatures./ 

soul :  but  rather  fear  him  which  is  able  to  destroy  both  soul  and  body 
in  hell. 

/"Gen.  i.  26.  And  God  said,  Let  us  make  man  in  our  image^  after 
our  likeness;  and  let  them  have  dominion  over  the  fish  of  the  sea,' 
and  over  the  fowl  of  the  air,  and  over  the  cattle,  and  over  all  the 
earth,  and  over  every  creeping  thing  that  creepeth  upon  the  earth. 
Col.  iii.  10.  And  have  put  on  the  new  man,  which  is  renewed  in 
knowledge,  after  the  image  of  him  that  created  him.  Eph.  iv.  24. 
And  that  ye  put  on  the  new  man,  which  after  God  is  created  in 
righteousness  and  true  holiness. 

g  Rom.  ii.  14.  For  when  the  Gentiles  which  have  not  tht  law,  do 
by  nature  the  things  contained  in  the  law,  these  having  not  tne  law, 
are  a  law  unto  themselves,  v.  15.  Which  shew  the  work  of  the  law 
written  in  their  hearts,  their  conscience  also  bearing  witness,  and 
their  thoughts  the  mean  while  accusing,  or  else  excusing  one  another. 

h  Eccl.  vii.  29.  Lo,  this  only  have  I  found,  that  God  hath  made 
man  upright;  but  they  have  sought  out  many  inventions. 

i  Gen.  iii.  0.  And  when  the  woman  saw  that  the  tree  was  good 
for  food,  and  that  it  was  pleasant  to  the  eyes,  and  a  tree  to  be  desired 
to  make  one  wise ;  she  took  of  the  fruit  thereof,  and  did  eat,  and 
gave  also  unto  her  husband  with  her;  and  he  did  eat.  Eccl.  vii.  29. 
(See  letter  //  immediately  foregoing.) 

k  Gen.  ii.  17.  But  of  the  tree  of  the  knowledge  of  good  and  evil, 
thou  shalt  not  eat  of  it;  for  in  the  day  that  thou  eatest  thereof,  thou 
shaltsurelv  die.  Gen.  iii.  8.  And  they  heard  the  voice  of  the  Lord 
God  walking  in  the  garden  in  the  cool  of  the  day  :  and  Adam  and  his 
wile  hid  tliemselves  trom  the  presence  of  the  Lord  God  amongst  the 
trees  of  the  garden,  v.  9.  And  the  Lord  God  called  unto  Adam,  and 
said  unto  him,  Where  art  thou?  v.  10.  And  he  said,  1  heard  thy 
voice  in  the  garden  :  and  J  was  afraid  because  J  was  naked  :  and  I 
hid  mvselt.  v.  11.  And  he  said,  Who  told  thee  that  thou  wast  nak- 
ed? Hast  thou  eaten  of  the  tree,  whereof  I  commanded  thee,  that 
thou  shouldst  not  eat?  v.  23.  Therefore  the  Lord  God  sent  him 
forth  from  the  garden  of  Eden,  to  till  the  ground  from  whence  he 
was  taken. 

/  Gen.  i.  26.  And  God  said,  Let  us  make  man  in  our  image,  aft?r 


(    33     ) 


Chap.  V.     Of  Providence* 

VxOD  the  great  Creator  of  all  things,  doth  up* 
hold,<z  direct,  dispose,  and  govern  all  creatures, 
actions,  and  things, b  from  the  greatest  even,  to 
the  least,c  by  his  most  wise  and  holy  providence,« 

our  likeness:  and  let  them  have  dominion  over  the  fish  of  the  sea, 
and  over  the  fowl  of  the  air,  and  over  the  cattle,  and  over  all  the 
earth,  and  over  every  creeping  thing  that  creepeth  upon  the  earth. 
v.  28.  And  God  blessed  them,  and  God  said  unto  them,  Be  fruitful, 
and  multiply,  and  replenish  the  earth,  and  subdue  it:  and  have  do- 
minion over  the  fish  of  the  sea,  and  over  the  fowl  of  the  air,  and  over 
every  living  thing  that  moveth  upon  the  earth. 

I.  a  Heb.  i.  3.  Who  being  the  brightness  of  his  glory,  and  the 
express  image  of  his  person,  and  upholding  all  things  by  the  word  of 
his  power,  when  he  had  by  himself  purged  our  sins,  sat  down  on  the 
right  hand  of  the  Majesty  on  high. 

b  Dan.  iv.  34.  And  at  the  end  of  the  days,  I  Nebuchadnezzar  life 
up  mine  eyes  unto  heaven,  and  mine  understanding  returned  unto  me, 
and  I  blessed  the  most  High,  and  I  praised  and  honoured  him  that 
liveth  for  ever,  whose  dominion  is  an  everlasting  dominion,  and  his 
kingdom  is  from  generation  to  generation,  v.  35.  And  all  the  inha- 
bitants of  the  earth  are  reputed  as  nothing:  and  he  doth  according  to 
his  will  in  the  army  of  heaven,  and  among  the  inhabitants  of  the 
earth;  and  none  can  stay  his  hand,  or  sav  unto  him,  What  dost  thou? 
Psal.  exxxv.  6.  Whatsoever  the  Lord  pleased,  that  did  he  in  heaven 
and  in  earth,  in  the  seas,  and  all  deep  places.  Acts  xvii.  25.  Neither 
is  worshipped  with  men's  hands,  as  though  he  needed  any  thing, 
seeing  he  giveth  to  all  life,  and  breath,  and  all  things,  v.  26.  And 
hath  made  of  one  blood,  all  nations  of  men,  for  to  dwell  on  all  the 
face  of  the  earth,  and  hath  determined  the  times  before  appointed, 
and  the  bounds  of  their  habitation:  v.  28.  For  in  him  we  live,  and 
move,  and  have  our  being;  as  certain  also  of  your  own  poets  have 
said,  For  we  are  also  his  offspring.  Job  xxxviii.  xxxix.  xl.  xli.  chapters* 

c  Mat.  x.  29.  Are  not  two  sparrows  sold  for  a  farthing?  and  one 
of  them  shall  not  fall  on  the  ground  without  your  Father,  v.  30* 
But  the  very  hairs  of  your  head  are  all  numbered,  v.  31.  Fear  ye  not 
therefore,  ye  are  of  more  value  than  many  sparrows. 

d  Prov.  xv.  3.  The  eyes  of  the  Lord  are  in  every  place,  beholding 
the  evil  and  the  good.  Psal.  civ.  24.  O  Lord,  how  manifold  are  thy 
works!  in  wisJom  hast  thou  made  them  all:  the  earth  is  full  of  thy 
riches.  Psal.  cxlv.  17.  The  Lord  is  righteous  in  all  his  ways,  and 
holy  in  all  his  works. 

•E 


34  *fhe  Confession  of  Faith.  Chap.  5% 

according  to  his  infallible  foreknowledge,^  and 
the  free  and  immutable  counsel  of  his  own  wi\\f 
to  the  praise  of  the  glory  of  his  wisdom,  power, 
justice,  goodness,  and  mercy .g 

II.  Although,  in  relation  to  the  foreknowledge 
and  decree  of  God,  the  first  cause,  all  things 
come  to  pass  immutably  and  infallibly  \h  yet,  by 
the  same  providence,  he  ordereth  them  to  fall 
out,  according  to  the  nature  of  second  causes,  ei- 
ther necessarily,  freely,  or  contingently./ 

e  Acfts  xv.  18.  Known  unto  God  are  all  his  works  from  the  be- 
ginning of  the  world,  Psal.  xciv.  8.  Understaird,  ye  brutish  among 
the  people:  and  ye  Tools,  when  will  ye  \tt  wise?  v.  9.  He  that 
planted  the  ear,  shall  he  not  hear?  he  that  formed  the  eve,  shall  he 
no  not  seer  v.  10.  He  that  chastiseth  the  heathen,  shall  not  he  cor- 
rect? he  that  teacheth  man  knowledge,  shall  not  he  know?  v.  11. 
The  Lord  knoweth  the  thoughts  of  man,  that  they  are  vanity. 

f  E[)h.  i.  11.  In  whom  also  we  have  obtained  an  inheritance, 
being  predestinated  according  to  the  purpose  of  him  who  worktth 
all  things  after  the  counsel  of  his  own  will.  Psalm  xxxiii.  10.  The 
Lord  bririgetb  the  counsel  of  the  heathen  to  nought:  he  maketh  the 
devices  of  tl\e  people  of  none  effect,  v.  n.  The  counsel  of  the 
Lord  standeth  forever,  the  thoughts  of  his  heart  to  all  generations. 

g  Isaiah  Ixiii.  14.  As  a  beast  goeth  down  into  the  valley,  the  spirit 
of  the  Lord  caused  him  to  rest;  so  didst  thou  lead  thy  people,  to 
make  thyself  a  glorious  name.  Eph.  iii.  ro.  To  the  intent  that  now, 
unto  the  principalities  and  powers  in  heavenly  places,  might  be  known 
by  the  church  the  manifold  wisdom  of  God.  Rom.  ix.  17.  For 
the  scripture  saith  unto  Pharaoh,  Even  for  this  same  purpose  have  I 
raised  thee  up,  that  I  might  shew  my  power  in  thee,  and  that  my 
name  might  be  declared  throughout  all  the  earth.  Gen.  xlv.  7.  And 
God  sent  me  before  you,  to  preserve  you  a  posterity  in  the  earth, 
and  to  save  your  lives  by  a  great  deliverance.  Psal.  cxlv.  7.  They  , 
shall  abundantly  utter  the  memory  of  thy  great  goodness,  and  shall 
sing  of  thy  righteousness. 

II.  h  Ads  ii.  23.  Him,  being  delivered  bv  the  determinate  counsc  1 
and  foreknowledge  of  God,  ye  have  taken,  and  by  wicked  hands 
have  crucified  and  slain. 

i  Gen.  viii.  22.  While  the  earth  remaincth,  seed-time  and  har- 
vest, and  cold  and  heat,  and  summer  and  winter,  and  day  and  night, 
shall  not  cease.  Jcr.  xxxi.  35.  Thus  saith  the  Lord,  which  giveth 
the  >un  for  a  light  by  day,  and  the  ordinances  of  the  moon  and  of  the 
stars  for  a  light  by  night,  which  divideth  the  sea,  when  the  waves 
thereof  roar;  the  Lord  of  hosts  is  his  name.     Exod.  xxi.  13.  And  if 


Chap.  5-         ^he  Confession  of  Faith.  $§ 

III.  God  in  his  ordinary  providence  makethuse 
of  means, k  yet  is  free  to  work  without,/  above,/7z 
and  against  them  at  his  pleasure.?/ 

a  man  lie  not  in  wait,  but  God  deliver  him  into  his  hand  ;  then  I  will 
appoint  thee  a  place  whither  he  shall,  flee.  With  Deut.  xix.  5-  As 
when  a  mangoeth  into  the  wood  with  his  neighbour,  to  hew  wood, 
and  his  hand  fetcheth  a  stroke  with  the  ax  to  cut  down  the  tree,  and 
the  head  slippeth  from  the  helve,  and  lighteth  upon  his  neighbour 
that  he  die  ;  he  shall  flee  unto  one  of  those  cities,  and  live.  1  Kings 
xxii.  28.  And  Micaiah  said,  If  thou  return  at  all  in  peace,  the  Lord 
hath  not  spoken  by  me.  And  he  said,  Hearken,  O  people,  every  one 
of  you.  v.  34.  And  a  certain  man  drew  a  bow  at  a  venture,  and 
smote  the  King  of  Israel  between  the  joints  of  the  harness:  where- 
fore he  said  unco  the  driver  of  his  chariot,  Turn  thine  hand,  and  carry 
me  out  of  the  host,  for  I  am  wounded.  Isa.  x.  6.  I  will  send  him 
against  an  hypocritical  nation ;  and  against  the  people  of  my  wrath 
will  I  give  him  a  charge  to  take  the  spoil,  and  to  take  the  prey,  and 
to  tread  them  down  like  the  mire  of  the  streets,  v.  7.  Howbeit,  he 
meaneth  not  so,  neither  doth  his  heart  think  so,  but  it  is  in  his  heart 
to  destroy,  and  cut  off  nations  not  a  few. 

III.  k  Acts  xxvii.  31.  Paul  said  to  the  centurion,  and  to  the  sol- 
diers, Except  these  abide  in  the  ship,  ye  cannot  be  saved,  v.  44. 
And  the  rest,  some  on  boards,  and  some  on  broken  pieces  of  the  ship : 
and  so  it  came  to  pass  that  they  escaped  all  safe  to  land.  Isaiah  lv. 
10.  For  as  the  rain  cometh  down,  and  the  snow  from  heaven,  and 
returneth  not  thither,  but  watereth  the  earth,  and  maketh  it  bring 
forth  and  bud,  that  it  mav  give  seed  to  the  sower,  and  bread  to  the 
eater ;  v.  1 1 .  So  shall  my  word  be  that  goeth  forth  out  of  my  mouth  :  It 
shall  not  return  unto  me  void,  but  it  shall  accomplish  that  which  I  please, 
and  it  shall  prosper  in  the  thing  whereto  I  sent  it.  Hos.  ii.  2 1 .  And  it 
shall  come  to  pass  Irs  that  day,  I  will  hear,  saith  the  Lord,  I  will  hear  the 
heavens;  and  they  shall  hear  the  earth;  v.  22.  And  the  earth  shall  hear 
the  corn,  and  the  wine,  and  the  oil;  and  they  shall  hear  Jezree!. 

/  Hos.  i.  7.  But  I  will  have  mercy  upon  the  house  of  Judah,  and 
will  save  them  by  the  Lord  their  God,  and  will  not  save  them  by 
bow,  nor  by  sword,  nor  by  battle,  by  horses,  nor  by  horsemen.  Mat. 
iv.  4.  But  he  answered  and  said,  it  is  written,  Man  shall  not  live  by 
bread  alone,  but  by  every  word  that  proceedeth  out  of  the  mouth 
of  God.  Job  xxxiv.  10.  Therefore  hearken  unto  me,  ye  men  of 
understanding:  far  be  it  from  God,  that  he  should  do  wickedness, 
and  from  the  Almighty,  that  he  should  commit  iniquity. 

m  Rom.  iv.  19.  And  being  not  weak  in  faith,  he  consideied  not 
his  own  body  now  dead,  when  he  was  about  an  hundred  years  old, 
neither  yet  the  deadness  of  Sara's  womb.  v.  20.  He  staggered  not 
at  the  promise  of  God  through  unbelief;  but  was  strong  in  faith,  giv- 
ing glory  to  God  :  v.  21.  And  being  fully  persuaded,  that  what  he 
had  promised  he  was  able  also  to  perform. 

n  2  Kings  vi.  6.  And  the  man  of  God  said,  Where  fell  it?    And 


36  'The  Confession  of  Faith.  Chap.  5. 

IV.  The  almighty  power,  unsearchable  wis- 
dom, and  infinite  goodness  of  God,  so  far  mani- 
fest themselves  in  his  providence,  that  it  extendeth 
itself  even  to  the  first  fall,  and  all  other  sins  of 
angels  and  men,0  and  that  not  by  a  bare  permis- 
sion,/) but  such  as  hath  joined  with  it  a  most  wise 

he  shewed  him  the  place.  And  he  cut  down  a  stick,  and  cast  it  in 
thither,  and  the  iron  did  swim.  Dan.  hi.  2;.  And  the  princes,  go- 
vernors and  captains,  and  the  king's  counsellors  being  gathered  to- 
gether, saw  thtse  men,  upon  whose  bodies  the  Hie  had  no  power, 
nor  was  an  hair  of  their  head  singed,  neither  were  their  coats  changed, 
nor  the  smell  of  fire  had  passed  on  them. 

IV.  0  Rom.  xi.  32.  For  God  hath  concluded  them  all  in  unbelief, 
that  he  might  have  mercy  upon  ail.  v.  33.  O  the  depth  ot  the  riches, 
both  of  the  wisdom  and  knowledge  of  God !  how  unsearchable  are 
his  judgments,  and  his  ways  past  rinding  out!  v.  34.  For  who  hath 
known  the  mind  ot  the  Lord,  or  who  hath  been  his  counsellor  ? 
1  bain.  xxiv.  1.  And  again  the  anger  of  the  Lord  was  kindled  against 
Israel,  and  he  moved  David  against  them,  to  say,  Go  number  Is- 
rael and  Judah.  With  1  Chr.  xxi.  1.  And  Satan  stood  up  against  Is- 
rael, and  provoked  David  to  number  Israel.  1  Kings  xxii.  22.  And 
the  Lord  said  unto  him,  Wherewith  ?  And  he  said,  I  will  go  forth, 
and  1  will  be  a  1\  ing  spirit  in  the  month  of  all  his  prophets.  And  he 
slid,  Thou  shalt  persuade  him,  and  prevail  also :  go  forth,  and  do 
so.  v.  25.  Now  therefore  behold,  the  Lord  hath  put  a  lying  spirit 
kl  the  mouth  of  all  these  thy  prophets,  and  the  Lord  hath  spoken  evil 
concerning  thee.  1  Chr.  x.4.  Then  said  Saul  to  his  armour-bearer, 
Draw  thy  sword,  and  thrust  me  through  therewith;  lest  these  uncir- 
CUmcised  come,  and  abuse  me.  But  his  armour-bearer  would  not, 
tor  he  was  sore  afraid.  So  Saul  took  a  sword,  and  fell  upon  it. 
v.  1  3.  So  Saul  died,  for  his  transgression  which  he  committed  against 
the  Lord,  even  against  the  word  of  the  Lord,  \\  hich  he  kept  not,  and 
also  for  asking  counsel  ot  one  that  had  a  familiar  spirit,  to  inquire  ot 
it.  v.  14.  And  inquired  not  ot  the  Lord:  thereiore  he  slew  him, 
and  turned  the  kingdom  unto  David  the  son  of  Jesse.  2  Sam.  xvi.  10. 
And  the  king  said.  What  have  I  to  do  with  sou  ye  sons  ot  Zeruiahr 
so  let  him  curse,  because  the  Lord  hath  said  unto  him,  Curse  David. 
Who  shall  then  say,  Wherefore  hast  thou  done  so?  Aclsii.  23. 
Him,  being  delivered  by  the  determinate  counsel  and  foreknow- 
ledge ot  God,  y«  have  taken,  and  bv  wicked  hands  have  crucified 
and  slain.  Ac"ts  iv.  27.  For  of  a  truth  against  thy  holy  child  Jesus, 
whom  thou  bast  anointed,  both  Herod  and  Pontius  Pilate,  with  the 
Gentiles  and  the  people  of  Lrael,  were  gathered  together,  v.  28.  For  to 
do  whatsoever  th\  hand  and  thy  counsel  determined  before  to  be  done. 

//  Acts  xiv.  16.  Who  in  times  past  sutured  all  nations  to  ualk  in 
their  own  ways. 


Chap.  5 .  T'he  Confession  of  Faith.  37 

and  powerful  bounding,^  and  otherwise  ordering, 
and  governing  of  them,  in  a  manifold  dispensa- 
tion, to  his  own  holy  ends ;  r  yet  so,  as  the  sin- 
fulness thereof  proceedeth  only  from  the  creature, 
and  not  from  God,  who,  being  most  holy  and 
righteous,  neither  is  nor  can  be  the  author  or  ap- 
prover of  sin.j 

V.  The  most  wise,  righteous  and  gracious 
God  doth  oftentimes  leave  for  a  season  his  own 
children  to  manifold  temptations,  and  the  cor- 
ruption of  their  own  hearts,  to  chastise  them  for 
their  former  sins,  or  to  discover  unto  them  the 
hidden  strength  of  corruption,  and  deceitfulnels 


q  Psalm  Ixxvi.  10.  Surely  the  wrath  of  man  shall  praise  thee:  the 
remainder  of  wrath  shalt  thou  restrain.  2  Kings  xix.  28.  Because 
thy  rage  against  me,  and  thy  tumult,  is  come  up  into  mine  ears, 
therefore  I  will  put  my  hook  in  thy  nose,  and  my  bridle  in  thy  lips, 
and  I  will  turn  thee  back  by  the  way  by  which  thou  earnest. 

r  Gen.  1.  20.  But  as  for  you,  ye  thought  evil  against  me;  but 
God  meant  it  unto  good,  to  bring  to  pass,  as  it  is  this  day,  to  save 
much  people  alive.  Isaiah  x.  6.  I  will  send  him  against  an  hypocri- 
tical nation,  and  against  the  people  of  my  wrath  will  I  give  him  a 
charge  to  take  the  spoil  and  to  take  the  prey,  and  to  tread  them  down 
like  the  mire  of  the  streets,  v.  7.  Howbeit,  he  meaneth  not  so,  nei- 
ther doth  his  heart  think  so;  but  it  is  in  his  heart  to  destroy,  and  cut 
off  nations  not  a  few.  v.  12.  Wherefore  it  shall  come  to  pass,  that 
when  the  Lord  hath  performed  his  whole  work  upon  mount  Zion, 
and  on  Jerusalem,  I  will  punish  the  fruit  of  the  stout  heart  of  the 
king  of  Assyria,  and  the  glory  of  his  high  looks. 

s  James  i.  1  3,  Let  no  man  sav  when  he  is  tempted,  I  am  tempted 
of  God:  for  God  cannot  be  tempted  with  evil,  neither  tempteth  he 
any  man.  v.  14.  But  every  man  is  tempted,  when  he  is  drawn 
away  of  his  own  lust,  and  enticed,  v.  1 7.  Every  good  gift,  and 
every  perfect  gift,  is  from  above,  and  cometh  down  irom  the  Fa- 
ther of  lights,  with  whom  is  no  variableness,  neither  shadow  of  turn- 
ing. 1  John  ii.  16.  For  all  that  is  in  the  world,  the  lust  of  the  flesh, 
and  the  lust  of  the  eyes,  and  the  pride  of  life,  is  not  of  the  Father, 
but  is  of  the  world.  Psalm  1.  2 1 .  These  things  hast  thou  done,  and 
I  kept  silence :  thou  thoughtesuthat  I  was  altogether  such  an  one  as 
thyself:  but  I  will  reprove  thee,  and  iet  them  in  order  before  thine 
fyes. 


38  'The  Confession  cf  Faith.  Chap.  5. 

of  their  hearts,  that  they  may  be  humbled ;  /  and 
to  raise  them  to  a  more  close  and  constant  de- 
pendence for  their  support  upon  himself,  and  to 
make  them  more  watchful  against  all  future  oc- 
casions of  sin,  and  for  sundry  other  just  and  holy 
ends,  v 

VI.  As  for  those    wicked  and  ungodly  men, 
whom  God  as  a  righteous  judge,  for  former  sins, 

V.  t  2  Chr.  xxxii.  25.  But  Hezekiah  rendered  not  again,  accord- 
ing to  the  benefit  done  unto  him  :  for  his  heart  was  lifted  up ;  there- 
iore  there  was  wrath  upon  him,  and  upon  Judah  and  Jerusalem,  v.  26. 
Notwithstanding  Hezekiah  humbled  himself  for  the  pride  of  his 
heart  (both  he  and  the  inhabitants  of  Jerusalem)  so  that  the  wrath  of 
the  Lord  came  not  upon  them  in  the  days  of  Hezekiah.  v.  3 1 .  How- 
beit,  in  the  business  of  the  ambassadors  of  the  princes  of  Babylon, 
who  sent  unto  him  to  inquire  of  the  wonder  that  was  done  in  the 
land,  God  left  him  to  try  him,  that  he  might  know  all  that  was  in 
his  heart.  2  Sam.  xxiv.  r.  And  again  the  anger  of  the  Lord  was 
kindled  against  Israel,  and  he  moved  David  against  them  to  say,  Go 
number  Israel  and  Judah. 

v  2  Cor.  xii.  7.  And  lest  I  should  be  exalted  above  measure, 
through  the  abundance  of  the  revelations,  there  was  given  to  me  a 
thorn  in  the  flesh,  the  messenger  of  Satan  to  buffet  me,  lest  I  should 
be  exalted  above  measure,  v.  8.  For  this  thing  1  besought  the  Lord 
thrice,  that  it  might  depart  from  me.  v.  9.  And  he  said  unto  me, 
My  grace  is  sufficient  for  thee:  for  my  strength  is  made  perfect 
in  weakness.  Most  gladly  therefore  will  I  rather  glory  in  my 
infirmities,  that  the  power  of  Christ  may  rest  upon  me.  Psalm  lxxiii. 
throughout,  fsalm  lxxvii.  1.  I  cried  unto  God  with  mv  voice: 
even  unto  God  with  my  voice,  and  he  gave  ear  unto  me.  v.  10. 
And  I  said,  This  is  my  infirmity :  but  I  will  remember  the  years 
of  the  right  hand  of  the  most  High.  v.  12.  I  will  meditate 
also  of  all  thy  work,  and  talk  of  thy  doings.  (Read  the  intermediate 
verses  in  the  Bible.)  Mark  xiv.  from  the  66th  verse  to  the  end, 
with  John  xxi.  15.  So  when  they  had  dined,  Jesus  saith  to  Simon 
Peter,  Simon,  son  of  Jonas,  lovest  thou  me  more  than  these?  He 
saith  unto  him,  Yea,  Lord;  thou  knowest  that  I  love  thee.  He  saith 
unto  him,  Feed  my  lambs,  v.  16.  He  saith  to  him  again  the  second 
time,  Simon,  son  of  Jonas,  lovest  thou  me  ?  He  saith  unto  him,  Yea, 
Lord;  thou  knowest  that  I  love  thee.  He  saith  unto  him,  Feed  my 
sheep,  v.  17.  He  saith  unto  him  the  third  time,  Simon,  son  of  Jo- 
nas, lovest  thou  me  ?  Peter  was  grieved,  because  he  said  unto  him 
the  third  time,  lovest  thou  me?  And  he  said  unto  him,  Lord,  thou 
knowest  all  things;  thou  knowest  that  I  love  thee.  Jesus  saith  unto 
him,  Peed  my  sheep. 


Chap.  5.         'The  Confession  of  Fait  hi  39 

doth  blind  and  harden  ,u>  from  them  he  not  only 
withholdeth  his  grace,  whereby  they  might  have 
been  enlightened  in  their  understandings,  and 
wrought  upon  in  their  hearts ;  x  but  sometimes 
also  withdraweth  the  gifts  which  they  had,jy  and 
exposeth  them  to  such  objeds  as  their  corruption 
makes  occasion  of  sin ;  z  and  withal,  gives  them 
over  to  their  own  lusts,  the  temptations  of  the 
world,  and  the   power   of  Satan  :#    whereby  it 

VI.  10  Rom.  i.  24.  Wherefore  God  also  gave  them  up  to  un- 
cleanness,  through  the  lust  of  their  own  hearts,  to  dishonour  their 
own  bodies  between  themselves :  v.  26.  For  this  cause  God  gave 
them  up  unto  vile  affections :  For  even  their  women  did  change  the 
natural  use  into  that  which  is  against  nature:  v.  28.  And  even  as 
they  did  not  like  to  retain  God  in  their  knowledge,  God  gave  them 
over  to  a  reprobate  mind,  to  do  those  things  which  are  not  conveni- 
ent. Rom.  xi.  7.  What  then  ?  Israel  hath  not  obtained  that  which 
he  seeketh  for,  but  the  election  hath  obtained  it,  and  the  rest  were 
blinded,  v.  8.  According  as  it  is  written,  God  hath  given  them  the 
spirit  of  slumber,  eyes  that  they  should  not  see,  and  ears  that  they 
should  not  hear,  unto  this  day. 

x  Deut  xxix.  4.  Yet  the  Lord  hath  not  given  yoa  an  heart  to  per- 
ceive, and  eyes  to  see,  and  ears  to  hear,  unto  this  day. 

y  Mat.  xiii.  12.  For  whosoever  hath,  to  him  shall  be  given, 
and  he  shall  have  more  abundance :  but  whosoever  hath  not,  from 
him  shall  be  taken  away,  even  that  he  hath.  Mat.  xxv.  29.  For 
unto  every  one  that  hath  shall  be  given,  and  he  shall  have  abundance : 
but  from  him  that  hath  not  shall  be  taken  away,  even  that  which  he 
hath. 

z  Deut.  ii.  30.  But  Sihon  king  of  Heshbon  would  not  let  us  pass 
by  him  :  for  the  Lord  thy  God  hardened  his  spirit,  and  made  his  heart 
obstinate,  that  he  might  deliver  him  into  thy  hand,  as  appeareth  this 
day.  2  Kings  viii.  12.  And  Hazael  said,  Why  weepeth  my  lord? 
And  he  answered,  Because  I  know  the  evil  that  thou  wilt  do  unto  the 
children  of  Israel:  their  strongholds  wilt  thou  set  on  fire,  and  their 
young  men  wilt  thou  slay  with  the  sword,  and  wilt  dash  their  child- 
ren, and  rip  up  their  women  with  child,  v.  13.  And  Hazael  said. 
But  what,  is  thy  servant  a  dog,  that  he  should  do  this  great  thing? 
And  Elisha  answered,  the  Lord  hath  shewed  me  that  thou  shalt  be 
king  over  Syria. 

a  Psal.  lxxxi.  1 1.  But  my  people  would  not  hearken  to  my  voice: 
and  Israel  would  none  of  me.  v.  12.  So  I  gave  them  up  unto  their 
own  heart's  lust,  and  they  walked  in  their  own  counsels.  2  Thess.  ii. 
10.  And  with  all  deceivableness  of  unrighteousness  in  them  that  pe- 


4.6  *fhe  Confession  of  Faith.         Chap.  5. 

comes  to  pass,  that  they  harden  themselves,  even 
under  those  means  which  God  useth  for  the  soft- 
ning  of  others. b 

VII.  As  the  providence  of  God  doth,  in  gene- 
ral, reach  to  all  creatures;  so,  after  a  most  spe- 
cial manner,  it  taketh  care  of  his  church,  and  dis- 
poseth  all  things  to  the  good  thereof,  c 

rish  ;  because  they  received  not  the  love  of  the  truth;  that  they  might 
be  saved,  v.  it.  And  for  this  cause  God  shall  send  them  strong 
delusion,  that  they  should  believe  a  lie.  v.  12.  That  they  all  might 
be  damned,  who  believeth  not  the  truth,  but  had  pleasure  in  un- 
righteousness. 

6  Exod.  vii.  3.  And  I  will  harden  Pharaoh's  heart,  and  multiply 
my  signs  and  my  wonders  in  the  land  of  Egypt.  With  Exod.  viii. 
1  c.  But  when  Pharaoh  saw  that  there  was  respite,  he  hardened  his 
heart,  and  hearkened  not  unto  them;  as  the  Lord  had  said.  v.  32. 
And  Pharaoh  hardened  his  heart  at  this  time  also,  neither  would  he 
let  the  people  go.  2  Cor.  ii.  15.  For  we  are  unto  God  a  sweet  sa- 
vour of  Christ,  in  them  that  are  saved,  and  in  them  that  perish,  v.  16. 
To  the  one  we  are  the  savour  of  death  unto  death;  and  to  the  other, 
the  savour  of  life  unto  life:  and  who  is  sufficient  for  these  things? 
Isa.  viii.  14.  And  he  shall  be  for  a  sanctuary  ;  but  for  a  stone  of 
stumbling,  and  for  a  rock  of  offence  to  both  the  houses  of  Israel,  for 
a  gin,  and  for  a  snare  to  the  inhabitants  of  Jerusalem.  1  Pet.  ii.  7. 
Unto  you  therefore  which  believe,  he  is  precious:  but  unto  them 
which  be  disobedient,  the  stone  which  the  builders  disallowed,  the 
same  is  made  the  head  of  the  corner,  v.  8.  And  a  stone  of  stumbling, 
and  a  rock  of  offence, even  to  them  which  stumble  at  the  word,  being 
disobedient,  whercunto  also  they  were  appointed.  Isa.  vi.  9.  And 
he  said,  Go  and  tell  this  people,  Hear  ye  indeed,  but  understand  not; 
and  see  ye  indeed,  but  perceive  not.  v.  10.  Make  the  heart  of  this 
people  fat,  and  make  their  ears  heavy,  and  shut  their  eyes;  lest 
they  see  with  their  eyes,  and  hear  with  their  ears,  and  understand 
with  their  heart,  and  convert,  and  be  healed.  With  Afts  xxviii.  26. 
Saving,  Go  unto  this  people,  and  say,  Hearing  ye  shall  hear,  and 
shall  not  understand  :  and  seeing  ye  shall  see,  and  not  perceive. 
v.  27.  For  the  heart  of  this  people  is  waxed  gross,  and  their  ears  are 
dull  of  hearing,  and  their  eyes  have  they  closed:  lest  they  should  see 
with  their  eyes,  and  hear  with  their  ears,  and  understand  with  their 
heart,  and  should  be  converted,  and  I  should  heal  them. 

\  II.  c  1  Tim.  iv.  10.  For  therefore  we  both  labour,  and  suffer 
reproach,  Ik  1  atise  we  trust  in  the  living  God,  who  is  the  Saviour  of 
all  men,  specially  of  those  that  believe.  Amos  ix.  8.  Behold  the 
eyes  of  the  Lord  God  are  upon  the  sinful  kingdom,  and  I  will  de- 
stroy it  from  oft"  the  face  of  the  earth;  saving  that  1  will  not  utterly 


(     4i      ) 

Chap.  VI.    Of  the  Fall  of  Man,  of  Sin,  and  of  the 
Punishment  thereof 

vJUR  first  parents,  being  seduced  by  the  subtilty 
and  temptation  of  Satan,  sinned  in  eating  the  for- 
bidden fruits  This  their  sin,  God  was  pleased, 
according  to  his  wise  and  holy  counsel,  to  permit, 
having  purposed  to  order  it  to  his  own  glory.£ 

II.  By  this  sin  they  fell  from  their  original 
righteousness,  and  communion  with  God,<:  and  so 

destroy  the  house  of  Jacob,  saith  the  Lord.  v.  9.  For  lo,  I  will  com- 
mand, and  I  will  sift  the  house  of  Israel  among  all  nations,  like  as 
corn  is  sifted  in  a  sieve,  yet  shall  not  the  least  grain  fall  upon  the 
earth.  Rom.  viii.  28.  And  we  know  that  all  things  work  together 
for  good,  to  them  that  love  God,  to  them  who  are  the  called  accord-, 
ing  to  his  purpose.  Isa.  xliii.  3.  For  I  am  the  Lord  thy  God,  the 
holy  one  of  Israel,  thy  Saviour :  I  gave  Egypt  for  thy  ransom,  Ethio- 
pia and  Sheba  for  thee.  v.  4.  Since  thou  was  precious  in  my  sight, 
thou  hast  been  honourable,  and  I  have  loved  thee :  therefore  will  I 
give  men  for  thee,  and  people  for  thy  life.  v.  5.  Fear  not,  for  I  am 
with  thee;  I  will  bring  thy  seed  from  the  east,  and  gather  thee  from 
the  west.  v.  14.  Thus  saith  the  Lord,  your  Redeemer,  the  holy  One 
of  Israel,  for  your  sake  I  have  sent  to  Babylon,  and  have  brought 
down  all  their  nobles,  and  the  Chaldeans,  whose  cry  is  in  the  ships. 

I.  a  Gen.  iii.  13.  And  the  Lord  God  said  unto  the  woman,  What 
is  this  that  thou  hast  done  ?  And  the  woman  said,  The  serpent  be- 
tfuiled  me,  and  I  did  eat.  2  Cor.  xi.  3.  But  I  fear  least  by  any 
means,  as  the  serpent  beguiled  Eve  through  his  subtilty,  so  your 
minds  should  be  corrupted  from  the  simplicity  that  is  in  Christ. 

b  Rom.  xi.  32.  For  God  hath  concluded  them  all  in  unbelief,  that 
he  might  have  mercy  upon  all. 

II.  c  Gen.  iii.  6.  And  when  the  woman  saw  that  the  tree  was 
good  for  food,  and  that  it  was  pleasant  to  the  eyes,  and  a  tree  to  be 
desired  to  make  one  wise  ;  she  took  of  the  fruit  thereof,  and  did  eat, 
and  gave  also  unto  her  husband  with  her,  and  he  did  eat.  v.  7.  And 
the  eyes  of  them  both  were  opened,  and  they  knew  that  they  were 
naked:  and  they  sewed  fig-leaves  together,  and  made  themselves 
aprons,  v.  8.  And  they  heard  the  voice  of  the  Lord  God  walking  in 
the  garden,  in  the  cool  of  the  day  :  And  Adam  and  his  wife  hid  them- 
selves from  the  presence  of  the  Lord  God,  amongst  the  trees  of  the 
garden.  Eccl.  vii.  29.  Lo,  this  only  have  I  found,  that  God  hath 
made  man  upright;  but  they  have  sought  out  many  inventions. 
Rom.  iii.  23.  For  all  have  sinned  and  come  short  of  the  glory  of  God. 

F 


42  The  Confession  of  Faith.         Chap.  6. 

became  dead  in  sin,</  and  wholly  defiled  in  all 
the  faculties  and  parts  of  soul  and  body.*' 

III.  They  being  the  root  of  all  mankind,  the 
guilt  of  this  sin  was  imputed,/*   and  the  same 

d  Gen.  ii.  17.  But  of  the  tree  of  the  knowledge  of  good  and  evil, 
thou  shalt  not  eat  of  it :  for  in  the  day  that  thou  eatest  thereof,  thou 
shalt  surely  die.  Eph.  ii.  1.  And  you  hath  he  quiekned,  who  were 
dead  in  trespasses  and  sins. 

e  Tit.  i.  1 5.  Unto  the  pure  all  things  are  pure,  but  unto  them  that 
are  defiled  and  unbelieving,  is  nothing  pure,  but  even  their  mind 
and  conscience  is  defiled.  Gen.  vi.  5.  And  God  saw  that  the  wick- 
edness of  man  was  great  in  the  earth,  and  that  every  imagination  of 
the  thoughts  of  his  heart  was  only  evil  continually.  Jer.  xvii.  9.  The 
heart  is  deceitful  above  all  things,  and  desperately  wicked,  who  can 
know  it?  Rom.  Hi.  10.  As  it  is  written,  there  is  none  righteous,  no 
not  one:  v.  1 1.  There  is  none  that  understandeth,  there  is  none  that 
seeketh  after  God  :  v.  12.  They  are  all  gone  out  of  the  way ;  they  arc 
together  become  unprofitable;  there  is  none  that  doth  good,  no  not 
one;  v.  13.  Their  throat  is  an  open  sepulchre;  with  their  tongues 
they  have  used  deceit:  the  poison  of  asps  is  under  their  lips.  v.  14. 
Whose  mouth  is  full  of  cursing  and  bitterness,  v.  15.  Their  feet 
are  swift  to  shed  blood,  v.  16.  Destruction  and  misery  are  in  their 
ways;  v.  17.  And  the  way  of  peace  have  they  not  known,  v.  18. 
There  is  no  fear  of  God  before  their  eves. 

III.  f  Gen.  i.  27.  So  God  created  man  in  his  own  image,  in  the 
image  of  God  created  he  him  :  male  and  female  created  he  them. 
v.  28.  And  God  blessed  them,  and  God  said  unto  them,  Be  fruitful 
and  multiply,  and  replenish  the  earth,  and  subdue  it :  and  have  do- 
minion over  the  fish  of  the  sea,  and  over  the  fowl  of  the  air,  and  over 
every  living  thing  that  moveth  upon  the  earth.  And  Gen.  ii.  16. 
And  the  Lord  God  commanded  the  man,  saying,  Of  every  tree  of 
the  garden  thou  mayest  freely  eat.  v.  1  7.  But  of  the  tree  of  the 
knowledge  of  good  and  evil,  thou  shalt  not  eat  of  it:  for  in  the  day 
that  thou  eatest  thereof,  thou  shalt  surely  die.  And  Adits  xvii.  26. 
And  hath  made  of  one  blood,  all  nations  of  men,  for  to  dwell  on  all  the 
face  of  the  earth,  and  hath  determined  the  times  before  appointed, 
and  the  bounds  of  their  habitations.  With  Rom.  v.  12.  Wherefore, 
as  bv  one  man  sin  entered  into  the  world,  and  death  by  sin ;  and  so 
death  passed  upon  all  men,  for  that  all  have  sinned,  v.  15.  But  not 
as  the  offence,  so  also  is  the  free  gift.  For  if  through  the  offence  of 
one  man  many  be  dead ;  much  more  the  grace  of  God  and  the  gift 
by  grace,  which  is  by  one  man,  Jesus  Christ,  hath  abounded  unto 
many.  v.  16.  And  not  as  it  was  by  one  that  sinned,  so  is  the  gift : 
for  the  judgment  was  by  one  to  condemnation;  but  the  tree  gift  is  of 
many  offences  unto  justification,  v.  17.  For  if  by  one  man's  of- 
fence, death  reigned  by  one;  much  more  they  which  receive  abun- 


Chap.  6.  The  Confession  of  Faith.  43 

death  in  sin  and  corrupted  nature  conveyed,  to  all 
their  posterity  descending  from  them  by  ordinary 
generation.^ 

IV.  From  this  original  corruption,  whereby  wc 
are  utterly  indisposed,  disabled,  and  made  op- 
posite to  all  good,/6  and  wholly  inclined  to  all 
evil,/  do  proceed  all  actual  transgressions./^ 

dance  of  grace,  and  of  the  gift  of  righteousness,  shall  reign  in  life  by 
one,  Jesus  Christ,  v.  18.  Therefore  as  by  the  offence  of  one,  judg- 
ment came  upon  all  men  to  condemnation :  even  so  by  the  righteous- 
ness of  one,  the  free  gift  came  upon  all  men  unto  justification  of 
life.  v.  19.  For  as  by  one  man's  disobedience  many  were  made  sin- 
ners :  so  by  the  obedience  of  one  shall  many  be  made  righteous. 
And  1  Cor.  xv.  21.  For  since  by  man  came  death,  by  man  came 
also  the  resurrection  of  the'dead.  v.  22.  For  as  in  Adam  all  die,  even 
so  in  Christ  shall  all  be  made  alive.  *  v.  45.  And  so  it  is  written, 
The  first  man,  Adam,  was  made  a  living  soul,  the  last  Adam  was 
made  a  quickening  spirit.  *  v.  49.  And  as  we  have  born  the  image 
of  the  earthv,  we  shall  also  bear  the  image  of  the  heavenly. 

g  Psal.  li".  5.  Behold,  I  was  shapen  in  iniquity;  and  in  sin  did  my 
mother  conceive  me.  Gen.  v.  3.  And  Adam  lived  an  hundred  and 
thirty  years,  and  begat  a  son  in  his  own  likeness,  after  his  image  ; 
and  called  his  name  Seth.  Job  xiv  4.  Who  can  bring  a  clean  thing 
out  of  an  unclean?  not  one.  Job  xv.  14.  What  is  man,  that  he 
should  be  clean  I  and  he  which  is  born  of  a  woman,  that  he  should 
be  righteous  ?  . 

IV.  h  Rom.  v.  6.  For  when  we  were  yet  without  strength,  in  due 
time  Christ  died  for  the  ungodly.  Rom',  viii.  7.  Because  the  carnal 
mind  isenmitv  against  God  :  for  it  is  net  subject  to  the  law  of  God, 
neither  indeed  can  be.  Rom.  vii.  1 8.  For  I  know,  that  in  me  (that 
is,  in  mv  flesh)  dwelleth  no  good  thing;  for  to  will  is  present  with 
me,  but'how  to  perform  that  which  is  good,  I  find  not.  Col.  1.  21. 
And  you,  that  were  sometime  alienated,  and  enemies  in  your  mind 
by  wicked  works,  yet  now  hath  he  reconciled. 

i  Gen.  vi.  5.  And  God  saw  that  the  wickedness  of  man  was  great 
in  the  earth,  and  that  every  imagination  of  the  thoughts  of  his  heart 
was  only  evil  continually.  Gen.  viii.  ai.  And  the  Lord  smelled  a 
sweet  savour;  and  the  Lord  said  in  his  heart,  1  will  not  again  curse 
the  ground  any  more  for  man's  sake  ;  for  the  imagination  of  man's 
heart  is  evil  from  his  youth:  neither  will  I  again  smite  any  more 
everv  thing  living  as  I  have  done.  Rom.  hi.  10.  As  it  is  written, 
There  is  none  righteous,  no  not  one  :  v.  11.  There  is  none  that  un- 
derstandeth,  there  is  none  that  seeketh  after  God:  v.  la.  They  are 
all  gone  out  of  the  way,  they  are  together  become  unprofitable,  there 
is  none  that  doeth  good,  no  not  one. 

k  James  i.  14.  But  every  man  is  tempted,  when  he  is  drawn  away 


4+  The  Confession  of  Faith.  Chap.  6. 

V.  This  corruption  of  nature,  during  this  life, 
doth  remain  in  those  that  are  regenerated :/  and 
although  it  be  through  Christ  pardoned  and  mor- 
tified, yet  both  itself,  and  all  the  motions  thereof, 
are  truly  and  properly  sin./;/ 

VI.  Every  sin,  both  original  and  actual,  being 
a  transgression  of  the  righteous  law  of  God,  and 


of  his  own  lust,  and  enticed,  v.  i  5.  Then  when  lust  hath  conceived, 
it  bringeth  forth  sin  :  and  sin,  when  it  is  finished,  bringeth  forth  death. 
Eph.  ii.  2.  Wherein  in  time  past  ye  walked  according  to  the  course 
01  this  world,  according  to  the  prince  of"  the  power  of  the  air,  the 
spirit  that  now  worketh  in  the  children  of  disobedience,  v.  3.  Among 
whom  also  we  all  had  our  coversation  in  times  past,  in  the  lusts  of 
our  flesh,  fulfilling  the  desires  of  the  flesh,  and  of  the  mind  ;  and 
■were  by  nature  the  children  of  wrath,  even  as  others.  Mat.  xv.  19. 
For  out  of  the  heart  proceed  evil  thoughts,  murders,  adulteries,  forni- 
cations, thefts,  false  witness,  blasphemies. 

V.  /  1  John  i.  8.  If  we  say  that  we  have  no  sin,  we  deceive  our- 
selves, and  the  truth  is  not  in  us.  v.  10.  If  we  say  that  we  have  not 
sinned,  we  make  him  a  liar,  and  his  word  is  not  in  us.  Rom.  vii.  14. 
For  we  know  that  the  law  is  spiritual :  but  I  am  carnal,  sold  under 
sin.  v.  1  7.  Now  then,  it  is  no  more  I  that  do  it,  but  sin  that  dwel- 
led! in  me.  v.  18.  For  I  know,  that  in  me  (that  is,  in  my  flesh) 
dwelleth  no  good  thing  :  for  to  will  is  present  with  me,  but  how  to 

{perform  that  which  is  good,  I  find  not.  v.  23.  But  I  see  another 
aw  in  my  members,  warring  against  the  law  of  my  mind,  and  bring- 
ing me  into  captivity  to  the  law  of  sin,  which  is  in  my  members. 
James  iii.  2.  For  in  many  things  we  offend  all.  If  any  man  offend 
not  in  word,  the  same  is  a  perfect  man,  and  able  also  to  bridle  the 
whole  body.  Prov.  xx.  9.  Who  can  say,  I  have  made  my  heart 
clean,  I  am  pure  from  my  sin  ?  Eccl.  vii.  20.  For  there  is  not  a  just 
man  upon  earth,  that  doth  good  and  sinneth  not. 

7n  Rom.  vii.  5.  For  when  we  were  in  the  flesh,  the  motions  of  sins 
which  were  by  the  law,  did  work  in  our  members  to  bring  forth 
fruit  unto  death,  v.  7.  What  shall  we  sav  then?  Is  the  law  sin? 
God  forbid.  Nay,  1  had  not  known  sin,  but  by  the  law  :  fori  had 
not  known  lust,  except  the  law  had  said,  Thou  shalt  not  covet,  v.  8. 
But  sin,  taking  occasion  by  the  commandment,  wrought  in  me  all 
manner  of  concupiscence.  For  without  the  law  mii  was  dead.  v.  25. 
I  thank  God,  through  Jesus  Christ  our  Lord.  So  then,  with  the 
mind  I  myself  serve  the  law  of  God;  but  with  the  flesh  the  law  of 
sin.  Gal.  v.  17.  For  the  flesh  lusteth  against  the  spirit,  and  the 
spirit  against  the  flesh  :  and  these  are  contrary  the  one  to  the  other; 
ro  that  ye  cannot  do  the  things  that  yc  would. 


Chap.  6.  'the  Confession  of  Faith.  45 

contrary  thereunto, n  doth,  in  its  own  nature, 
bring  guilt  upon  the  sinner,©  whereby  he  is  bound 
over  to  the  wrath  of  God,/>  and  curse  of  the  law,y 
and  so  made  subject  to  death, r  with  all  miseries, 
spiritual,!  temporal,/  and  eternal.i; 


VI.  n  1  John  iii.  4.  Whosoever  committeth  sin,  transgresseth  also 
the  law  :  for  sin  is  the  transgression  of  the  law. 

0  Rom.  ii.  15.  Which  shew  the  work  of  the  law  written  in  their 
hearts ;  their  conscience  also  bearing  witness,  and  their  thoughts  the 
mean  while  accusing,  or  else  excusing  one  another.  Rom.  iii.  9. 
What  then  ?  are  we  better  than  they  ?  No,  in  no  wise  :  for  we  have 
before  proved  both  Jews  and  Gentiles,  that  they  are  all  under  sin. 
v.  19.  Now  we  know  that  what  things  soever  the  law  saith,  it 
saith  to  them  who  are  under  the  law:  that  every  mouth  may  be  stop- 
ped, and  all  the  world  may  become  guilty  before  God. 

//  Eph.  ii.  3.  Among  whom  also  we  all  had  our  conversation  in 
times  past,  in  the  lusts  of  our  flesh,  fulfilling  the  desires  of  the  flesh 
and  of  the  mind  ;  and  were  by  nature  the  children  of  wrath,  even  as 
others. 

q  Gal.  iii.  10.  For  as  many  as  are  of  the  works  of  the  law,  are 
under  the  curse:  for  it  is  written,  Cursed  is  every  one  that  conti- 
nueth  not  in  all  things  which  are  written  in  the  book  of  the  law  to 
do  them. 

r  Rom.  vi.  23.  For  the  wages  of  sin  is  death  :  but  the  gift  of  God 
is  eternal  life,  through  Jesus  Christ  our  Lord. 

s  Eph.  iv.  18.  Having  the  understanding  darkened,  being  alien- 
ated from  the  life  of  God,  through  the  ignorance  that  is  in  them, 
because  of  the  blindness  of  their  heart. 

/  Rom.  viii.  20.  For  the  creature  was  made  subjecl:  to  vanity,  not 
willinglv,  but  by  reason  of  him  who  hath  subjected  the  same. 
Lam.  iii.  39.  Wherefore  doth  a  living  man  complain,  a  man  for  the 
punishment  of  his  sins? 

v  Mat.  xxv.  41.  Then  shall  he  say  also  unto  them  on  the  left  hand, 
Depart  from  me,  ye  cursed,  into  everlasting  fire,  prepared  for  the  de- 
vil and  his  angels.  2  Thess.  i.  9.  Who  shall  be  punished  with  ever- 
lasting destruction,  from  the  presence  of  the  Lord,  and  from  the 
glory  of  his  power. 


(     46     ) 


Chap.  VII.     Of  GocTs  Covenant  with  Man. 

J.  HE  distance  between  God  and  the  creature  is 
so  great,  that  although  reasonable  creatures  do 
owe  obedience  unto  him  as  their  Creator,  yet 
thev  could  never  have  any  fruition  of  him  as  their 
blessedness  and  reward,  but  by  some  voluntary 
condescension  on  God's  part,  which  he  hath  been 
pleased  to  express  by  way  of  covenant.^ 

I.  a  Isa.  xl.  i  3.  Who  hath  dire&ed  the  Spirit  of  the  Lord,  or  being 
his  counsellor  hath  taught  him?  v.  14.  With  whom  took  he  coun- 
sel, and  who  instructed  him,  and  taught  him  in  the  path  of  judgment, 
and  taught  him  knowledge,  and  shewed  to  him  the  way  of  under- 
standing? v.  15.  Behold,  the  nations  are  as  a  drop  of  a  bucket,  and 
are  counted  as  the  small  dust  of  the  balance  :  behold  he  taketh  up  the 
isles  as  a  very  little  thing,  v.  16.  And  Lebanon  is  not  sufficient  to 
burn,  nor  the  beasts  thereof  sufficient  for  a  burnt-offering,  v.  1  7.  All 
nations  before  him  are  as  nothing,  and  they  are  counted  to  him  less 
than  nothing,  and  vanity.  Job  ix.  32.  For  he  is  not  a  man  as  I  am, 
that  I  should  answer  him,  and  we  should  come  together  in  judgment, 
v.  33.  Neither  is  there  any  days-man  betwixt  us,  that  might  lay  his 
hand  upon  us  both.  1  Sam.  ii.  25.  If  one  man  sin  against  another, 
the  judge  shall  judge  him  :  but  if  a  man  sin  against  the  Lord,  who 
shall  entreat  for  him?  Psal.  cxiii.  5.  Who  is  like  unto  the  Lord  our 
God,  who  dwelleth  on  high?  v.  6.  Who  humbleth  himself  to  be- 
hold the  things  that  are  heaven,  and  in  the  earth?  Psal.  c.  2.  Serve 
the  Lord  with  gladness:  come  before  his  presence  with  singing,  v.  3. 
Know  ye  that  the  Lord  he  is  God ;  it  is  he  that  hath  made  us,  and 
not  we  ourselves ;  we  are  his  people,  and  the  sheep  of  his  pasture. 
Job  xxii.  2.  Can  a  man  be  profitable  unto  God,  as  he  that  is  wise 
may  be  profitable  unto  himself?  v.  3.  Is  it  any  pleasure  to  the  Al- 
mighty that  thou  art  righteous?  or  is  it  gain  to  him,  that  thou  makest 
thy  ways  perfect?  Job  xxxv.  7.  If  thou  be  righteous,  what  givest 
thou  him  r  or  what  rcceiveth  he  of  thine  hand?  v.  8.  Thy  wicked- 
ness may  hurt  a  man  as  thou  art,  and  thy  righteousness  may  profit  the 
son  of  man.  Luke  xvii.  10.  So  likewise  ye,  when  ye  shall  have 
done  all  those  things  which  are  commanded  you,  say,  We  are  un- 
profitable servants :  we  have  done  that  which  was  our  duty  to  do. 
Ads  xvii.  24.  God  that  made  the  world,  and  all  things  therein,  see- 
ing that  he  is  Lord  of  heaven  and  earth,  dwelleth  not  in  temples  made 
with  hands:  v.  25.  Neither  is  worshipped  with  men's  hands,  as 


Chap.  7.         ^the  Confession  of  Faith.  47 

II.  The  first  covenant  made  with  man  was  a 
covenant  of  works,^  wherein  life  was  promised 
to  Adam,  and  in  him  to  his  posterity ,c  upon  con- 
dition of  perfecl  and  personal  obedience.*/ 

III.  Man,  by  his  fall,  having  made  himself  in- 
capable of  life  by  that  covenant,  the  Lord  was 
pleased  to  make  a  second,?  commonly  called  the 
covenant  of  grace :  wherein  he  freely  offered! 
unto  sinners  life  and  salvation  by  Jesus  Christ, 
requiring  of  them  faith  in  him,  that  they  may 
be  saved ;/  and  promising  to  give  unto  all  those 

though  he  needed  any  thing,  seeing  he  giveth  to  all  life,  and  breath, 
and  all  things. 

II.  b  Gal.  iii.  12.  And  the  law  is  not  of  faith:  but,  The  man  that 
doth  them  shall  live  in  them. 

c  Rom.  x.  5.  For  Moses  describeth  the  righteousness  which  is  of 
the  law,  that  the  man  which  doth  those  things,  shall  live  by  them. 
Rom.  v.  12  to  20.     (See  Chap.  vi.  Seft.  3.  letter/".) 

d  Gen.  ii.  1  7.  But  of  the  tree  of  the  knowledge  of  good  and  evil, 
thou  shalt  not  eat  of  it :  for,  in  the  day  that  thou  eatest  thereof,  thou 
shalt  surely  die.  Gal.  iii.  10.  For  as  many  as  are  of  the  works  of  the 
law,  are  under  the  curse  :  for  it  is  written,  Cursed  is  every  one  that 
continueth  not  in  all  things  which  are  written  in  the  book  of  the  law 
to  do  them. 

III.  e  Gal.  iii.  21.  Is  the  law  then  against  the  promises  of  God? 
God  forbid ;  for  if  there  had  been  a  law  given  which  could  have 
given  life,  verily  righteousness  should  have  been  by  the  law.  Rom. 
viii.  3.  For  what  the  law  could  not  do,  in  that  it  was  weak  through 
the  flesh,  God,  sending  his  own  Son  in  the  likeness  of  sinful  flesh, 
and  for  sin,  condemned  sin  in  the  flesh.  Rom.  iii.  20.  Therefore, 
by  the  deeds  of  the  law  there  shall  no  flesh  be  justified  in  his  sight: 
for  by  the  law  is  the  knowledge  of  sin.  v.  21.  But  now  the  righte- 
ousness of  God  without  the  law  is  manifested,  being  witnessed  by  the 
law  and  the  prophets.  Gen.  iii.  15.  And  I  will  put  enmity  between 
thee  and  the  woman,  and  between  thy  seed  and  her  seed :  it  shall 
bruise  thy  head,  and  thou  shalt  bruise  his  heel.  Isa.  xlii.  6.  I  the 
Lord  have  called  thee  in  righteousness,  and  will  hold  thine  hand,  and 
will  keep  thee,  and  give  thee  for  a  covenant  of  the  people,  for  a  light 
of  the  Gentiles. 

/"Mark  xvi.  15.  And  he  said  unto  them,  Go  ye  into  all  the 
world,  and  preach  the  gospel  to  every  creature,  v.  16.  He  that  be- 
lieveth  and  is  baptized,  shall  be  saved;  but  he  that  believeth  not, 
shall  be  damned.    John  iii.  16.  For  God  so  loved  the  world,  that  he 


4-8  T'hc  Confession  of  Faith.         Chap.  7. 

that  are  ordained  unto  life,  his  Holy  Spirit,  to 
make  them  willing  and  able  to  believe.g 

IV.  This  covenant  of  grace  is  frequently  set 
forth  in  tiie  scripture  by  the  name  of  a  testament, 
in  reference  to  the  death  of  Jesus  Christ  the  tes- 
tator, and  to  the  everlasting  inheritance,  with  all 
things  belonging  to  it,  therein  bequeathed. h 

V '.  This  covenant  was  differently  administered 
in  the  time  of  the  law,  and  in  the  time  of  the  gos- 
pel :/  under  the  law  it  was  administered  by  pro- 


gave  his  only  begotten  Son,  that  whosoever  believeth  in  him  should  not 
perish,  but  have  everlasting  life.  Rom.  x.  6.  But  the  righteousness 
which  is  of  faith  speaketh  on  this  wise,  Say  not  in  thine  heart,  Who 
shall  ascend  into  heaven  ?  ^that  is,  to  bring  Christ  down  from  above.) 
v.  9.  That  if  thou  shalt  confess  with  thy  mouth  the  Lord  Jesus,  and 
shaft  believe  in  thine  heart,  that  God  hath  raised  him  from  the  dead, 
thou  shalt  be  saved.  Gal.  iii.  1 1.  But  that  no  man  is  justified  by  the 
law  in  the  sight  of  God,  it  is  evident :  for,  Thejust  shall  live  by  faith. 
g  Ezek.  xxxvi.  26.  A  new  heart  also  will  I  give  you,  and  a  new- 
spirit  will  I  put  within  you  ;  and  I  will  take  away  the  stony  heart  out 
of  your  flesh,  and  I  will  give  you  an  heart  of  flesh,  v.  27.  And  I 
will  put  my  Spirit  within  you,  and  cause  you  to  walk  in  my  statutes, 
and  ye  shall  keep  my  judgments,  and  do  them.  John  vi.  44.  No 
man  can  come  to  me,  except  the  Father,  which  hath  sent  me,  draw 
him  :  and  I  will  raise  him  up  at  the  last  day.  v.  45.  It  is  written  in 
the  prophets,  And  they  shall  be  all  taught  of  God.  Every  man 
therefore  that  hath  heard,  and  hath  learned  of  the  Father,  cometh 
unto  me. 

IV.  //  Heb.  ix.  1 5.  And  for  this  cause  he  is  the  Mediator  of  the. 
New  Testament,  that  by  means  of  death,  for  the  redemption  of  the 
transgressions  that  were  under  the  first  testament,  they  which  are 
called  might  receive  the  promise  of  eternal  inheritance,  v.  16.  For 
where  a  testament  is,  there  must  also  of  necessity  be  the  death  of  the 
testator,  v.  1  7.  For  a  testament  is  of  force  after  men  are  dead  : 
otherwise  it  is  of  no  strength  at  all  whilst  the  testator  liveth.  Heb. 
vii.  22.  By  so  much  was  Jesus  made  a  surety  of  a  better  testament. 
Luke  xxii.  20.  Likewise  also  the  cup  after  supper,  saying,  This 
cup  is  the  new  testament  in  my  blood,  which  is  shed  foi  you.  1  Cor. 
xi.  25.  After  the  same  manner  also  he  took  the  cup,  when  he  had 
supped,  saying,  This  cup  is  the  new  testament  in  mv  blood  :  this  do 
ye,  as  oft  as  you  drink  it,  in  remembrance  of  me. 

V.  i  2  Cor.  iii.  6.  Who  also  hath  made  us  able  ministers  of  the 
new  testament,  not  of  the  letter,  but  of  the  spirit :  for  the  letter  killeth, 


Chap.  7.         'The  Confession  of  Faith.  49 

mises,  prophecies,  sacrifices,  circumcision,  the 
paschal  lamb,  and  other  types  and  ordinances  de- 
livered to  the  people  of  the  Jews,  all  fore-signi- 
fying Christ  to  come,/6  which  were  for  that  time 
sufficient,  and  efficacious,  through  the  operation 
of  the  Spirit,  to  instruct  and  build  up  the  elecl  in 
faith  in  the  promised  Messiah,/  by  whom  they 
had  full  remission  of  sins,  and  eternal  salvation  ; 
and  is  called  the  Old  Testament.^ 

but  the  spirit  giveth  life.  v.  7.  But  if  the  ministration  of  death, 
written  and  engraven  in  stones,  was  glorious,  so  that  the  children 
of  Israel  could  not  stedfastly  behold  the  face  of  Moses  for  the  glory 
of  his  countenance,  which  glory  was  to  be  done  away  ;  v.  8.  How 
shall  not  the  ministration  of  the  Spirit  be  rather  glorious  ?  v.  9.  For 
if  the  ministration  of  condemnation  be  glory,  much  more  doth  the 
ministration  of  righteousness  exceed  in  glory. 

k  (Heb.  viii.  ix.  x.  chapters.)  Rom.  iv.  it.  And  he  received  the 
sign  of  circumcision,  a  seal  of  the  righteousness  of  the  faith  which 
he  had  yet  being  uncircumcised :  that  he  might  be  the  father  of  all 
them  that  believe,  though  they  be  riot  circumcised;  that  righteous- 
ness might  be  imputed  unto  them  also.  Col.  ii.  1  r.  In  whom  also 
ye  are  circumcised  with  the  circumcision  made  without  hands  in  put- 
ting off  the  body  of  the  sins  of  the  flesh,  by  the  circumcision  of 
Christ:  v.  12.  Buried  with  him  in  baptism,  wherein  also  ye  are  risen 
with  him  through  the  faith  of  the  operation  of  God,  who  hath  raised 
him  from  the  dead.  1  Cor.  v.  7.  Purge  out  therefore  the  old  leaven, 
that  ye  may.be  a  new  lump,  as  ye  are  unleavened.  For  even  Christ 
our  passover  is  sacrificed  for  us. 

/  1  Cor.  x.  1.  Moreover,  brethren,  I  would  not  that  ye  should  be 
ignorant  how  that  all  our  fathers  were  under  the  cloud,  and  all  passed 
through  the  sea,  v.  2.  And  were  all  baptized  unto  Moses  in  the 
cloud,  and  in  the  sea  ;  v.  3.  And  did  all  eat  the  same  spiritual  meat ; 
v.  4.  And  did  all  drink  the  same  spiritual  drink:  (for  they  drank  of 
that  spiritual  Rock  that  followed  them  :  and  that  Rock  was  Christ.) 
Heb.  xi.  13.  These  all  died  in  faith,  not  having  received  the  pro- 
mises, but  having  seen  them  afar  off,  and  were  persuaded  of  them, 
and  embraced  them,  and  confessed  that  they  were  strangers  and  pil- 
prims  on  the  earth.  John  viii.  56.  Your  father  Abraham  rejoiced 
to  see  my  day :  and  he  saw  it,  and  was  glad. 

■m  Gal.  hi.' 7.  Know  ye,  therefore,  that  they  which  are  of  faith,  the 
same  are  the  children  of  Abraham,  v.  8.  And  the  scripture  foresee- 
ing that  God  would  justify  the  heathen  through  faith,  preached  be- 
fore the  gospel  unto  Abraham,  saying,  In  thee  shall  all  nations  be 
blessed,     v.  a.   So  then  they  which  be  of  faith,  are  blessed  with  faith- 

G 


50  The  Confession  of  Faith.  Chap.  7. 

VJ.  Under  the  gospel,  when  Christ  the  sub- 
stances was  exhibited,  the  ordinances  in  which 
this  covenant  is  dispensed  are  the  preaching  of  the 
word, and  the  administration  of  the  sacraments  of 
Baptism  and  the  Lord's  supper,©  which,  though 
fewer  in  number,  and  administered  with  more  sim- 
plicity, and  less  outward  glory;  yet  in  them  it  is 
held  forth  in  more  fulness,  evidence,  and  spiritual 
efficacy,/)   to  all  nations,  both  Jews   and  Gen- 

ful  Abraham,  v.  14.  That  the  blessing  of  Abraham  might  come 
on  the  Gentiles  through  Jesus  Christ ;  that  we  might  receive  the 
promise  of  the  Spirit  through  faith. 

VI.  «  Col.  ii.  17.  Which  are  a  shadow  of  things  to  come;  but 
the  body  is  of  Christ. 

0  Mat.  xxviii.  19.  Go  ye  therefore  and  teach  all  nations,  baptizing 
them  in  the  name  of  the  Father,  and  of  the  Son,  and  of  the  Holy 
Ghost :  v.  20.  Teaching  them  to  observe  all  things  whatsoever  I 
have  commanded  you  :  and  io,  I  am  with  you  alway  even  unto  the 
end  of  the  world.  Amen.  1  Cor.  xi.  23.  For  I  have  received  of  the 
Lord,  that  which  also  I  delivered  unto  you,  That  the  Lord  Jesus, 
the  same  night  in  which  he  was  betrayed,  took  bread  1  v.  24.  And 
when  he  had  given  thanks,  he  brake  it,  and  said,  Take,  eat;  this  is 
my  body,  which  is  broken  for  you  :  this  do  in  remembrance  of  me. 
v.  25.  After  the  same  manner  also  he  took  the  cup,  when  he  had 
supped,  saying,  This  cup  is  the  new  testament  in  my  blood  :  this  do 
ye,  as  oft  as  ye  drink  it,  in  remembrance  of  me. 

/;  Hcb.  xii.  22.  But  ye  are  come  unto  mount  Sion,  and  unto  the 
city  of  the  living  God,  the  heavenly  Jerusalem,  and  to  an  innumer- 
able company  of  angels;  v.  23.  To  the  general  assembly  and  church 
of  the  first-born,  which  are  written  in  heaven;  and  to  God  the  Judge 
of  all ;  and  to  the  spirits  of  just  men  made  perfect ;  v.  24.  And  to  Jesus 
the  Mediator  of  the  new  covenant ;  and  to  the  blood  of  sprinkling, 
that  speaketh  better  things  than  that  of  Abel.  v.  25.  See  that  ye  re- 
fuse not  him  that  speaketh  :  for  if  they  escaped  not  who  refused  him 
that  spake  on  earth,  much  more  shall  not  we  escape,  if  we  turn  away 
from  him  that  speaketh  from  heaven  :  v.  26.  Whose  voice  then 
.shook  the  earth:  but  now  he  hath  promised,  saying,  Yet  once  more, 
ike  not  the  earth  only,  but  also  heaven,  v.  27.  And  this  word, 
Yet  once  more,  signified)  the  removing  of  those  things  that  arc  sha- 
ker., as  of  things  that  are  made,  that  those  things  which  cannot  be 
shaken  may  remain.  Jen  xxxi.  33.  But  this  shall  be  the  covenant 
that  1  will  make  with  the  house  of  Israel,  alter  those  days,  saith  the 
Lord,  I  will  put  my  law  in  their  inward  parts,  and  write  it  in  their 
heart?,  and  will  be  their  God,  and  they  >hall  be  my  people,     v.  34. 


Chap.  7.  "The  Confession  of  Faith.  5 1 

tiles  \q  and  is  called  the  New  Testament.r  There 
are  not  therefore  two  covenants  of  grace  differing 
in  substance,  but  one  and  the  same  under  various 
dispensations..; 

And  they  shall  teach  no  more  every  man  his  neighbour,  and  every 
man  his' brother,  saying,  Know  the  Lord:  for  they  shall  all  know 
me,  from  the  least  of  them  unto  the  greatest  of  them,  saith  the  Lord : 
for  I  will  forgive  their  iniquity,  and  I  will  remember  their  sin  no 
more. 

q  Mat.  xxviii.  19.  (See  letter  0  immediately  foregoing.)  Eph.  ii. 
15.  Having  abolished  in  his  flesh  the  enmity,  even  the  law  of  com- 
mandments, contained  in  ordinances,  for  to  make  in  himself,  of 
twain,  one  new  man,  so  making  peace:  v.  16.  And  that  he  might 
reconcile  both  unto  God  in  one  body  by  the  cross,  having  slain  the 
enmity  thereby  :  v.  1  7.  And  came  and  preached  peace  to  you  which 
were  afar  off,  and  to  them  that  were  nigh.  v.  18.  For  through  him 
■  we  both  have  an  access  by  one  Spirit  unto  the  Father,  v.  19.  Now, 
therefore,  ye  are  no  more  strangers  and  foreigners,  but  feliow-citi- 
zens  with  the  saints,  and  of  the  household  of  God. 

r  Luke  xxii.  20.  Likewise  also  the  cup  after  supper,  saying,  This 
cup  is  the  new  testament  in  my  blood,  which  is  shed  lor  you. 

s  Gab  iii.  14.  That  the  blessing  of  Abraham  might  come  on  the 
Gentiles  through  Jesus  Christ ;  that  we  might  receive  the  promise  of 
the  Spirit  through  faith,  v.  16.  Now  to  Abraham  and  his  seed  were 
the  promises  made.  He  saith  not,  And  to  seeds,  as  of  many ;  but 
as  of  one,  And  to  thy  seed,  which  is  Christ.  Afts  xv.  11.  But  we 
believe  that  through  the  grace  of  the  Lord  Jesus  Christ  we  shall  be 
saved  even  as  they.  Rom.  iii.  2 1 .  But  now  the  righteousness  of  God 
without  the  law  is  manifested,  being  witnessed,  by  the  law  and  the^ 
prophets :  v.  22.  Even  the  righteousness  of  God  which  is  by  faith  of 
Jesus  Christ  unto  all,  and  upon  all  them  that  believe  :  for  there  is  no 
difference  :  v.  23.  For  all  have  sinned,  and  come  short  of  the  glory 
of  God.  v.  30.  Seeing  it  is  one  God,  which  shall  justify  the  circum- 
cision by  faith,  and  uncircumcision  through  faith.  Psal  xxxii.  r. 
Blessed  is  he  whose  transgression  is  forgiven,  whose  sin  is  covered. 
With  Rom.  iv.  3.  For  what  saith  the  scripture?  Abraham  believed 
God,  and  it  was  counted  unto  him  for  righteousness,  v.  6.  Even 
as  David  also  describeth  the  blessedness  of  the  man  unto  whom  God 
imputeth  righteousness  without  works,  v.  16.  Therefore  it  is  of 
faith,  that  it  might  be  by  grace  ;  to  the  end  the  promise  might  be  sure 
to  all  the  seed,  not  to  that  only  which  is  of  the  law,  but  to  that  also 
which  is  of  the  faith  of  Abraham,  who  is  the  father  of  us  all,  v.  1  7. 
(As  it  is  written,  i  have  made  thee  a  father  of  many  nations)  before 
him  whom  he  believed,  even  God,  who  quickeneth  the  dead,  and 
calleth  those  things  which  be  not  as  though  they  were.  v.  23.  Now  it 
was  not  written  for  his  sake  alone,  that  it  was  imputed  to  him ; 


(     5*     ) 


Chap.  VIII.     Of  Christ  the  Mediator. 

XT  pleased  God,  in  his  eternal  purpose,  to  choose 
and  ordain  the  Lord  Jesus,  his  only  begotten  Son, 
to  be  the  Mediator  between  God  and  man  \a  the 
Prophet, £  Priest,c  and  King  ;d  the  Head  and  Sa- 
viour of  his  Church  ;e  the  heir  of  all  things  j/and 
judge  of  the  world  :g  unto  whom  he  did  from  all 

v.  24.  But  for  us  also,  to  whom  it  shall  be  imputed,  if  we  believe  on 
him  that  raised  up  Jesus  our  Lord  from  the  dead.  Heb.  xiii.  8.  Je- 
sus Christ  the  same  vesterday,  and  to-day,  and  for  ever. 

I.  a  Isa.  xlii.  1.  Behold  my  servant  whom  1  uphold,  mine  eleel  in 
whom  my  soul  delighteth:  I  have  put  my  Spirit  upon  him,  he  shall 
bring  forth  judgment  to  the  Gentiles.  1  Pet.  i.  19.  But  with  the 
precious  blood  of  Christ,  as  of  a  Lamb  without  blemish  and  without 
spot:  v.  20.  Who  verily  was  foreordained  before  the  foundation  of 
the  world,  but  was  manifest  in  these  last  times  for  you.  John  iii. 
16.  For  God  so  loved  the  world  that  he  gave  his  only  begotten  Son, 
that  whosoever  believeth  in  him  should  not  perish,  but  have  ever- 
lasting life.  1  Tim.  ii.  5.  For  there  is  one  God,  and  one  Mediator 
between  God  and  men,  the  man  Christ  Jesus. 

b  Acts  iii.  22.  For  Moses  truly  said  unto  the  fathers,  A  prophet 
shall  the  Lord  your  God  raise  up  unto  you,  of  your  brethren,  like 
unto  me;  him  shall  ye  hear  in  all  things  whatsoever  he  shall  say  unto 
you. 

c  Heb.  v.  5.  So  also,  Christ  glorified  not  himself,  to  be  made  an 
high  priest;  but  he  that  said  unto  him,  Thou  art  my  Son,  to-day 
have  I  begotten  thee.  v.  6.  As  he  saith  also  in  another  place,  Thou 
art  a  priest  for  ever  after  the  order  oi  Mtlchhedcc. 

d  Psal.  ii.  6.  Yet  have  I  set  my  King  upon  my  holy  hill  of  Zion. 
Luke  i.  33.  And  he  shall  reign  ovtr  the  house  ol  Jacob  for  ever,  and 
of  his  kingdom,  there  shall  be  no  end. 

e  Eph.  v.  23.  For  the  husband  is  the  h*-ad  of  the  wife,  e\  en  if 
Christ  is  the  head  of  the  church:  and  he  is  the  Saviour  of  the  body. 

f  Heb.  i.  2.  Hath  in  these  last  days  spoken  unto  us  by  his  Son, 
whom  he  hath  appointed  heir  of  all  things,  by  whom  also  he  made 
the  worlds. 

g  AS..-,  xvii.  31.  Because  he  hath  appointed  a  dav,  in  (he  which 
he  will  judge  the  world  in  rightcouMv :»)  by  that  man  whom  he  hath 
ordained;  whereof  he  hath  given  a^urance  unto  all  men,  in  th;:t  he 
hath  raistd  him  from  the  dead. 


Chap.  8.  l'he  Confession  of  Faith.  53 

eternity  give  a  people  to  be  his  seed,Z>  and  to  be 
by  him  in  time  redeemed,  called,  justified,  sanc- 
tified, and  glorified./ 

II.  The  Son  of  God,  the  second  person  in  the 
Trinity,  being  very  and  eternal  God,  of  one  sub- 
stance, and  equal  with  the  Father,  did,  when  the 
fulness  of  time  was  come,  take  upon  him  man's 
nature,^'  with  all  the  essential  properties  and 
common  infirmities   thereof,    yet  without   sin  :/ 

h  John  xvii.  6.  I  have  manifested  thy  name  unto  the  men  which 
thou  gavest  me  out  of  the  world:  thine  they  were,  and  thou  gavest 
them  me;  and  they  have  kept  thy  word.  Psal.  xxii.  30.  A  seed  shall 
serve  him,  it  shall  be  accounted  to  the  Lord  tor  a  generation,  lsa.  liii. 
10.  Yet  it  pleased  the  Lord  to  bruise  him,  be  hath  put  him  to  grief: 
when  thou  shalt  make  his  soul  an  offering  for  sin,  he  shall  see  his 
seed,  he  shall  prolong  his  days,  and  the  pleasure  of  the  Lord  shall 
prosper  in  his  hand. 

*  1  Tim.  ii.  6.  Who  gave  himself  a  ransom  for  all,  to  be  testified 
indue  time.  Isa.  lv.  4.  Behold,  I  have  given  him  for  a  witness  to 
the  people,  a  leader  and  commander  to  the  people,  v.  5.  Behold, 
thou  shalt  call  a  nation  that  thou  knowest  not,  and  nations  that  knew 
not  thee  shall  run  unto  thee,  because  of  the  Lord  thy  God,  and  for 
the  holy  One  of  Israel;  for  he  hath  glorified  thee.  1  Cor.  i.  30.  But 
of  him  are  ye  in  Christ  Jesus,  who  of  God  is  made  unto  us  wisdom, 
and  righteousness,  and  sanctification,  and  redemption. 

II.  k  John  i.  1.  In  the  beginning  was  the  Word,  and  the  Word 
was  with  God,  and  the  Word  was  God.  v.  14.  And  the  Word  was 
made  flesh,  and  dwelt  among  ua,  (and  we  beheld  his  glory,  the  glory 
as  of  the  only  begotten  of  the  Father)  full  of  grace  and  truth.  1  John 
v.  20.  And  we  know  that  the  Son  of  God  is  come,  and  hath  given 
us  an  understanding  that  we  may  know  him  that  is  true:  and  we  are 
in  him  that  is  true,  even  in  his  Son  Jesus  Christ.  This  is  the  true 
God,  and  eternal  life.  Phil.  ii.  6.  Who  being  in  the  iorm  of  God, 
thought  it  not  robbery  to  be  equal  with  God.  Gal.  iv.  4.  But  when 
the  fulness  of  the  time  was  come,  God  sent  forth  his  Son  made  of  a 
woman,  made  under  the  law. 

/  Heb.  ii.  14.  Forasmuch  then  as  the  children  are  partakers  of 
flesh  and  blood,  he  also  himself  likewise  took  part  of  the  same:  that 
through  death  he  might  destroy  him  that  had  the  power  of  death,  that 
is,  the  devil,  v.  16.  For  verily  he  took  not  on  him  the  nature  of  an- 
gels; but  he  took  on  him  the  seed  of  Abraham,  v.  1  7.  Wherefore  in 
all  things  it  behoved  him  to  be  made  like  unto  his  brethren  ;  that  he 
might  be  a  merciful  and  faithful  high  priest,  in  things  pertaining  to 
God,  to  make  reconciliation  for  the  sins  of  the  people.  Heb.  iv.  15. 


5  4  tte  Confession  of  Faith.  C  hap.  8 . 

being  conceived  by  the  power  of  the  Holy  Ghost, 
in  the  womb  of  the  Virgin  Mary,  of  her  sub- 
stance, m  So  that  two  whole,  perfect,  and  dis- 
tinct natures,  the  Godhead  and  the  manhood, 
were  inseparably  joined  together  in  one  person, 
without  conversion,  composition,  or  confusion.;; 
Which  person  is  very  God,  and  very  man,  yet 
one  Christ,  the  onlv  Mediator  between  God  and 
man.0 

III.  The  Lord  Jesus,  in  his  human  nature  thus 
united  to  the  divine,  was  sanctified  and  anointed 
with  the  holy  Spirit  above  measure  \p  having  in 

For  we  have  not  an  high  priest  which  cannot  be  touched  with  the 
feeling  of  our  infirmities;  but  was  in  all  points  tempted  like  as  we 
are,  yet  without  sin. 

m  Luke  i.  27.  To  a  virgin  espoused  to  a  man  whose  name  was 
Joseph,  of  the  house  of  David;  and  the  virgin's  name  was  Marv. 
v.  31.  And  behold,  thou  shalt  conceive  in  thy  womb,  and  bring 
forth  a  son,  and  shall  call  his  name  Jesus,  v.  35.  And  the  angel 
answered  and  said  unto  her,  The  Holy  Ghost  shall  come  upon  tl 
and  the  power  of  the  Highest  shall  overshadow  thee:  therefore  also 
that  holy  thing  which  shaM  be  burn  of  thee,  shall  be  called  the  Son  of 
God.     Gal.  iv.  4.   (See  letter  k  immediately  foregoing.) 

n  Luke  i.  35.  (See  the  foregoing  verse.)  Col.  ii.  9.  For  in  him 
dwelleth  all  the  fulness  oltlic  t j :nlhead  bodily.  Rom.  ix.  5,  Whose 
are  the  fathers,  and  of  whom  as  concerning  the  flesh  Christ  came, 
who  is  overall,  God  blessed  for  ever.  Amen.  1  Peter  iii.  iS.  For 
Christ  ah,o  hath  once  suffered  for  sins,  the  just  for  the  unjust  (that 
lie  might  bring  us  to  (rod)  being  put  to  death  in  the  flesh,  but  quick- 
ened  by  the  Spirit.  1  Tim.  iii.  16.  And  without  controversy.. 
is  the  mystery  of  godliness:  God  was  manifest  in  the  flesh,  justified 
in  the  Spirit,  seen  of  angels,  preached  unto  the  Gentiles,  believed  on 
in  the  world,  received  up  into  glory. 

0  Rom.  i.  3.  Concerning  his  Son  JcsusChrist  our  Lord,  which  was 
made  of  the  seed  of  David,  according  to  the  flesh;  v.  4.  And  declared 
to  be  the  Son  of  God,  with  power,  according  to  the  Spirit  of  holiness, 
by  the  resurrection  from  the  dead.  1  Tim.  ii.  5.  For  there  is  one 
God,  and  one  Mediator  betwe(  n  God  and  men,  the  man  Christ  Jesus. 

J  J  I.  //  PsaL  xlv.  7.  Thou  loves*  righteousness,  and  hatcst  wick- 
edness: therefore  God,  thy  God,  hath  anointed  thee  with  the  oil  of 
gladness  above  thy  fellows.  John  iii.  34.  For  he  whom  God  hath 
sent,  speaketh  the  words  oi  God:  for  God  giveth  not  the  Spirit  by 
measure  unto  him. 


Chap.  8.         I'be  Confession  of  Faith.  $5 

him  all  the  treasures  of  wisdom  and  knowledge  \q 
in  whom  it  pleased  the  Father  that  all  fulness 
mould  dwell  :r  to  the  end,  that  being  holy,  harm- 
less, undefiled,  and  full  of  grace  and  truth,!  he 
might  be  thoroughly  furnished  to  execute  the  of- 
fice of  a  Mediator  and  Surety./  Which  office  he 
took  not  unto  himself,  but  was  thereunto  called 
by  his  Father,?;  who  pat  all  power  and  judgment 
into  his  hand,  and  gave  him  commandment  to 
execute  the  same.w 

IV.  This  office  the  Lord  Jesus  did  most  wil- 
lingly undertake  \x    which  that  he  might  dis- 


q  Col.  ii.  3.  In  whom  are  hid  all  the  treasures  of  wisdom  and 
knowledge. 

r  Col.  i.  19.  For  it  pleased  the  Father,  that  in  him  should  all  ful- 
ness dwell. 

s  Heb.  vii.  26.  For  such  an  high  priest  became  us,  who  is  holy, 
harmless,  undefiled,  separate  from  sinners,  and  made  higher  than  the 
heavens.  John  i.  14.  Aud  the  Word  was  made  flesh,  and  dwelt 
among  us  (and  we  beheld  his  glory,  the  glory  as  of  the  only  begot- 
ten of  the  Father)  full  of  grace  and  truth. 

/  Afts  x.  38.  How  God  anointed  Jesus  of  Nazareth  with  the 
Holy  Ghost,  and  with  power;  who  went  about  doing  good,  and 
healing  all  that  were  oppressed  of  the  devil :  for  God  was  with  him. 
Heb.  xii.  24.  And  to  Jesus  the  Mediator  of  the  new  covenant,  and 
to  the  blood  of  sprinkling,  that  speaketh  better  things  than  that  of 
Abel.  Heb.  vii.  22.  By  so  much  was  Jesus  made  a  surety  of  a  bet- 
ter testament. 

v  Heb.  v.  4.  And  no  man  taketh  this  honour  unto  himself,  but 
he  that  is  called  of  God,  as  was  Aaron  :  v.  5.  So  also,  Christ  glori- 
fied not  himself,  to  be  made  an  high  priest;  but  he  that  said  unto 
him,  Thou  art  my  Son,  to-day  have  I  begotten  thee. 

w  John  v.  22.  For  the  Father  judgeth  no  man;  but  hath  com- 
mitted all  judgment  unto  the  Son  :  v.  27.  And  hath  given  him  autho- 
rity to  execute  judgment  also,  because  he  is  the  Son  of  man.  Mat. 
xxviii.  18.  And  Jesus  came,  and  spake  unto  them,  saying,  All 
power  is  given  unto  me  in  heaven  and  in  earth.  Acts  ii.  36.  There- 
fore let  all  the  house  of  Israel  know  assuredly,  that  God  hath  made 
that  same  Jesus  whom  ve  have  crucified,  both  Lord  and  Christ. 

IV.  x  Psal.  xl.  7.  Then  said  I,  Lo,  I  come:  in  the  volume  of 
the  book  it  is  written  of  me  :  v.  8.  I  delight  to  do  thy  will,  O  mv 
God:  yea,  thy  law  is  within  my  heart.     With  Heb.  x.  5.  Where- 


$6  'the  Confession  of  Fait h.         Chap.  8. 

charge,  he  was  made  under  the  law,v  and  did 
perfectly  fulfil  it;s  endured  most  grievous  tor- 
ments immediately  in  his  soul//  and  most  pain- 
ful sufferings  in  his  body  \b  was  crucified,  and 
died;t"  was  buried,  and  remained  under  the  power 
of  death,  yet  saw  no  corruption. </     On  the  third 

fore  when  be  cometh  into  the  world,  he  saith,  Sacrifice  and  offering 
thou  wouldest  not,  but  a  body  hast  thou  prepared  me  :  v.  6.  In  burnt- 
offerings  and  sacrifices  for  sin  thou  hast  had  no  pleasure  :  v.  7.  Then 
said  I,  Lo,  I  come  (in  the  volume  oi  the  book  it  i-.  written  of  me) 
to  do  thy  will,  O  God.  v.  8.  Above,  when  he  said,  Sacrifice  and 
offering,  and  burnt-offerings,  and  offering  for  sin  thou  wouldest  not, 
neither  hadst  pleasure  therein,  (which  are  offered  by  the  law  :)  v.  o. 
Then  said  he,  Lo,  I  come  to  do  thy  will,  O  God.  He  taketh  away 
the  first,  that  he  may  establish  the  second,  v.  10.  By  the  which  will 
we  are  sanctified,  through  the  offering  of  the  body  of  Jesus  Christ 
once  for  all.  John  x.  18.  No  man  taketh  it  from  n:e,  but  I  lay  it 
down  of  myself:  I  have  power  to  lay  it  down,  and  I  have  pov*er  to 
take  it  again.  This  commandment  have  I  received  of  my  Father. 
Phil.  ii.  8.  And  being  found  it]  fashion  as  a  man,  he  humbled  him- 
self, and  became  obedient  unto  death.,  even  the  death  of  the  cross. 

y  Gal.  iv.  4.  But  when  the  fulness  of  the  time  was  come,  God 
sent  forth  his  Son,  made  of  a  woman,  made  under  the  law. 

z  Mat.  iii.  15.  And  Jesus  answering,  said  unto  him,  Suffer  it  to 
be  so  now  :  for  thus  it  becometh  us  to  fulfil  all  righteousness.  Then 
he  suffered  him.  Mat.  v.  1  7.  Think  not  that  I  am  come  to  destroy 
the  law  or  the  prophets  :   I  am  not  come  to  destroy,  but  to  fulfil. 

a  Mat.  xxvi.  37.  And  he  took  with  him  Peter,  and  the  two  sons 
of  Zebedee,  and  began  to  be  sorrowful,  and  very  heavy,  v.  38. 
Then  saith  he  unio  them,  My  soul  is  exceeding  sorrowful,  even  unto 
death:  tarry  ye  here,  and  watch  with  me.  Luke  xxii.  44.  And  be- 
ing in  an  agony,  he  prayed  more  earnestly:  and  his  sweat  was  as  it 
were  great  drops  of  blood  falling  down  to  the  ground.  Mat.  xxvii. 
46.  And  about  the  ninth  hour  Jesus  cried  with  a  loud  voice,  saying, 
Eli,  EH,  lama  satiaihthani )  that  is  to  say,  My  God,  my  God,  why 
hit  thou  forsaken  me? 

/>   Mat.  xxvi.  and  xwii.  chapters. 

c  Phil.  ii.  S.  (See  tiie  last  scripture  in  r  immediately  foregoing.) 

J  Acts  ii.  43.  Him,  being  delivered  by  the  det<  rminate  counsel 
and  foreknowledge  of  God,  ve  hive  taken,  and  bv  wicked  hands 
have  crucified  and  slain  :  v.  24.  Whom  God  hath  raised  up,  having 
loosed  the  pains  of  death:  because  it  w.^  not  possible  that  he  should 
be  holden  of  it.  v.  37,  Because  thou  wilt  not  leave  my  soul  in  hell, 
neither  wilt  thou  sutler  thine  holy  one  to  see  corruption,  And  Acts 
xiii.  37.  But  he  whom  God  raised  again,  &aw  no  corruption.    Rom. 


Chap.  8.  *the  Confession  of  Faith.  §y 

day  he  arose  from  the  dead,?  with  the  same  body- 
in  which  he  suffered  ;f  with  which  also  he  as- 
cended into  heaven,  and  there  sitteth  at  the  right 
hand  of  his  Father,^  making  intercession  \h  and 
shall  return  to  judge  men  and  angels,  at  the  end 
of  the  world./ 


vi.  9.  Knowing  that  Christ  being  raised  from  the  dead,  dieth  no 
more  ;  death  hath  no  more  dominion  over  him. 

e  1  Cor.  xv.  3.  For  I  delivered  unto  you  first  of  all*  that  which  I 
also  received,  how  that  Christ  died  for  our  sins,  according  to  the 
scriptures :  v.  4.  And  that  he  was  buried,  and  that  he  rose  again  the 
third  day,  according  to  the  scriptures:  v.  5.  And  that  he  was  seen  of 
Cephas,  then  of  the  twelve. 

f  John  xx.  25.  The  other  disciples  therefore  said  unto  him, 
We  have  seen  the  Lord.  But  he  said  unto  them,  Except  I  shall  see 
in  his  hands  the  print  of  the  nails,  and  put  my  finger  into  the  print 
of  the  tails,  and  thrust  my  hand  into  his  side,  I  will  not  believe. 
v.  27.  Then  saith  he  to  Thomas,  Reach  hither  thy  finger,  and  behold 
my  hands ;  and  reach  hither  thy  hand,  and  thrust  it  into  my  side ; 
and  be  not  faithless,  but  believing. 

g  Mark  xvi.  19.  So  then,  after  the  Lord  had  spoken  unto  them, 
he  was  received  up  into  heaven,  and  sat  on  the  right  hand  of  God. 

//  Rom.  viii.  34.  Who  is  he  that  condemneth  ?  It  is  Christ  that 
died,  yea  rather  that  is  risen  again,  who  is  even  at  the  right  hand  of 
God,  who  also  maketh  intercession  for  us.  Heb.  ix.  24.  For  Christ 
is  not  entered  into  the  holy  places  made  with  hands,  which  are  the 
figures  of  the  true ;  but  into  heaven  itself,  now  to  appear  in  the  pre- 
sence of  God  for  us.  Heb.  vii.  25.  Wherefore  he  is  able  also  to  save 
them  to  the  uttermost,  that  come  unto  God  by  him,  seeing  he  ever 
liveth  to  make  intercession  for  them. 

i  Rom.  xiv.  9.  For  to  this  end  Christ  both  died,  and  rose,  and  re- 
vived, that  he  might  be  Lord  both  of  the  dead  and  living,  v.  10. 
But  why  dost  thou  judge  thy  brother  ?  or  why  dost  thou  set  at  nought 
thy  brother?  for  we  shall  all  stand  before  the  judgment-seat  of  Christ. 
Acts  i.  1  r.  Which  also  said,  Ye  men  of  Galilee,-  why  stand  ye  gaz- 
ing up  into  heaven  ?  this  same  Jesus  which  is  taken  up  from  you  into 
heaven,  shall  so  come  in  like  manner  as  ye  have  seen  him  go  into 
heaven.  Acts  x.  42.  And  he  commanded  us  to  preach  unto  the 
people,  and  to  testify  that  it  is  he  which  was  ordained  of  God  to  be 
the  Judge  of  quick  and  dead.  Mat.  xiii.  40.  As  therefore  the  tares 
are  gathered  and  burnt  in  the  fire ;  so  shall  it  be  in  the  end  of  this 
world,  v.  41.  The  Son  of  man  shall  send  forth  his  angels,  and  they 
shall  gather  out  of  his  kingdom  all  things  that  offend,  and  them 
which  do  iniquity :  v.  42.  And  shall  cast  them  into  a  furnace  of  fire  : 
there  shall  be  wailing  and  gnashing  of  teeth.     Judc  6.  And  the  an- 

H 


5&  7 he  Confession  of  Faith.         Chap.  8". 

V.  The  Lord  Jesus,  by  his  perfe6t  obedience 
and  sacrifice  of  himself,  which  he  through  the 
eternal  Spirit  once  ottered  up  unto  God,  hath 
fully  satisfied  the  justice  of  his  Father;/'  and  pur- 
chased not  only  reconciliation,  but  an  everlasting 
inheritance  in  the  kingdom  of  heaven,  for  all 
those  whom  the  Father  hath  given  unto  him./ 

gels  which  kept  not  their  first  estate,  but  left  their  own  habitation,  he 
hath  reserved  in  everlasting  chains  under  darkness,  unto  the  judg- 
ment of  the  great  day.     2  Pet.  ii.  4.   Cod  spared  not  the  angel-  tl 
sinned,  but  cast  them  down  to  hell,  and  delivered  them  into  chains  of 
darkness,  to  be  rcservt  d  unto  judgment. 

V.  k  Rom.  v.  1  (j.  For  as  by  one  man's  disobedience  many  were 
made  sinners:  so,  by  the  obedience  oi  one  shall  many  be  made  right- 
eous. Hcb.  ix.  14.  How  much  more  shall  the  blood  of  Chris*,  who, 
through  the  eternal  Spirit* offered  himself  without  spot  to  Cod,  purge 
your  conscience  from  dead  works  to  serve  the  living  God?  v.  16. 
For  where  a  testament  is,  there  must  also  of  necessity  be  the  death  of 
the  testator.  Hcb.  \.  14.  for  by  one  offering  he  hath  perfofted  for 
ever  them  that  are  sanctified.  Epli.  v.  2.  And  walk  in  love,  as 
Christ  also  hath  loved  us,  and  hath  giveu  himself  for  us  an  ottering 
and  a  sacrifice  fo  Cod  for  a  sweet  smelling  savour.  Rom.  iii.  2<J. 
Whom  God  hath  set  forth  to  be  a  propitiation,  through  taidi  in  his 
blood,  to  declare  his  righteousness  for  the  remission  of  sins  that  are 
past,  through  the  fox  Uarancc  pi  Cod:  v.  26.  To  declare,  I 
at  this  time,  his  righteousness:  that  he  might  be  just,  and  the  jusli- 
fier  of  him  which  believeth  in  Jesus. 

/  Dan.  ix-  24.  Seventy  weeks  are  determined  upon  thy  people, 
and  upon  thy  holy  city,  to  finish  the  transgression,  and  to  make  an 
end  of  sins,  and  to  make  reconciliation  for  iniquity,  and  to  bring  in 

everlasting  righteousness,  and  to  seal  up  the  vision  and  prophecy, 

and  to  anoint  the  most  holy.     v.  26.  And  after  threescore  and  two 

weeks  shall  Messiah  be  cut  oil",  but  not  for  himself:  and  the  people  of 
the  prince  that  shall  tonic,  shall  destroy  the  city,  and  the  sanctuary,  and 

the  end  thereof  shall  be  with  a  flood,  and  unto  the  end  of  the  war 

,!.  iolationJ   are   determined.      Col.  i.   19,    For   it   pleased  the    Father, 

that  in  him  should  all  fulness  dwell,  v.  20.  And  (having  made  peace 
through  the  blood  of   his  cross)  by  him  to  reconcile  all  things  unto 

himself,   b)    him,  1  say,   whether  the)  be  things  in  earth,  or  things  in 

heaven,  bph.  i.  it.  In  whom  aUo  we  have  obtained  an  inheritance, 
beine  predestinated  according  to  the  purpose  of  him  who  worketh  all 
things  after  the  counsel  of  Ins  own  will.  v.  14.  Which  is  the  earnest 
of  our  Inheritance,  until  the  redemption  ol  the  purchased  possession! 
unto  the  praise  of  his  glory.     John  wii.  2.  As  thou  hast  given  him 

power  over  all  lie  h,   that   he   should  give  eternal  life   to  as  mai 


Chap.  8.  'The  Confession  of  Faith.  59 

VI.  Although  the  work  of  redemption  was  not 
a&ualiy  wrought  by  Christ  till  after  his  incarna- 
tion, yet  the  virtue,  efficacy,  and  benefits  there- 
of, were  communicated  unto  the  elect  in  all  ao-es 
successively  from  the  beginning  of  the  world,  in 
and  by  those  promises,  types,  and  sacrifices, 
wherein  he  was  revealed  and  signified  to  be  the 
seed  ot  the  woman,  which  should  bruise  the  ser- 
pent's head,  and  the  Lamb  slain  from  the  begin- 
ning of  the  world,  being  yesterday  and  to-day 
the  same,  and  for  ever.;// 

VII.  Christ,  in  the  work  of  mediation,  acleth 
according  to  both  natures;  by  each  nature  doing; 
that  which  is  proper  to  itself:;/  yet,  by  reason  of 
the  unity  of  the  person,  that  which  is  proper  to 
one  nature,  is  sometimes  in  scripture  attributed 
to  the  person  denominated  by  the  other  nature.© 

thou  hast  given  him.  Heb.  ix.  12.  Neither  by  the  blood  of  goats 
and  calves,  but  by  his  own  blood  he  entered  in  ORce  into  the  holy 
place,  having  obtained  eternal  redemption  for  us.  v.  1  5.  And  for 
this  cause  he  is  the  Mediator  of  the  new  testament,  that  bv  means  of 
death,  for  the  redemption  of  the  transgressions  that  were  under  the 
first  testament,  they  which  are  called  might  receive  the  promise  of 
eternal  inheritance. 

VI.  m  Gal.  iv.  4.  But  when  the  fulness  of  the  time  was  come, 
God  sent  forth  his  Son,  made  ot  a  woman,  made  under  the  law,  v.  5. 
To  redeem  them  that  were  under  the  law,  that  we  might  receive 
the  adoption  of  sons.  Gen,  iii.  re,.  Anil  I  will  put  enmity  between 
thee  and  the  woman,  and  between  thy  seed  and  her  seed:  it  shall 
bruise  thy  head,  and  thou  shalt  bruise  his  heel.  Rev.  xiii.  8.  And  all 
that  dwell  upon, the  earth  shall  worship  him,  whose  names  are  not 
written  in  the  book  of  life  of  the  Lamb  slain  from  the  foundation  of 
the  world.  Heb.  xiii.  8.  Jesus  Christ,  the  same  yesterday,  and  to- 
day, and  for  ever. 

VII.  n  Heb.  ix.  14.  (See  letter  k,  scripture  the  second.)  1  Pet. 
iii.  18.  For  Christ  also  hath  once  suffered  for  sins,  the  just  for  the 
unjust  Jthat  he  might  bring  us  to  God),  being  put  to  death  in  the 
flesh,  but  quickened  bv  the  Spirit. 

0  Acts  xx.  28.  Take  heed  therefore  unto  yourselves,  and  to  all  the 
flock  over  the  which  the  Holy  Ghost  hath  made  you  overseers,  to 
feed  the  church  of  God,  which  he  hath  purchased  with  his  own 


60  T'/jc  Confession  of Faith.         Chap.  8. 

VIII.  To  all  those  for  whom  Christ  hath  pur- 
chased redemption,  he  doth  certainly  and  effec- 
tually apply  and  communicate  the  same  ;p  making 
intercession  for  them  \q  and  revealing  unto  them, 
in  and  by  the  word,  the  mysteries  of  salvation ;/- 
effectually  persuading  them  by  his  Spirit  to  be- 
lieve and  obey ;  and  governing  their  hearts  by  his 
word  and  Spirit  ;s  overcoming  all  their  enemies 

blood.  John  iii.  13.  And  no  man  hath  ascended  up  to  heaven,  but 
he  that  came  down  from  heaven,  even  the  Son  of  man  which  is  in 
heaven.  1  John  iii.  16.  Hereby  perceive  we  the  love  of  God,  be- 
cause he  laid  down  his  life  for  us :  and  we  ought  to  lay  down  our 
lives  for  the  brethren. 

VIII.  Ji  John  vi.  37.  All  that  the  Father  giveth  me  shall  come  to 
me;  and  him  that  cometh  to  me  I  will  in  no  wise  cast  out.  v.  39. 
And  this  is  the  Father's  will  which  hath  sent  me,  that  of  all  which  h« 
hath  given  me  I  should  lose  nothing,  but  should  raise  it  up  again  at 
the  last  day.  John  x.  1 5.  As  the  Father  knoweth  me,  even  so  know 
I  the  Father:  and  I  lay  down  my  life  for  the  sheep,  v.  16.  And 
other  sheep  I  have,  which  are  not  of  this  fold:  them  also  I  must 
bring,  and  they  shall  hear  my  voice;  and  there  shall  be  one  fold,  and 
one  shepherd. 

7  1  John  ii.  1.  My  little  children,  these  things  write  I  unto  you, 
that  ye  sin  not.  And  if  any  man  sin,  we  have  an  Advocate  with  the 
Father,  Jesus  Christ  the  righteous,  v.  2.  And  he  is  the  propitiation 
for  our  sins  :  and  not  for  ours  only,  but  also  for  the  sins  of  the  whole 
world.  Rom.  viii.  34.  Who  is  he  that  condemneth?  It  is  Christ 
that  died,  yea  rather,  that  is  risen  again,  who  is  even  at  the  right  hand 
of  God,  who  also  maketh  intercession  for  us. 

r  John  xv.  13.  Greater  love  hath  no  man  than  this,  that  a  man 
lay  down  his  life  for  his  friends,  v.  1  5.  Henctforth  I  call  you  not 
servants ;  for  the  servant  knowttli  not  what  his  lord  doth  :  but  I  have 
called  you  friends;  for  all  things  that  I  have  heard  of  my  Father,  I 
have  made  known  unto  you.  Eph.  i.  7.  In  whom  we  have  re- 
demption through  his  blood,  the  forgiveness  of  sins,  according  to 
the  riches  of  his  grace:  v.  8.  Wherein  he  hath  abounded  towards  us 
in  all  wisdom  and  prudence;  v.  9.  Having  made  known  unto  us  the 
mystery  of  his  will,  according  to  his  good  pleasure,  which  he  hath 
purposed  in  himself.  John  xvii.  6.  I  have  manifested  thy  name  unto 
the  men  which  thou  gavest  me  out  of  the  world:  thine  they  were, 
and  thou  gavest  them  me;  and  they  bave  kept  thy  word. 

s  John  xiv.  16.  And  I  will  pray  the  Father,  and  he  shall  give  you 
another  Comforter,  that  he  may  abide  with  you  lor  ever.  Heb.  xii. 
2.  Looking  unto  Jesus,  the  author  and  finisher  of  our  faith;  who, 


Chap.  9.  The  Confession  of  Fahh.  61 

by  his  almighty  power  and  wisdom,  in  such  man- 
ner and  ways  as  are  most  consonant  to  his  won- 
derful and  unsearchable  dispensation./ 


Chap.  IX.     Of  Free-will. 

VjOD  hath  endued  the  will  of  man  with  that 
natural  liberty,  that  is  neither  forced,  nor  by  any 
absolute  necessity  of  nature  determined  to  do 
good  or  evil.tf 

for  the  joy  that  was  set  before  him,  endured  the  cross,  despising  the 
shame,  and  is  set  down  at  the  right  hand  of  the  throne  of  God. 
2  Cor.  iv.  13.  We  having  the  same  spirit  of  faith,  according  as  it  is 
written,  I  believed,  and  therefore  have  I  spoken :  we  also  believe, 
and  therefore  speak.  Rom.  viii.  9.  But  ye  are  not  in  the  flesh,  but 
in  the  Spirit,  if  so  be  that  the  Spirit  of  God  dwell  in  you.  Now,  if 
any  man  have  not  the  Spirit  of  Christ,  he  is  none  of  his.  v.  14.  For 
as  many  as  are  led  by  the  Spirit  of  God,  they  are  the  sons  of  God. 
Rom.  xv.  18.  For  I  will  not  dare  to  speak  of  any  of  those  things 
which  Christ  hath  not  wrought  by  me,  to  make  the  Gentiles  obedi- 
ent, by  word  and  deed,  v.  19.  Through  mightv  signs  and  wonders, 
by  the  power  of  the  Spirit  of  God :  so  that  from  Jerusalem  and 
round  about  unto  Illyricum,  I  have  fully  preached  the  gospel  of 
Christ.  John  xvii.  17.  Sanctify  them  through  thy  truth:  thy  word 
is  truth. 

/  Psal.  ex.  1.  The  Lord  said  unto  my  Lord,  Sit  thou  at  mv  right 
hand,  until  I  make  thine  enemies  thy  footstool.  1  Cor.  xv.  25.  For 
he  must  reign,  till  he  hath  put  all  enemies  under  his  feet.  v.  26.  The 
last  enemy  that  shall  be  destroyed,  is  death.  Mai.  iv.  2.  But  unto 
you  that  fear  my  name,  shall  the  Son  of  righteousness  arise  with, 
healing  in  his  wings;  and  ye  shall  go  forth  and  grow  up  as  calves  of 
the  stall,  v.  3.  And  ye  shall  tread  down  the  wicked;  for  they  shall 
be  ashes  under  the  soles  of  your  feet,  in  the  day  that  I  shall  do  this, 
saith  the  Lord  of  hosts.  Col.  ii.  ic.  And  having  spoiled  principali- 
ties and  powers,  he  made  a  shew  of  them  ope.nly,  triumphing  over 
them  in  it. 

I.  a  Mat.  xvii.  12.  But  I  say  unto  you,  that  Elias  is  come  already, 
and  they  knew  him  not,  but  have  done  unto  him  whatsoever  they 
listed:  likewise  shall  also  the  Son  of  man  suffer  of  them.  James  i. 
14.  But  every  man  is  tempted,  when  he  is  drawn  away  of  his  own 
lust,  and  enticed.     Deut.  xxx.  19.  I  call  heaven  and  earth  to  record 


62  The  Confession  of  Faith.  Chap.  9. 

II.  Man,  in  his  state  of  innocency,  had  free- 
dom and  power  to  will  and  to  do  that  which  is 
good  and  well-pleasing  to  God  \b  but  yet  mutably, 
so  that  he  might  fall  from  it.c 

III.  Man,  by  his  fall  into  a  state  of  sin,  hath 
wholly  lost  all  ability  of  will  to  any  spiritual  good 
accompanying  salvation  ;d  so  as  a  natural  man, 
being  altogether  averse  from  that  good,t-  and  dead 
in  sin,y~is  not  able,  by  his  own  strength,  to  con- 
vert himself,  or  to  prepare  himself  thereunto.g 

this  day  against  you,  that  I  have  set  before  you  life  and  death,  bless- 
ing and  cursing:  therefore  choose  life,  that  both  thou  and  thy  seed 
may  live. 

II.  b  Eccl.  vii.  29.  Lo,  this  only  have  I  found,  that  God  hath 
made  man  upright;  but  they  have  sought  out  many  inventions.  Gen. 
i.  26.  And  God  said,  Let  us  make  man  in  our  image,  after  our  like- 
ness: and  let  them  have  dominion  over  the  fish  of  the  sea,  and  over 
the  fowl  of  the  air,  and  over  the  cattle,  and  over  all  the  earth,  and 
over  every  creeping  thing  that  creepeth  upon  the  earth. 

c  Gen.  ii.  16.  And  the  Lord  (rod  commanded  the  man,  saying, 
Of  every  tree  in  the  garden  thou  mayest  freely  eat :  v.  i  7.  But  of  the 
tree  of  the  knowledge  of  good  and  evil,  thou  shalt  not  eax  of  it :  for  in 
the  day  that  thou  catest  thereof,  thou  shalt  surely  die.  Gen.  iii.  6. 
And  when  the  woman  saw  that  the  tree  was  good  for  food,  and  that 
it  was  pleasant  to  the  eyes,  and  a  tree  to  be  desired  to  make  one  wise  ; 
she  took  of  the  fruit  thereof,  and  did  eat,  and  gave  also  unto  her  hus- 
band with  her;  and  he  did  eat. 

III.  //Rom.  v.  6.  For  when  we  were  yet  without  strength,  in 
due  time  Christ  died  for  the  ungodly.  Rom.  viii.  7.  Because  the 
carnal  mind  is  enmity  against  God  :  for  it  is  not  subject  to  the  law  of 
God,  neither  indeed  can  be.  John  xv.  5.  I  am  the  vine,  ye  are  the 
branches :  he  that  abideth  in  me,  and  I  in  him,  the  same  bringeth 
forth  much  fruit :  for  without  me  ye  can  do  nothing. 

e  Rom.  iii.  10.  As  it  is  written,  There  is  none  righteous,  no  not 
one.  v.  12.  They  are  all  gone  out  of  the  way;  they  are  together  be- 
come unprofitable;  there  is  none  that  doeth  good,  no  not  one. 

f  Eph.  ii.  r.  And  you  hath  he  quickened  who  were  dead  in  tres- 
passes and  sins,  v.  5.,  Even  when  we  were  dead  in  sina  hath  quick- 
ened us  together  with  Christ;  (by  grace  ye  are  saved.)  Col.  ii.  13. 
And  you,  being  dead  in  your  sins,  and  the  uncircumcision  of  your 
fit  sh,  hath  he  quickened  together  with  him,  having  forgiven  you  all 
trespasses. 

g  John  vi.  44.  Xo  man  can  come  to  me,  except  the  Father  which 
hath  sen;  me,  draw  him:  and  I  will  raise  him  up  at  the  last  day. 


Chap.  9.  The  Confession  of  Faith.  63 

IV.  When  God  converts  a  sinner,  and  trans- 
lates him  into  the  state  of  grace,  he  freeth  him 
from  his  natural  bondage  under  sin,/>  and  by  his 
grace  alone  enables  him  freelv  to  will  and  to  do 
that  which  is  spiritually  good  \i  yet  so  as  that,  by 
reason  of  his  remaining  corruption,  he  doth  not 
perfectly  nor  only  will  that  which  is  good,  but 
doth  also  will  that  which  is  evil,/6 

v.  65.  And  he  said,  Therefore  said  I  unto  you,  that  no  man  can 
come  unto  me,  except  it  were  given  unto  him  of  my  Father.  Eph.  ii. 
2.  Wherein  in  time  past  ye  walked  according  to  the  course  of  this 
world,  according  to  the  prince  of  the  power  of  the  air,  the  spirit  that 
now  worketh  in  the  children  of  disobedience,  v.  3.  Among  whom 
also  we  all  had  our  conversation  in  times  past,  in  the  lusts  of  our 
flesh,  fulfilling  the  desires  of  the  flesh,  and  of  the  mind  ;  and  were  by 
nature  the  children  of  wrath,  even  as  others,  v.  4.  But  God,  who 
is  rich  in  mercy,  for  his  great  love  wherewith  he  loved  us  v.  5. 
Even  when  we  were  dead  in  sins,  hath  quickened  us  together  with 
Christ;  (by  grace  ye  are  saved.)  1  Cor.  ii,  14.  But  the  natural  man 
receiveth  not  the  things  of  the  Spirit  of  God  ;  for  they  are  foolishness 
unto  him :  neither  can  he  know  them,  because  they  are  spiritually  dis- 
cerned. Tit.  iii.  3.  For  we  ourselves  also  were  sometimes  foolish,  dis- 
obedient, deceived,  serving  divers  lusts  and  pleasures,  living  in  ma- 
lice and  envy,  hateful,  and  hating  one  another,  v.  4.  But  alter  that 
the  kindness  and  love  of  God  our  Saviour  toward  man  appeared, 
v.  5.  Not  by  works  of  righteousness  which  we  have  done,  but  ac- 
cording to  his  mercy  he  saved  us  by  the  washing  of  regeneration,  and 
renewing  of  the  Holy  Ghost. 

IV.  /;  Col.  i.  1 3.  Who  hath  delivered  us  from  the  power  of  dark- 
ness, and  hath  translated  us  into  the  kingdom  of  his  dear  Son.  John 
viii.  34.  Jesus  answered  them,  Verily,  verily  I  say  unto  you,  whoso- 
ever committeth  sin,  is  the  servant  of  sin.  v.  36.  If  the  Son  there- 
fore shall  make  you  free,  ye  shall  be  free  indeed. 

i  Phil.  ii.  13.  For  it  is  God  which  worketh  in  you,  both  to  will 
and  to  do,  of  his  good  pleasure.  Rom.  vi.  18.  Being  then  made  free 
from  sin,  ye  became  the  servants  of  righteousness,  v.  22.  But  now- 
being  made  free  from  sin,  and  become  servants  to  God,  ye  have 
your  fruit  unto  holiness,  and  the  end  everlasting  life. 

k  Gal.  v.  1 7.  For  the  flesh  lusteth  against  the  spirit,  and  the  spi- 
rit against  the  flesh:  and  these  are  contrary  the  one  to  the  other;  so 
that  ye  cannot  do  the  things  that  ye  would.  Rom.  vii.  15.  For  that 
which  I  do,  I  allow  not:  for  what  I  would,  that  do  I  not;  but  what 
I  hate,  that  do  I.  v.  18.  Fori  know,  that  in  me  (that  ii,  in  my 
flesh)  dwelleth  no  good  thing:  for  to  will  is  present  with  me,  but 


64  tfhe  Confession  of  Faith.       Chap.  io« 

V.  The  will  of  man  is  made  perfectly  and  im- 
mutably free  to  do  good  alone,  in  the  state  of 
glory  only./ 


Chap.  X.     Of  FffeBual  Calling. 

XjlLL  those  v*  horn  God  hath  predestinated  unto 
life,  and  those  only,  he  is  pleased,  in  his  ap- 
pointed and  accepted  time,  effectually  to  call,# 
by  his  word  and  Spirit,^  out  of  that  state  of  sin 

how  to  perform  that  which  is  good,  I  find  not.  v.  19.  For  the  good 
that  I  would,  I  do  not:  but  the  evil  which  I  would  not,  that  I  do. 
v.  21.  I  find  then  a  law,  that  when  I  would  do  good,  evil  is  present 
with  me.  v.  23.  But  I  see  another  law  in  my  members  warring 
against  the  law  of  my  mind,  and  bringing  me  into  captivity  to  the 
law  of  sin,  which  is  in  my  members. 

V.  /  Eph.  iv.  13.  Till  we  all  come  in  the  unity  of  the  faith,  and 
of  the  knowledge  of  the  Son  of  God,  unto  a  perfect  man,  unto  the 
measure  of  the  stature  of  the  fulness  of  Christ.  Heb.  xii.  23.  To 
the  general  assembly  and  church  of  the  first-born,  which  are  written 
in  heaven ;  and  to  God  the  judge  of  all ;  and  to  the  spirits  of  jusMHen 
made  perfecl.  1  John  iii.  2.  Beloved,  now  are  we  the  sons  of  God, 
and  it  doth  not  yet  appear  what  we  shall  be  :  but  we  know,  that  when 
he  shall  appear,  we  shall  be  like  him ;  for  we  shall  see  him  as  he  is. 
Jude  24.  Now  unto  him  that  is  able  to  keep  you  from  falling,  and 
to  present  you  faultless,  before  the  presence  of  his  glory  with  exceed- 
ing joy. 

I.  a  Rom.  viii.  30.  Moreover,  whom  he  did  predestinate,  tflem 
he  also  called  :  and  whom  he  called,  them  he  also  justified  :  and 
whom  he  justified,  them  he  also  glorified.  Rom.  xi.  7.  What  then  > 
Israel  hath  not  obtained  that  which  he  seeketh  for:  but  the  election 
hath  obtained  it,  and  the  rest  were  blinded.  Eph.  i.  10.  That  iu  the 
dispensation  of  the  fulness  of  times,  he  might  gather  together  in  one, 
all  things  in  Christ,  both  which  are  in  heaven,  and  which  are  on 
earth,  even  in  him.  v.  11.  In  whom  also  we  have  obtained  an  in- 
heritance, being  predestinated  according  to  the  purpose  of  him  who 
worketh  all  things  after  the  counsel  of  his  own  will. 

l>  2  Thess.  ii.  13.  But  we  are  bound  to  give  thanks  alway  to  God 
for  you,  brethren,  beloved  of  the  Lord,  because  God  hath  from  the 
beginning  chosen  you  to  salvation,  through  sanctification  of  the  Spi- 
rit, and  belief  of  the  truth  :  v.  14..  Whereunto  he  called  vou  bv  our 
gospel,  to  the  obtaining  of  the  glory  of  our  Lord  Jesus  Christ,   z  Cor. 


Chap.  I  o.        The  Confession  of  Vaith.  65 

and  death  in  which  they  are  by  nature,  to  grace 
and  salvation  by  Jesus  Christ  ;c  enlightening  their 
minds  spiritually  and  savingly  to  understand  the 
things  of  God  \d  taking  away  their  heart  of  stone, 
and  giving  unto  them  an  heart  of  fleshy  re- 
newing their  wills,  and  by  his  almighty  power 

iii.  3.  Forasmuch  as  ye  are  manifestly  declared  to  be  the  epistle  of 
Christ  ministered  by  us$  written  not  with  ink,  but  with  the  Spirit  of 
the  living  God :  not  in  tables  of  stone,  but  in  fleshy  tables  of  the 
heart,  v.  6.  Who  also  hath  made  us  able  ministers  of  the  new  testa- 
men^  not  of  the  letter^  but  of  the  Spirit :  for  the  letter  killeth,  but 
the  Spirit  giveth  life. 

c  Rorm  viii.  2.  For  the  law  of  the  Spirit  of  life,  in  Christ  Jesus, 
hath  made  me  free  from  the  law  of  sin  and  death.  Eph.  ih  1.  And 
you  hath  he  quickened  who  were  dead  in  trespasses  and  sins;  v.  2. 
Wherein  in  time  past  ye  walked  according  to  the  course  of  this  world, 
according  to  the  prince  of  the  power  of  the  air,  the  spirit  that  now 
worketh  in  the  children  of  disobedience,  v.  3.  Among  whom  also 
we  all  had  our  conversation  in  times  past,  in  the  lusts  of  our  flesh, 
fulfilling  the  desires  of  the  flesh,  and  of  the  mind  ;  and  were  by  na- 
ture the  children  of  wrath,  even  as  others,  v.  4.  But  God,  who  is 
rich  in  mercy,  for  his  great  love  wherewith  he  loved  us,  v.  5.  Even 
when  we  were  dead  in  sins,  hath  quickened  us  together  with  Christ, 
(by  grace  ye  are  saved.)  2  Tim.  i.  9.  Who  hath  saved  us,  and  called 
us  with  an  holy  calling,  not  according  to  our  works,  but  according 
to  his  own  purpose  and  grace  which  was  given  us  in  Christ  Jesus, 
before  the  world  began,  v.  10.  But  is  now  made  manifest  by  the 
appearing  of  our  Saviour  Jesus  Christ,  who  hath  abolished  death, 
and  hath  brought  life  and  immortality  to  light,  through  the  gospel. 

d  AcTs  xxvi.  18.  To  open  their  eyes,  and  to  turn  them  from 
darkness  to  light,  and  from  the  power  of  Satan  unto  God,  that  they 
may  receive  forgiveness  of  sins,  and  inheritance  among  them  which 
are  sanctified  by  faith  that  is  in  me.  1  Cor.  ii.  10.  But  God  hath 
revealed  them  unto  us  by  his  Spirit :  for  the  Spirit  searcheth  all  things, 
yea,  the  deep  things  of  God.  v.  12.  Now  we  have  received,  not 
the  spirit  of  the  world,  but  the  Spirit  which  is  of  God  ;  that  we  might 
know  the  things  that  are  freely  given  to  us  of  God.  Eph.  i.  17- 
That  the  God  of  our  Lord  Jesus  Christ,  the  Father  of  glory,  may 
give  unto  you  the  Spirit  of  wisdom  and  revelation,  in  the  knowledge 
of  him  :  v.  iS.  The  eyes  of  your  understanding  being  enlightened; 
that  ye  may  know  what  is  the  hope  of  his  calling,  and  what  the  riches 
of  the  glory  of  his  inheritance  in  the  saints. 

e  Ezek.  xxxvi.  26.  A  new  heart  also  will  I  give  you,  and  a  new 
spirit  will  I  put  within  you,  and  I  will  take  away  the  stony  heart  out 
of  your  flesh,  and  I  will  give  you  an  heart  of  flesh. 

I 


66  ¥'he  Confession  of  Faith.       Chap.  ic. 

determining  them  to  that  which  is  good  \f  and 
effectually  drawing  them  to  Jesus  Christ  ;g  yet  so 
as  they  come  most  freely,  being  made  willing  by 
his  grace./6 

II.  This  effectual  calling  is  of  God's  free  and 
special  grace  alone,  not  from  any  thing  at  all 
foreseen  in  man,/  who  is  altogether  passive  there- 

f  Ezek.  xi.  19.  And  I  will  give  them  one  heart,  and  I  will  put  a 
rsew  spirit  within  you  ;  and  I  will  take  the  stony  heart  out  of  their 
flesh,  and  will  give  them  an  heart  ot  flesh.  Phil.  ii.  13^  For  it  is 
God  which  worketh  in  you,  both  to  will  and  to  do,  of  his  good  plea- 
sure. Deut.  xxx.  6.  And  the  Lord  thy  God  will  circumcise  thine 
heart,  and  the  heart  of  thy  seed,  to  love  the  Lord  thy  God  with  al! 
thine  heart,  and  with  all  thy  soul,  that  thou  mayest  live.  Ezek. 
xxxvi.  27.  And  I  will  put  my  Spirit  within  you,  and  cause  you  to 
walk  in  my  statutes,  and  ye  shall  keep  my  judgments,  and  do  them. 

g  Eph.  i.  19.  And  what  is  the  exceeding  greatness  of  his  power  to 
us-ward  whu  believe  according  to  the  working  of  his  mighty  power. 
John  vi.  44.  No  man  can  come  to  me,  except  the  Father  which  hath 
sent  me,  draw  him :  and  I  will  raise  him  up  at  the  last  day.  v.  45. 
It  is  written  in  the  prophets,  And  they  shall  be  all  taught  of  God. 
Every  man  therefore  that  hath  heard,  and  hath  learned  of  the  Father, 
cometh  unto  me. 

//  Cam.  i.  4.  Draw  me,  we  will  run  after  thee.  Psal.  ex.  3.  Thy 
people  shall  be  willing  in  the  day  of  thy  power,  in  the  beauties  of 
holiness  from  the  womb  of  the  morning :  thou  hast  the  dew  of  thy 
youth.  John  vi.  37.  All  that  the  Father  giveth  me,  shall  come  to 
me;  and  him  that  cometh  to  me  I  will  in  no  wise  cast  out.  Rom. 
vi.  16.  Know  ye  not,  that  to  whom  ye  yield  yourselves  servants  to 
obey,  his  servants  ye  are  to  whom  ye  obey  ;  whether  of  sin  unto 
death,  or  of  obedience  unto  righteousness?  v.  17.  But  God  be 
thanked,  that  ye  were  the  servants  of  sin  ;  but  ye  have  obeyed  from 
the  heart  that  form  of  doctrine  which  was  delivered  you.  v.  18.  Be- 
ing then  made  free  from  sin,  ye  became  the  servants  of  righteous- 
ness. 

II.  /  2.  Tim.  i  9.  Who  hath  saved  us,  and  called  us  with  an  holy 
calling,  not  according  to  our  works,  but  according  to  his  own  pur- 
pose and  grace,  which  was  given  us  in  Christ  Jesus,  before  the 
world  began.  Tit.  iii.  4.  But  after  that  the  kindness  and  love  of 
God  our  Saviour  toward  man  appeared,  v.  5.  Not  by  works  of 
righteousness,  which  we  have  done,  but  according  to  his  mercy  he 
saved  us  by  the  washing  of  regeneration,  and  renewing  ot  the  Holy 
Ghost.  Eph.  ii.  4.  But  God,  who  is  rich  in  mercy,  tor  his  great 
love  wherewith  he  loved  us,  v.  c.  Even  when  we  were  dead  in  sins, 
hath  quickened  us  together  with  Christ,  (by  grace  ye  are  saved.)  v.  S. 


Chap.  I o.        The  Confession  of 'Faith.  b~/ 

in,  until,  being  quickened  and  renewed  by  the 
Holy  Spirit, k  he  is  thereby  enabled  to  answer 
this  call,  and  to  embrace  the  grace  offered  and 
conveyed  in  it./ 

III.  ElecT:  infants,  dying  in  infancy,  are  rege-* 
nerated  and  saved  by  Christ  through  the  Spirit,;*? 
who  worketh  when,  and  where,    and  how  he 

For  by  grace  are  ye  saved,  through  faith  ;  and  that  not  of  yourselves : 
it  is  the  gift  of  God:  v.  9  Not  of  works,  lest  any  man  should  boast. 
Rom.  ix.  11.  For  the  children  being  not  yet  born,  neither  having 
done  anv  good  or  evil,  that  the  purpose  of  God  according  to  election 
might  stand,  not  of  works,  but  of  him  that  calleth. 

k  1  Cor.  ii.  14.  But  the  natural  man  receiveth  not  the  things  of 
the  Spirit  of  God  ;  for  they  are  foolishness  unto  him  :  neither  can  he 
know  them,  because  they  are  spiritually  discerned.  Rom.  viii.  7. 
Because  the  carnal  mind  is  enmity  against  God  :  for  it  is  not  subject 
to  the  law  of  God,  neither  indeed  can  be.  Eph.  ii.  5.  Even  when 
we  were  dead  in  sins,  hath  quickened  us  together  with  Christ,  (by 
grace  ye  are  saved.) 

/  John  vi.  37  All  that  the  Father  giveth  me,  shall  come  to  me; 
and  him  that  cometh  to  me  I  will  in  no  wise  cast  out.  Ezek.  xxxvi. 
27.  And  I  will  put  my  spirit  within  you,  and  cause  you  to  walk  in 
my  statutes,  and  ye  shall  keep  my  judgments,  and  do  them.  John 
v.  25.  Verily  verily  I  say  unto  you,  The  hour  is  coming,  and  now 
is,  when  the  dead  shall  hear  the  voice  of  the  Son  oi  God  :  and  they 
that  hear  shall  live. 

III.  m  Luke  xviii.  15.  And  they  brought  unto  him  also  infants, 
that  he  would  touch  them;  but  when  his  disciples  saw  it,  they  re- 
buked them.  v.  16.  But  Jesus  called  them  unto  him,  and  said,  Suf- 
fer little  children  to  come  unto  me,  and  forbid  them  not:  for  of  such 
is  the  kingdom  of  God.  And  Acts  ii.  38.  Then  Peter  said  unto 
them,  Repent,  and  be  baptized  every  one  of  you  in  the  name  of  Je- 
sus Christ,  for  the  remission  of  sins,  and  ve  shall  receive  the  gift  of 
the  Holy  Ghost,  v.  39.  For  the  promise  is  unto  you,  and  to  your 
children,  and  to  all  that  are  afar  off,  even  as  many  as  the  Lord  our 
God  shall  call.  And  John  iii.  3.  Jesus  answered  and  said  unto  him, 
Verily  verily  I  say  unto  thee,  except  a  man  be  born  again,  he  can- 
not see  the  kingdom  of  God.  v.  §.  Jesus  answered,  Verily  verily  I 
say  unto  thee,  except  a  man  be  born  of  water,  and  of  the  Spirit,  he 
cannot  enter  into  the  kingdom  of  God.  And  1  John  v.  12.  He 
that  hath  the  Son,  hath  life,  and  he  that  hath  not  the  Son  of  God, 
hath  not  life.  And  Rom.  viii.  9.  But  ye  are  not  in  the  flesh,  but  in 
the  Spirit,  if  so  be  that  the  Spirit  of  God  dwell  in  von.  Now,  if  any 
man  have  not  the  Spirit  of  Christ,  he  is  none  of  his.  (Compared  to- 
gether.) 


68  The  Confession  of  Faith.        Chap.  10. 

pleaseth.#  So  also  are  all  other  elect  persons, 
who  are  incapable  of  being  outwardly  called  by 
the  ministry  of  the  word.o 

IV.  Others  not  elected,  although  they  may  he 
called  by  the  ministry  of  the  word,/>  and  may  have 
some  common  operations  of  the  Spirit  ;^  yet  they 
never  truly  come  unto  Christ,  and  therefore  can- 
not be  saved  \r  much  less  can  men,  not  professing 
the  Christian  religion,  be  saved  in  any  other  way 
whatsoever,  be  they  never  so  diligent  to  frame 
their  lives  according  to  the  light  of  nature,  and 
the  law  of  that  religion  they  do  profess  ;s  and  to 

n  John  iii.  8.  The  wind  bloweth  where  it  listeth,  and  thou  hearest 
the  sound  thereof,  but  canst  not  tell  whence  it  cometh,  and  whither 
it  goeth  :  so  is  every  one  that  is  born  of  the  Spirit. 

o  i  John  v.  i2.  He  that  hath  the  Son,  hath  life,  and  he  that  hath 
not  the  Son  of  God,  hath  not  life.  Acts  iv.  12.  Neither  is  there  sal- 
vation in  any  other  :  for  there  is  none  other  name  under  heaven  given 
among  men  whereby  we  must  be  saved. 

IV.  p.  Mat.  xxii.  14.  For  many  are  called,  but  few  are  chosen. 

<y  Mat.  vii.  22.  Many  will  say  to  me  in  that  day,  Lord,  Lord, 
have  we  not  prophesied  in  thy  name  ?  and  in  thy  name  have  cast 
out  devils?  and  in  thy  name  done  many  wonderful  works?  Mat. 
xiii.  20.  But  he  that  received  the  seed  into  stony  places,  the  same  is 
he  that  heareth  the  word,  and  anon  with  joy  receiveth  it :  v.  21.  Yet 
hath  he  not  root  in  himself,  but  dureth  for  a  while:  for  when  tribu- 
lation or  persecution  ariseth  because  of  the  word,  by  and  by  he  is  of- 
fended. Heb,  vi,  4.  For  it  is  impossible  for  those  who  were  once 
enlightened,  and  have  tasted  of  the  heavenly  gift,  and  were  made 
partakers  of  the  Holy  Ghost,  v.  5.  And  have  tasted  the  good  word 
of  God,  and  the  powers  of  the  world  to  come. 

r  John  vi.  64.  But  there  are  some  of  you  that  believe  not.  For 
Jesus  knew  from  the  beginning  who  they  were  that  believed  not,  and 
who  should  betray  him.  v.  65.  And  he  said,  Therefore  said  I  unto 
you,  that  no  man  can  come  unto  me,  except  it  were  given  unto  him 
of  my  Father,  v.  66.  From  that  time  many  of  his  disciples  went 
back,  and  walked  no  more  with  him.  John  viii.  24.  I  said  there- 
fore unto  you,  that  you  shall  die  in  your  sins :  for  if  you  believe  not 
that  I  am  he,  ye  shall  die  in  your  sins. 

s  Acls  iv.  12.  Neither  is  there  salvation  in  any  other  :  for  there  is 

none  other  name  under  heaven  given  among  men  whereby  we  must 

be  saved.     John  xiv.  6.  Jesus  saith  unto  him,  I  aril  the  way,  and  the 

I,  and  the  life:  no  man  cometh  unto  the  Father,  but  by  inc.   Eph. 


Chap.  ii.        'The  Co?ifession  of  Faith.  69 

assert  and  maintain,  that  they  may,  is  very  per- 
nicious, and  to  be  detested./ 


Chap.  XI.     Of  Justification. 

A  HEM  whom  God  effectually  calleth,  he  also 
freely  justifieth  :a  not  by  infusing  righteousness 
into  them,  but  by  pardoning  their  sins,  and  by 
accounting  and  accepting  their  persons  as  righ- 
teous :  not  for  any  thing  wrought  in  them,  or 
done  by  them,  but  for  Christ's  sake  alone :  not  by 
imputing  faith  itself,  the  acl  of  believing,  or  any 
other  evangelical  obedience,  to  them  as  their 
righteousness ;  but  by  imputing  the  obedience  and 
satisfaction  of  Christ  unto  them,£  they  receiving 

ii.  12.  That  at  that  time  ye  were  without  Christ,  being  aliens  from  the 
commonwealth  of  Israel,  and  strangers  from  the  covenants  of  pro- 
mise, having  no  hope,  and  without  God  in  the  world.  John  iv.  22.  Ye 
worship  ye  know  not  what :  we  know  what  we  worship  :  for  salvation 
is  of  the  Jews.  John  xvii.  3.  And  this  is  life  eternal,  that  they  might 
know  thee  the  only  true  God,  and  Jesus  Christ  whom  thou  hast  sent. 

/  2  John  9.  Whosoever  transgresseth,  and  abideth  not  in  the  doc- 
trine of  Christ,  hath  not  God  ♦  he  that  abideth  in  the  doctrine  of 
Christ,  he  hath  both  the  Father  and  the  Son.  v.  10.  If  there  come 
any  unto  you,  and  bring  not  this  doftrine,  receive  him  not  into  your 
house,  neither  bid  him  God  speed,  v.  1 1.  For  he  that  biddethhim 
God  speed,  is  partaker  of  his  evil  deeds.  1  Cor.  xvi.  2a.  If  any  man 
love  not  the  Lord  Jesus  Christ,  let  him  be  Anathema,  Maranatha. 
Gal.  i.  6.  1  marvel,  that  ye  are  so  soon  removed  from  him  that  called 
you  into  the  grace  of  Christ,  unto  another  gospel:  v.  7.  Which  is 
not  another  ;  but  there  be  some  that  trouble  you,  and  would  pervert 
the  gospel  of  Christ,  v.  8.  But  though  we,  or  an  angel  from  heaven, 
preach  any  other  gospel  unto  you,  than  that  which  we  have  preached 
unto  you,  let  him  be  accursed. 

I.  a  Rom.  viii.  30.  Moreover,  whom  he  did  predestinate,  them  he 
also  called  :  and  whom  he  called,  them  he  also  justified :  and  whom 
he  justified,  them  he  also  glorified.  Rom.  iii.  24.  Being  justified 
Ireely  by  his  grace,  through  the  redemption  that  is  in  Jesus  Christ. 

b  Rom.  iv.  5.  But  to  him  that  worketh  not,  but  believeth  on  him 
that  justifieth  the  ungodly,  his  faith  is  counted  for  righteousness,  v.  6, 


yd  tfhe  Confession  of  Faith.       Chap.  n. 

and  resting  on  him  and  his  righteousness  bv  faith; 

which  faith  they  have  not  of  themselves,  it  is  the 

<rift  of  God.c 
o 

Even  as  David  also  describeth  the  blessedness  of  the  man  unto  whom 
God  imputeth  righteousness  without  works,  v.  y.  Saying,  Blessed 
are  they  whose  iniquities  are  forgiven,  and  whose  sins  are  covered, 
v.  8.  Blessed  is  the  man  to  whom  the  Lord  will  not  impute  sin. 
2  Cor.  v.  19.  To  wit,  that  God  was  in  Christ,  reconciling  the  word 
unto  himself,  not  imputing  their  trespasses  unto  them;  and  hath 
committed  unto  us  the  word  of  reconciliation,  v.  21.  For  he  hath 
made  him  to  be  sin  for  us,  who  knew  no  sin  ;  that  we  might  be  made 
the  righteousness  ot  God  in  him.  Rom.  iii.  22.  Even  the  righteous- 
ness of  God  which  is  by  faith  of  Jtsus  Christ  unto  all,  and  upon  all 
them  that  believe  ;  for  there  is  no  difference  :  v  24.  Being  justified 
freely  by  his  grace,  through  the  redemption  that  is  in  Jesus  Christ: 
v.  25.  Whom  God  hath  set  forth  to  be  a  propitiation,  through  faith 
in  his  blood,  to  declare  his  righteousness  for  the  remission  of  sins  that 
are  past,  through  the  forbearance  of  God.  v.  27.  Where  is  boast- 
ing then  ?  It  is  excluded.  By  what  law?  ot  work-?  Nay;  but  by 
the  law  of  faith,  v.  28.  Therefore  we  conclude,  that  a  man  is  jus- 
tified by  faith  without  the  deeds  of  the  law.  Tit.  iii.  5.  Not  by  works 
of  righteousness,  which  we  have  done,  but  according  to  his  mercy 
he  saved  us  by  the  washing  of  regeneration,  and  renewing  of  the 
Holy  Ghost:  v.  7.  That  being  justified  by  his  grace,  we  should  be 
made  heirs  according  to  the  hope  of  eternal  lite.  Eph.  i.  7.  In  whom 
we  have  redemption  through  his  blood,  the  forgiveness  of  sins,  ac- 
cording to  the  riches  of  his  grace.  Jer.  xxiii.  6.  In  his  days  Judah. 
shall  be  saved,  and  Israel  shall  dwell  safely  :  and  this  is  his  name 
whereby  he  shall  be  called,  THE  LORD'  OUR  RIGHTEOUS- 
NESS. 1  Cor.  i.  30.  But  of  him  are  ye  in  Christ  Jesus,  who  of 
God  is  made  unto  us  wisdom,  and  righteousne-s,  and  saixftification, 
and  redemption:  v.  31.  That,  according  as  it  is  written,  He  that 
glorieth,  let  him  glory  in  the  Lord.  Rom.  v.  17.  For  if  by  one 
man's  offence,  death  reigned  by  one  ;  much  more  they  which  receive 
abundance  of  grace,  and  of  the  gift  of  righteousness,  shall  reign  in 
life  by  one,  Jesus  Christ,  v.  18.  Therefore  as  by  the  offence  of  one 
judgment  came  upon  all  men  to  condemnation:  even  so  by  the 
righteousness  of  one,  the  free  gift  came  upon  all  men  unto  justifica- 
tion of  life.  v.  19.  For  as  by  one  man's  disobedience  many  were 
made  sinners :  so,  by  the  obedience  of  one  shall  many  be  made 
righteous. 

c  A<5ts  x.  44.  While  Peter  yet  spake  these  words,  the  Holy  Ghost 
fell  on  all  them  which  heard  the  word.  Gal.  ii.  16.  Knowing  that 
a  man  is  not  justified  by  the  works  of  the  law,  but  by  the  faith  of  Je- 
sus Christ,  even  we  have  believed  in  Jesus  Christ,  that  we  might  be 
Justified  by  the  faith  of  Christ,  and  not  by  the  works  of  the  law  :  for 
the  w  orfcs  of  the  law  shall  no  flesh  be  justified.     Phil.  iii.  9.  And 


Chap.  n.        ^he  Confession  of  Faith.  7 1 

II.  Faith,  thus  receiving  and  resting  on  Christ 
and  his  righteousness,  is  the  alone  instrument  ot 
justification;^  yet  is  it  not  alone  in  the  person 
justified,  but  is  ever  accompanied  with  all  other 
saving  graces,  and  is  no  dead  faith,  but  worketh 

bv  love.^ 

III.  Christ,  by  his  obedience  and  death,  did 
fully  discharge  the  debt  of  all  those  that  are  thus 
justified,  and  did  make  a  proper,  real,  and  full 
satisfaaion  to  his  Father's  justice  in  their  behalf/ 

be  found  in  him,  not  having  mine  own  righteousness  which  is  of 
the  law,  but  that  which  is  through  the  faith  of  Christ,  the  righteous- 
ness  which  is  of  God  by  faith.  Afts  xiii.  38.  Be  it  known  unto  you 
therefore,  men  and  brethren,  that  through  this  man  is  preached  un.o 
you  the  forgiveness  of  sins :  v.  J9.  And  by  him  all  that  beheve  are 
justified  from  all  things,  from  the  which  ye  could  not  be  justified  by 
the  law  of  Moses.  Eph.  ii.  7.  That  in  the  ages_  to  come  he  might 
shew  the  exceeding  riches  of  his  grace,  in  his  kindness  towards  us, 
through  Christ  Jesus,  v.  8.  For  by  grace  are  ye  saved,  through 
faith  ;  and  that  not  of  yourselves  :  it  is  the  gift  of  God 

II  d  Tohn  i.  12.  But  as  manv  as  received  him,  to  them  gave  he 
power  to  become  the  sons  of  God,  even  to  them  that  believe  on  his 
name.  Rom.  iii.  28.  Therefore  we  conclude,  that  a  man  is  justified 
by  faith,  without  the  deeds  of  the  law.  Rom.  v.  1  -Therefore  being 
justified  by  faith,  we  have  peace  with  God,  through  our  Lord  Jesus 

Christ.  .   .     ,  1      •    j    j  u  • 

e  Tames  ii  17.  Even  so  faith,  if  it  hath  not  works,  is  dead,  being 
alone  v.  22.  Seest  thou  how  faith  wrought  with  his  works,  and  by- 
works  was  faith  made  perfed  ?  v.  26.  For  as  the  body  without  the  spirit 
is  dead,  so  faith  without  works  is  dead  also.  Gal.  v.  6.  For  in  Jesus 
Christ,  neither  circumcision  availeth  any  thing,  nor  uncircumcision, 
but  faith  which  worketh  by  love.  _ 

III  /Rom.  v.  8.  But  God  commendeth  his  love  towards  us,  m 
that  while  we  were  yet  sinners,  Christ  died  for  us.  v.  9.  Much 
more  then  being  now  justified  bv  his  blood,  we  shall  be  saved  from 
wrath  through  him.  v.  10.  For  if  when  we  were  enemies  we  were 
reconciled  to  God  bv  the  death  of  his  Son:  much  more  being  recon- 
ciled, we  shall  be  saved  by  his  life.  v.  19.  For  as  by  one  man's 
disobedience  many  were  made  sinners:  so,  by  the  obedience  of  one 
shall  many  be  made  righteous.  1  Tim.  ii.  5.  For  there  is  one  God, 
and  one  Mediator  between  God  and  men,  the  man  Christ  Jesus;  v. 
6.  Who  gave  himself  a  ransom  for  all,  to  be  testified  in  due  time. 
Heb.  x.  to.  By  the  which  will  we  are  sanctified,  through  the  offer- 


yi  'the  Confession  of  Fait  h.       Chap,  n* 

Yet,  in  as  much  as  he  was  given  by  the  Father  for 
therrijg-  and  his  obedience  and  satisfaction  accepted 
in  their  stead, h  and  both  freely,  not  for  any  thing 
in  them ;  their  justification  is  only  of  free  grace  :i 
that  both  the  exact  justice  and  rich  grace  of  God 
might  be  glorified  in  the  justification  of  sinners./' 

ing  of  the  body  of  Jesus  Christ  once  for  all.  v.  14.  For  by  one 
offering  he  hath  perfect ed  for  ever  them  that  are  sanctified.  Dan.  ix.  24. 
Seventy  weeks  are  determined  upon  thy  people,  and  upon  thy  holy 
city,  to  finish  the  transgression,  and  to  make  an  end  of  sins,  and  to 
make  reconciliation  for  iniquity,  and  to  bring  in  everlasting  righte-* 
ousness,  and  to  seal  up  the  vision  and  prophecy,  and  to  anoint  the 
most  holy.  v.  26.  And  after  threescore  and  two  weeks  shall  Mes- 
siah be  cut  off,  but  not  for  himself:  and  the  people  of  the  prince 
that  shall  come,  shall  destroy  the  city,  and  the  sanctuary,  and  the 
end  thereof  shall  be  with  a  flood,  and  unto  the  end  of  the  war  deso- 
lations are  determined.  Isa.  liii.  4.  Surely  he  hath  born  our  griefs, 
and  carried  our  sorrows  :  yet  we  did  esteem  him  stricken,  smitten  of 
God  and  afflicted,  v.  5.  But  he  was  wounded  for  our  transgressions, 
he  was  bruised  for  our  iniquities :  the  chastisement  of  our  peace  was 
upon  him,  and  with  his  stripes  we  are  healed,  v.  6.  All  we,  like 
sheep,  have  gone  astray :  we  have  turned  every  one  to  his  own  way, 
and  the  Lord  hath  laid  on  him  the  iniquity  of  us  all.  v.  10.  Yet  it 
pleased  the  Lord  to  bruise  him,  he  hath  put  him  to  grief;  when  thou 
shalt  make  his  soul  an  offering  for  sin,  he  shall  see  his  seed,  he  shall 
prolong  his  days,  and  the  pleasure  of  the  Lord  shall  prosper  in  his 
hand.  v.  1 1.  He  shall  see  of  the  travel  of  his  soul,  and  shall  be  sa- 
tisfied :  by  his  knowledge  shall  my  righteous  servant  justify  many : 
for  he  shall  bear  their  iniquities,  v.  12.  Therefore  will  I  divide  him 
a  portion  with  the  great,  and  he  shall  divide  the  spoil  with  the  strong  : 
because  he  hath  poured  out  his  soul  unto  death :  and  he  was  num- 
bered with  the  transgressors,  and  he  bare  the  sin  of  many,  and  made 
intercession  for  the  transgressors. 

g  Rom.  viii.  32.  He  that  spared  not  his  own  Son,  but  delivered  him 
up  for  us  all,  how  shall  he  not  with  him  also  freely  give  us  all  things? 

//  2  Cor.  v.  21.  For  he  hath  made  him  to  be  sin  for  us,  who  knew 
no  sin ;  that  we  might  be  made  the  righteousness  of  God  in  him. 
Mat.  iii.  1  7.  And  lo,  a  voice  from  heaven,  saying,  This  is  my  beloved 
Son,  in  whom  I  am  well  pleased.  Eph.  v.  2.  And  walk  in  love,  as 
Christ  also  hath  loved  us,  and  hath  given  himself  for  us  an  o\\\ ing 
and  a  sacrifice  to  God  for  a  sweet-smelling  savour. 

/  Rom.  iii.  24.  Being  justified  freely  by  his  grace,  through  the 
redemption  that  is  in  Jesus  Christ.  Eph.  i.  7.  li\  whom  we  have 
redemption  through  his  blood,  the  forgiveness  of  sin->  according  to 
the  riches  of  his  grace. 

k  Rom.  iii.  26.  To  declare,  I  say,  at  this  time  hh  righteou 


Chap.  Ii.        ^he  Confession  of  Faith.  73 

IV.  God  did,  from  all  eternity,  decree  to  justify 
all  the  elect:/  and  Christ  did,  in  the  fulness  of 
time,  die  for  their  sins,  and  rise  again  for  their 
justification  :m  nevertheless  they  are  not  justified, 
until  the  Holy  Spirit  doth  in  due  time  actually 
apply  Christ  unto  them.« 

V.  God  doth  continue  to  forgive  the  sins  of 
those  that  are  justified  :o  and  although  they  can 

that  he  might  be  just,  and  the  jiistifier  of  him  which  believeth  in 
Jesus.  Eph.  ii.  7.  That  in  the  ages  to  come  he  might  shew  the  ex- 
ceeding riches  of  his  grace,  in  his  kindness  towards  us,  through 
Christ  Jesus. 

IV.  /  Gal.  iii.  8.  And  the  scripture  foreseeing  that  God  would 
justify  the  heathen  through  faithj  preached  before  the  gospel  unto 
Abraham,  saying,  In  thee  shall  all  nations  be  blessed.  1  Pet.  i.  2. 
Elect  according  to  the  foreknowledge  of  God  the  Father,  through 
sanclification  of  the  Spirit  unto  obedience,  and  sprinkling  of  the 
blood  of  Jesus  Christ,  v.  19.  But  with  the  precious  blood  of  Christ, 
as  of  a  Lamb  without  blemish  and  without  spot:  v.  20.  Who  verily 
was  fore-ordained  before  the  foundation  of  the  world,  but  was  mani- 
fest in  these  last  times  for  you.  Rom.  viii.  30.  Moreover,  whom  he 
did  predestinate,  them  he  also  called  :  and  whom  he  called,  them  he 
also  justified :  and  whom  he  justified,  them  he  also  glorified. 

m  Gal.  iv.  4.  But  when  the  fulness  of  the  time  was  come,  God 
sent  forth  his  Son,  made  of  a  woman,  made  under  the  law.  1  Tim. 
ii.  6.  Who  gave  himself  a  ransom  for  all,  to  be  testified  in  due  time. 
Rom.  iv.  25.  Who  was  delivered  for  our  offences,  and  was  raised 
again  for  our  justification. 

n  Col.  i.  21 .  And  you  that  were  sometime  alienated,  and  enemies 
in  your  mind  by  wicked  works,  yet  now  hath  he  reconciled,  v.  22. 
In  the  body  of  his  flesh  through  death,  to  present  you  holy  and  un- 
blameable,  and  unreproveable  in  his  sight.  Gal.  ii.  16.  (See  letter  c 
immediately  foregoing.)  Tit.  iii.  4.  But  after  that  the  kindness  and 
love  of  God  our  Saviour  toward  man  appeared,  v.  5.  Not  by  works 
of  righteousness  which  we  have  done,  but  according  to  his  mercy 
he  saved  us  by  the  washing  of  regeneration,  and  renewing  of  the 
Holy  Ghost ;  v.  6.  Which  he  shed  on  us  abundantly,  through  Jesus 
Christ  our  Saviour;  y.  7.  That  being  justified  by  his  grace,  we 
should  be  made  heirs  according  to  the  hope  of  eternal  life. 

V.  0  Mat.  vi.  12.  And  forgive  us  our  debts  as  we  forgive  our 
debtors.  1  John  i.  7.  But  if  we  walk  in  the  light,  as  he  is  in  the 
light,  we  have  fellowship  one  with  another,  and  the  blood  of  Jesus 
Christ  his  Son  cleanseth  us  from  all  sin.  v.  9.  If  we  confess  our 
sins,  he  is  faithful  and  just  to  forgive  us  our  sins,  and  to  cleanse  us 
Irom  all  unrighteousness.     1  John  ii.  1.  My   little  children,  these 

K 


74  'the  Confession  of  Faith.       Chap.  n. 

never  fall  from  the  state  of  justification,/)  yet  they 
may  by  their  sins  fall  under  God's  fatherly  dis- 
pleasure, and  not  have  the  light  of  his  counte- 
nance restored  unto  them,  until  they  humble 
themselves,  confess  their  sins,  beg  pardon,  and 
renew  their  faith  and  repentance.^ 

VI.  The  justification  of  believers  under  the  Old 
Testament  was,  in  all  these  respecls,  one  and  the 
same  with  the  justification  of  believers  under  the 
New  Testament./- 

things  write  I  unto  you,  that  ye  sin  not.  And  if  any  man  sin,  we 
have  an  advocate  with  the  Father,  Jesus  Christ  the  righteous,  v.  2. 
And  he  is  the  propitiation  for  our  sins  :  and  not  for  ours  only,  but 
also  for  the  sins  of  the  whole  world. 

p.  Luke  xxii.  32.  But  I  have  prayed  for  thee,  that  thy  faith  fail 
not;  and  when  thou  art  converted,  strengthen  thy  brethren.  John 
x.  28.  And  I  give  unto  them  eternal  life,  and  they  shall  never  perish, 
neither  shall  any  pluck  them  out  of  my  hand.  Heb.  x.  14.  For  by 
one  offering  he  hath  perfected  for  ever  them  that  are  sanctified. 

q  Psal.  lxxxix.  31.  If  they  break  my  statutes  and  keep  not  my 
commandments,  v.  32.  Then  will  I  visit  their  transgression  with 
the  rod,  and  their  iniquity  with  stripes,  v.  33.  Nevertheless,  my 
loving-kindness  will  I  not  utterly  take  from  him,  nor  suffer  my 
faithfulness  to  fail.  Psal.  li.  7.  Purge  me  with  hyssop,  and  I  shall 
be  clean:  wash  me,  and  I  shall  be  whiter  than  the  snow.  v.  8. 
Make  me  to  hear  joy  and  gladness:  that  the  bones  which  thou  hast 
broken  may  rejoice,  v.  9.  Hide  thy  face  from  my  sins;  and  blot 
out  all  mine  iniquities,  v.  10.  Create  in  me  a  clean  heart,  O  God; 
and  renew  a  right  spirit  within  me.  v.  1 1.  Cast  me  not  away  from 
thy  presence;  and  take  not  thy  holy  Spirit  from  me.  v.  12.  Re- 
store unto  me  the  joy  of  thy  salvation:  and  uphold  me  with  thy  free 
Spirit.  Psal.  xxxii.  5.  I  acknowledged  my  sin  unto  thee,  and  mine 
iniquity  have  I  not  hid:  I  said,  1  will  confess  my  transgressions  un- 
to the  Lord  :  and  thou  forgavest  the  iniquity  of  my  sin.  Mat.  xxvi. 
75.  And  Peter  remembered  the  words  of  Jesus,  which  said  unto 
him,  Before  the  cock  crow,  thou  shalt  deny  me  thrice.  And  lie 
went  out,  and  wept  bitterly.  1.  Cor.  xi.  30.  For  this  cause  many 
are  weak  and  sickly  among  you,  and  many  sleep,  v.  32  But  when 
we  are  judged,  we  are  chastened  of  the  Lord,  that  we  should  not  be 
condemned  with  the  wold.  Luke  i.  20.  And  behold,  thou  shalt  be 
dumb,  and  not  able  to  speak,  until  the  day  that  these  things  shall  be 
performed,  because  thou  believest  not  my  words,  which  shall  be 
fulfilled  in  their  season. 

VI.  ;  Gal.  iii.  9.  So  then,  they  which  be  of  faith  ate  blessed  with 


(     75     ) 


Chap.  XII.     Of  Adoption. 

x\LL  those  that  are  justified,  God  vouchsafeth, 
in  and  for  his  only  Son  Jesus  Christ,  to  make 
partakers  of  the  grace  of  adoption  :<z  by  which 
they  are  taken  into  the  number,  and  enjoy  the 
liberties  and  privileges  of  the  children  of  God  \b 
have  his  name  put  upon  them,*:  receive  the  Spirit 
of  adoption;;/  have  access  to  the  throne  of  grace 

faithful  Abraham,  v.  13.  Christ  hath  redeemed  us  from  the  curse 
of  the  law,  being  made  a  curse  for  us:  for  it  is  written,  Cursed  is 
every  one  that  hangeth  on  a  tree:  v.  14.  That  the  blessing  of  Abra- 
ham might  come  on  the  Gentiles  through  Jesus  Christ;  that  we 
might  receive  the  promise  of  the  Spirit  through  faith.  Rom.  iv.  22. 
And  therefore  it  was  imputed  to  him  for  righteousness,  v.  23. 
Now  it  was  not  written  for  his  sake  alone,  that  it  was  imputed  to 
him;  v.  24.  But  for  us  also,  to  whom  it  shall  be  imputed,  if  we 
believe  on  him  that  raised  up  Jesus  our  Lord  from  the  dead.  Heb. 
xiii.  8.  Jesus  Christ  the  same  yesterday,  and  to-day,  and  forever. 

I.  a  Eph.  i.  5.  Having  predestinated  us  unto  the  adoption  of 
children  by  Jesus  Christ  to  himself,  according  to  the  good  pleasure 
of  his  will.  Gal.  iv.  4.  But  when  the  fulness  of  the  time  was  come, 
God  sent  forth  his  Son  made  of  a  woman,  made  under  the  law,  v.  c. 
To  redeem  them  that  were  under  the  law,  that  we  might  receive  the 
adoption  of  sons.  ^. 

b  Rom.  viii.  17.  And  if  children,  then  heirs;  heirs^f  God,  and 
joint  heirs  with  Christ:  if  so  be,  that  we  suffer  with  him,  that  we 
may  be  also  glorified  together.  John  i.  12.  But  as  many  as  received 
him,  to  them  gave  he  power  to  become  the  sons  of  God,  even  to 
them  that  believe  on  his  name. 

c  Jer.  xiv.  9.  Yet  thou,  O  Lord,  art  in  the  midst  of  us,  and  we 
are  called  by  thy  name;  leave  us  not.  2  Cor.  vi.  18.  And  will  be 
a  Father  unto  you,  and  ye  shall  be  my  sons  and  daughters,  saith  the 
Lord  Almighty.  Rev.  iii.  12.  Him  that  overcometh  will  I  make  a 
pillar  in  the  temple  of  my  God,  and  he  shall  go  no  more  out:  and  I 
will  write  upon  him  the  name  of  my  God,  and  the  name  of  the  city 
of  my  God,  which  is  new  Jerusalem,  which  cometh  down  out  of 
heaven  from  my  God:  and  I  will  write  upon  him  my  new  name. 

J  Rom.  viii.  15.  For  ye  have  not  received  the  spirit  of  bondage 
again  to  fear;  but  ye  have  received  the  Spirit  of  adoption,  whereby 
we  cry,  Abba,  Father. 


J 6  *the  Confession  of  Faith.       Chap.  12. 

with  boldness  ;e  are  enabled  to  cry,  Abba,  Fa- 
ther f  are  pitied,^  protected, h  provided  for,/  and 
chastened  by  him  as  by  a  Father;^  yet  never  cast 
off,/  but  sealed  to  the  day  of  redemption,?;*  and 
inherit  the  promises, n  as  heirs  of  everlasting  salr 
vation.0 


c  Eph.  iii.  12.  In  whom  we  have  boldness  and  access  with  confi- 
dence by  the  faith  of  him.  Rom.  v.  ii.  By  whom  also  we  have  ac- 
cess by  faith  into  this  grace  wherein  we  stand,  and  rejoice  in  hope  of 
the  glory  of  God, 

f  Gal.  iv.  6.  And  because  ye  are  sons,  God  hath  sent  forth  the 
Spirit  of  his  Son  into  your  hearts,  crying,  Abba,  Father. 

g  Psal.  ciii.  13.  Like  as  a  father  pitieth  his  children,  so  the  Lord 
pitieth  them  that  fear  him. 

k  Prov.  xiv.  26.  In  the  fear  of  the  Lord  is  strong  confidence:  and 
his  children  shall  have  a  place  of  refuge. 

i  Mat.  vi.  30.  Wherefore  if  God  so  clothe  the  grass  of  the  field, 
which  to-day  is,  and  to-morrow  is  cast  into  the  oven,  shall  he  not 
much  more  clothe  you,  O  ye  of  little  faith?  v.  32.  For  your  hea- 
venly Father  knoweth  that  ye  have  need  of  all  these  things.  1  Pet.  v. 
7.  Casting  all  your  care  upon  him,  for  he  careth  for  you. 

i  Heb.  xii.  6.  For  whom  the  Lord  loveth,  he  chasteneth,  and 
scourgeth  every  son  whom  he  receiveth. 

/  Lam.  iii.  31.  For  the  Lord  will  not  cast  off  forever. 

m  Eph.  iv.  30.  And  grieve  not  the  holy  Spirit  of  God,  whereby 
ve  are  sealed  unto  the  day  of  redemption. 

«  Heb.  vi.  12.  That  ye  be  not  slothful,  but  followers  of  them 
who  through  faith  and  patience  inherit  the  promises. 

0  1  Pet.  i.  3.  Blessed  be  the  God  and  Father  of  our  Lord  Jesus 
Christ,  which  according  to  his  abundant  mercy,  hath  begotten  us 
again  unto  a  lively  hope,  by  the  resurrection  of  Jesus  Christ  from 
the  dead,  v.  4.  To  an  inheritance  incorruptible,  and  undefiled, 
and  that  fadeth  not  away,  reserved  in  heaven  for  you.  Heb.  i.  14. 
Arc  they  not  all  ministring  spirits,  sent  forth  to  minister  for  them 
who  shall  be  heirs  of  salvation  ? 


(    77    ) 


Chap.  XIII.     Of '  Sanflification. 

1.  HEY  who  are  effectually  called  and  resene 
rated,  having  a  new  heart  and  a  new  spirit  crtat  \. 
in  them,  are  farther  sanctified  really  and  person 
ally,  through  the  virtue  of  Christ's  death  and  re 
surre6tion,«  by  his  word  and  Spirit  dwelling  in 
them:^  the  dominion  of  the  whole  body  of  sin  is 
destroyed, c  and  the  several  lusts  thereof  are  more 
and  more  weakened  and  mortified,;/  and   they 
more  and  more  quickened  and  strengthened  in  all 


I.  a  i  Cor.  vi.  ii.  And  such  were  some  of  you :  but  ye  are  wash- 
ed, but  ye  are  sanctified,  but  ye  are  justified  in  the  name  of  the  Lord 
Jesus,  and  by  the  Spirit  of  our  God.  Acts  xx.  32.  And  now,  bre- 
thren, I  commend  you  to  God,  and  to  the  word  of  his  grace,  which 
is  able  to  build  you  up,  and  to  give  you  an  inheritance  among  ail 
them  which  are  sanctified.  Phil.  iii.  10.  That  I  may  know  him, 
and  the  power  of  his  resurrection,  and  the  fellowship  of  his  suffer- 
ings, being  made  conformable  unto  his  death.  Rom.  vi.  5.  For  if 
we  have  been  planted  together  in  the  likeness  of  his  death:  we  shah 
be  also  in  the  likeness  of  his  resurrection :  v.  6.  Knowing  this,  that 
our  old  man  is  crucified  with  him,  that  the  body  of  sin  might  be 
destroyed,  that  henceforth  we  should  not  serve  sin. 

b  John  xvii.  17.  Sanctify  them  through  thy  truth:  thy  word  is 
truth.  Eph.  v.  26.  That  he  might  sanctify  and  cleanse  it  with  the 
washing  of  water  by  the  word.  2  Thess.  ii.  13.  But  we  are  bound 
to  give  thanks  alway  to  God  for  you,  brethren,  beloved  of  the 
Lord,  because  God  hath  from  the  beginning  chosen  you  to  salvation, 
through  salification  of  the  Spirit,  and  belief  of  the  truth. 

c  Rom.  vi.  6.  Knowing  this,  that  our  old  man  is  crucified  with 
him,  that  the  body  of  sin  might  be  destroyed,  that  henceforth  we 
should  not  serve  sin.  v.  14.  For  sin  shall  not  have  dominion  ovtr 
you:  for  ye  are  not  under  the  law,  but  under  grace. 

d  Gal.  v.  24.  And  they  that  are  Christ's  have  crucified  the  flesh, 
with  the  affections  and  lusts.  Rom.  viii.  1  3.  For  if  ye  live  after  the 
flesh,  ye  shall  die:  but  if  ye  through  the  Spirit  do  mortify  the  deedj 
of  the  body,  ye  shall  live. 


y  8  The  Confession  of  Faith.       Chap.  13. 

saving  graces,?  to  the  practice  of  true  holiness, 
without  which  no  man  shall  see  the  Lord/ 

II.  This  sanctification  is  throughout  in  the 
whole  man,g  yet  imperfecl  in  this  life,  there 
abide  still  some  remnants  of  corruption  in  every 
part:/;  whence  ariseth  a  continual  and  irrecon- 
cilable war ;  the  flesh  lusting  against  the  spirit, 
and  the  spirit  against  the  flesh./ 

III.  In  which  war,  although  the  remaining 
corruption  for  a  time  may  much  prevail,^  yet, 

e  Col.  i .  it.  Strengthened  with  all  might  according  to  his  glori- 
ous power,  unto  all  patience  and  long-sutfering  with  joy  fulness. 
Eph.  iii.  16.  That  he  would  grant  you  according  to  the  riches  of  his 
glory,  to  be  strengthened  with  migiit  by  his  Spirit  in  the  inner 
inan.  v.  17.  That  Christ  may  dwell  in  your  hearts  by  faith;  that 
ye  being  rooted  and  grounded  in  love,  v.  18.  May  be  able  to  com- 
prehend with  all  saints,  what  is  the  breadth,  and  length,  and  depth, 
and  height;  v.  19.  And  to  know  the  love  of  Christ,  which  passeth 
knowledge,  that  ye  might  be  filled  with  all  the  fulness  of  God. 

fa.  Cor.  vii.  I.  Having  therefore  these  promises,  dearly  beloved, 
let  us  cleanse  ourselves  from  all  filthiness  of  the  flesh  and  spirit,  per- 
fecting holiness  in  the  iear  of  God.  Heb.  xii.  14.  Follow  peace 
with  all  men,  and  holiness  without  which  no  man  shall  see  the  Lord. 

II.  g  1  Thess.  v.  23.  And  the  very  God  of  peace  sanctify  you 
wholly:  and  I  prav  God  your  whole  spirit  and  soul  and  body  be 
preserved  blameless  unto  the  coming  of  our  Lord  Jesus  Christ 

//  1  John  i.  10.  If  we  say  that  we  have  not  binned,  we  make  him 
a  liar,  and  his  word  is  not  in  us.  Rom.  vii.  16.  For  1  know,  that 
in  me  (that  is,  in  my  flesh)  dwclleth  no  good  thing:  tor  to  will  is 
present  with  me,  but  how  to  perform  that  which  is  good,  I  find  not. 
v.  23.  But  I  see  another  law  in  my  members,  warring  against  the 
law  of  my  mind,  and  I, ringing  me  into  captivity  to  the  law  of  sia 
which  is  in  my  members.  Phil.  iii.  12.  Not  as  though  I  had  already 
attained,  cither  wtre  already  perfect:  but  I  follow  after,  if  that  I 
may  apprehend  that  for  which  also  I  am  apprehended  of  Christ 
Jesus. 

i  Gal.  v.  17.  For  the  flesh  lnstcth  against  the  spirit,  and  the  spirit 
against  the  flesh :  and  these  atr  contrary  the  one  to  the  other;  so  that 
ye  cannot  do  the  things  that  ye  would.  1  l'et.  ii.  11.  Dearly  be- 
loved, I  beseech  you  as  strangers  and  pilgrims,  abstain  from  fleshly 
lusts  which  war  against  the  soul. 

III.  k  Rom.  vii.  23.  But  I  see  another  law  in  my  members,  war- 
ring against  the  law  of  my  mind,  and  bringing  me  into  captivity  to 
the  law  ol  sin  which  is  in  mv  members. 


Chap.  14.        tfhe  Confession  of  Faith.  79 

through  the  continual  supply  of  strength  from 
the  sanctifying  Spirit  of  Christ,  the  regenerate 
part  doth  overcome :/  and  so  the  saints  grow  in 
orace,/»  perfecting  holiness  in  the  fear  of  God.« 


Chap.  XIV.     Of  Saving  Faith. 

JL  HE  grace  of  faith,  whereby  the  elect  are  en- 
abled to  believe  to  the  saving  of  their  souls,#  is 
the  work  of  the  Spirit  of  Christ  in  their  hearts  \b 
and  is  ordinarily  wrought  by  the  ministry  of  the 

/  Rom.  vi.  14.  For  sin  shall  not  have  dominion  over  you:  for  ye 
are  not  under  the  law,  but  under  grace,  i  John  v.  4.  For  whatso- 
ever is  born  of  God,  overcometh  the  world :  and  this  is  the  victory 
that  overcometh  the  world,  even  our  faith.  Eph.  iv.  15.  But  speak- 
ing the  truth  in  love,  may  grow  up  into  him  in  all  things,  which  is 
the  head,  even  Christ:  v.  16.  From  whom  the  whole  body  fitly 
joined  together,  and  compacted  by  that  which  every  joint  supplieth, 
according  to  the  effectual  working  in  the  measure  of  every  part, 
maketh  increase  of  the  body,  unto  the  edifying  of  itself  in  love. 

m  2  Pet.  iii.  18.  But  grow  in  grace,  and  in  the  knowledge  of  our 
Lord  and  Saviour  Jesus  Christ:  to  him  be  glory  both  now  and  for- 
ever. Amen.  2.  Cor.  iii.  18.  But  we  all  with  open  face,  behold- 
ing as  in  a  glass  the  glory  of  the  Lord,  are  changed  into  the  same 
image,  from  glory  to  glory,  even  as  by  the  Spirit  of  the  Lord. 

«  2  Cor.  vii.  1.  Having  therefore  these  promises,  dearly  beloved, 
let  us  cleanse  ourselves  from  all  filthiness  of  the  flesh  and  spirit,  per- 
fecting holiness  in  the  fear  of  God. 

I.  a  Heb.  x.  39.  But  we  are  not  of  them  who  draw  back  unto  per- 
dition; but  of  them  that  believe  to  the  saving  of  the  soul. 

bi  Cor.  iv.  13.  We  having  the  same  spirit  of  faith,  according  as 
it  is  written,  I  believed,  and  therefore  have  I  spoken:  we  also  be- 
lieve, and  therefore  speak.  Eph.  i.  1  7.  That  the  God  of  our  Lord 
Jesus  Christ,  the  Father  of  glory,  may  give  unto  you  the  Spirit  of 
wisdom  and  revelation,  in  the  knowledge  of  him:  v.  18.  The  eyes 
of  your  understanding  being  enlightened;  that  ye  may  know  what  is 
the  hope  of  his  calling,  and  what  the  riches  of  the  glory  of  his  in- 
heritance in  the  saints,  v.  19.  And  what  is  the  exceeding  greatness 
of  his  power  to  us-ward,  who  believe  according  to  the  working  of 
his  mighty  power.  Eph.  ii.  8.  For  by  grace  are  ye  saved,  through 
faith;  and  that  not  of  yourselves :  it  is  the  gift  of  God. 


So  'The  Confession  of  Faith.       Chap.  i\. 

word:c  bv  which  also,  and  bv  the  administration 
of  the  sacraments,  and  prayer,  it  is  increased  and 
strengthened.  ^ 

II.  By  this  faith,  a  Christian  believeth  to  be 
true  whatsoever  is  revealed  in  the  word,  for  the 
authority  of  God  himself  speaking  therein  ;f  and 
actcth  differently  upon  that  which  each  particular 
passage  thereof  containeth;  yielding  obedience  to 
the  commands/'  trembling  at  the  threatenings,g 

c  Rom.  x.  14.  How  then  shall  they  call  on  him  in  whom  they 
have  not  believed  ?  and  how  shall  they  believe  i-n  him  of  whom  they 
have  not  heard?  and  how  shall  they  hear  without  a  preacher r  v.  1  7. 
So  then,  faith  cometh  by  hearing,  and  hearing  by  the  word  of  God. 

d  1  Pet.  ii.  2.  As  new  born  babes  desire  the  sincere  milk  of  the 
word,  that  ye  may  grow  thereby.  Ac~b  xx.  32.  And  now,  brethren, 
I  commend  you  to  God,  and  to  the  word  of  his  grace,  which  is  able 
to  build  you  up,  and  to  give  you  an  inheritance  among  all  them 
which  are  sanctified.  Rom.  iv.  11.  And  he  received  the  sign  of 
circumcision,  a  seal  of  the  righteousness  of  the  faith  which  he  had 
yet  being  uncircumcised;  that  he  might  be  the  father  of  all  them 
that  believe,  though  they  be  not  circumcised;  that  righteousness 
might  be  imputed  unto  them  also.  Luke  xvii.  $.  Anil  the  apostles 
said  unto  the  Lord,  Increase  our  faith.  Rom.  i.  16.  For  1  am  not 
ashamed  of  the  gospel  of  Christ :  for  it  is  the  power  of  God  unto  sal- 
vation, to  every  one  that  believeth  ;  to  the  Jew  first,  and  also  to  the 
Greek,  v.  1 ;.  For  therein  is  the  righteousness  of  God  revealed  from 
faith  to  faith  :  as  it  is  written,  The  just  shall  live  by  faith. 

II.  e  John  iv.  42.  And  said  unto  the  woman,  Now  we  believe, 
not  because  of  thy  saying:  for  we  have  heard  him  ourselves,  and 
know  that  this  is  indeed  the  Christ,  the  Saviour  of  the  world.  1 
Thes.  ii.  1  j.  For  this  cause  also  thank  we  God  without  ceasing,  be- 
cause when  ye  received  the  word  of  God  which  ye  heard  of  u>,  ye 
received  it  not  as  the  word  of  men,  but  (as  it  is  in  truth)  the  word 
ol  God,  whirh  effectually  worketh  also  in  you  that  believe.  1  John 
v.  10.  He  that  believeth  on  the  Son  of  (rod,  hath  the  witness  in 
himself:  he  that  believeth  not  God,  hath  made  him  a  liar,  because 
he  believeth  not  the  record  that  God  gave  of  his  Son.  Acts  xxiv. 
14.  But  this  I  confess  unto  thee,  that  after  the  way  which  they  call 
heresy,  so  worship  1  the  God  oi  niv  fathers,  believing  all  things 
which  are  written  in  the  law  and  the  prophets. 

_/  Rom.  xvi.  26.  But  now  is  made  manilrst,  and  bv  the  scriptures 
ot  the  prophets,  according  to  the  commandment  of  the  everlasting 
God,  made  known  to  all  nations  lor  th^  obedience  of  faith. 

g  Isa.  lxvi.  a.  For  all  those  things  hath  mine  hand  made,  and  all 


Chap.  14.       The  Confession  of  Faith.  81 

and  embracing  the  promises  of  God  for  this  life 
and  that  which  is  to  come./;  But  the  principal 
acts  of  saving  faith  are,  accepting,  receiving,  and 
resting  upon  Christ  alone  for  justification,  sancti- 
ncation,  and  eternal  life,  by  virtue  of  the  cove- 
nant of  grace./ 

III.  This  faith  is  different  in  degrees,  weak  or 
strong  ;£  may  be  often  and  many  ways  assailed 
and  weakened,  but  gets  the  victory ;/  growing 

those  things  have  been,  saith  the  Lord :  but  to  this  man  will  I  look, 
even  to  him  that  is  poor  and  of  a  contrite  spirit,  and  trembleth  at 
my  word. 

h  Heb.  xi.  13.  These  all  died  in  faithj  not  having  received  the 
promises,  but  having  seen  them  afar  off,  and  were  persuaded  of 
them,  and  embraced  them,  and  confessed  that  they  were  strangers 
and  pilgrims  on  the  earth.  1  Tim.  iv.  8.  For  bodily  exercise  pro- 
fiteth  little  :  but  godliness  is  profitable  unto  all  thingSj  having  pro- 
mise of  the  life  that  now  is,  and  of  that  which  is  to  come. 

i  John  i.  12.  But  as  many  as  received  him,  to  them  gave  he 
power  to  become  the  sons  of  God,  even  to  them  that  believe  on  his 
name.  Acts  xvi.  31.  And  they  said,  Believe  on  the  Lord  Jesus 
Christ,  and  thou  shalt  be  saved,  and  thy  house.  Gal.  ii.  20.  I  am 
crucified  with  Christ;  nevertheless  I  live;  yet  not  I,  but  Christ 
liveth  in  me  :  and  the  life  which  I  now  live  in  the  flesh,  I  live  by 
the  faith  of  the  Son  of  God,  who  loved  me,  and  gave  himself  for 
me.  Acts  xv.  1 1 .  But  we  believe  that,  through  the  grace  of  the 
Lord  Jesus  Christ,  we  shall  be  saved  even  as  they. 

III.  k  Heb.  v.  13.  For  every  one  that  useth  milk  is  unskilful  iit 
the  word  of  righteousness:  for  he  is  a  babe.  v.  14.  But  strong  meat 
belongeth  to  them  that  are  full  of  age,  even  those  who,  by  reason 
of  use,  have  their  senses  exercised  to  discern  both  good  and  evil. 
Rom.  iv.  19.  And  being  not  weak  in  faith,  he  considered  not  his 
own  body  now  dead,  when  he  was  about  an  hundred  years  old,  nei- 
ther yet  the  deadness  of  Sara's  womb.  v.  20.  He  staggered  not  at 
the  promise  of  God  through  unbelief;  but  was  strong  in  faith,  giv- 
ing glory  to  God.  Mat.  vi.  30.  Wherefore  if  God  so  clothe  the 
grass  of  the  field,  which  to-day  is,  and  to-morrow  is  cast  into  the 
oven,  shall  he  not  much  more  clothe  you,  O  ye  of  little  faith  > 
Mat.  viii.  10.  When  Jesus  heard  it,  he  marvelled,  and  said  to  them, 
that  followed,  Verily  I  say  unto  you,  I  have  not  found  so  great 
faith,  no  not  in  Israel. 

/  Luke  xxii.  31.  And  the  Lord  said,  Simon,  Simon,  behold,  Sa- 
tan hath  desired  to  have  you,  that  he  may  sift  you  as  wheat:  v.  3s. 
But  I  have  prayed  for  thee,  that  thy  faith  fail  not;  and  when  thou 

L 


8  2  ^he  Confession  of  Faith.       Chap,  r^, 

up  in  many  to  the  attainment  of  a  full  assurance 
through  Christ,^  who  is  both  the  author  and 
finisher  of  our  faith.;/ 


Chap.  XV.    Of  Repentance  unto  Fife. 


R 


EPENTANCE  unto  life  is  an  evangelical 
grace,#  the  doclrine  whereof  is  to  be  preached  by 
every  minister  of  the  gospel,  as  well  as  that  of 
faith  in  Christ. b 

art  converted,  strengthen  thy  brethren.  Eph.  vi.  16.  Above  all, 
taking  the  shield  of  faith,  wherewith  ye  shall  be  able  to  quench  all 
the  fiery  darts  of  the  wicked,  i  John  v.  4.  For  whatsoever  is  born 
of  God  overcome  th  the  world :  and  this  is  the  victory  that  over- 
cometh  the  world,  even  our  faith,  v.  5.  Who  is  he  that  over- 
cometh  the  world,  but  he  that  believeth  that  Jesus  is  the  Son  of 
God? 

m  Heb.  vi.  11.  And  we  desire  that  every  one  of  you  do  shew 
the  same  diligence,  to  the  full  assurance  of  hope  unto  the  end  :  v. 
12.  That  ye  be  not  slothful,  but  followers  of  them  who,  through 
faith  and  patience,  inherit  the  promises.  Heb.  x.  22.  Let  us  draw 
near  with  a  true  heart,  in  full  assurance  of  faith,  having  our  hearts 
sprinkled  from  an  evil  conscience,  and  our  bodies  washed  with  pure 
water.  Col.  ii.  2.  That  their  hearts  might  be  comforted,  being  knit 
together  in  love,  and  unto  all  riches  of  the  full  assurance  of  under- 
standing, to  the  acknowledgment  of  the  mystery  of  God,  and  of 
the  Father,  and  of  Christ. 

n  Heb.  xii.  2.  Looking  unto  Jesus,  the  author  and  finisher  of 
our  faith;  who,  for  the  joy  that  was  set  before  him,  endured  the 
cross,  despising  the  shame,  and  is  set  down  at  the  right  hand  of  the 
throne  of  God. 

I.  a  Zech.  xii.  10.  And  I  will  pour  upon  the  house  of  David, 
and  upon  the  inhabitants  of  Jerusalem,  the  spirit  of  grace  and  of 
supplications,  and  they  shall  look  upon  me  whom  they  have  pierced,. 
and  they  shall  mourn  for  him,  as  one  mourneth  for  his  only  son, 
and  shall  be  in  bitterness  for  him,  as  one  that  is  in  bitterness  for  his. 
first-born.  A&s  xi.  18.  When  thev  heard  these  things,  they  held 
their  peace  and  glorified  God,  saying,  Then  hath  God  also  to  the 
Gentiles  granted  repentance  unto  life. 

b  Luke  xxiv.  47.  And  that  repentance  and  remission  of  sins 
should  be  preached  in  his  name,  among  all  nations,  beginning  at 
Jerusalem.     Mark  i.  15.  And  saying.  The  time  is  fulfilled,  and" 


Chap.  1 5.       fhe  Confession  of  Faith.  S : 

II.  By  it  a  sinner,  out  of  the  sight  and  sense, 
not  only  of  the  danger,  but  also  of  the  rilthiness 
and  odiousness  of  his  sins,  as  contrary  to  the  holy 
nature  and  righteous  law  of  God ;  and  upon  the 
apprehension  of  his  mercy  in  Christ  to  such  as  are 
penitent ;  so  grieves  for  and  hates  his  sins,  as  to 
turn  from  them  all  unto  God,r  purposing  and  en- 

the  kingdom  of  God  is  at  hand :  repent  ye,  and  believe  the  gospel. 
Acts  xx.  at.  Testifying  both  to  the  Jews,  and  also  to  the  Greeks, 
repentance  toward  God,  and  faith  toward  our  Lord  Jesus  Christ. 

II.  c.  Ezek.  xviii.  30.  Therefore  I  will  judge  you,  O  house  of 
Israel,  every  one  according  to  his  ways,  saith  the  Lord  God  :  repent, 
and  turn  yourselves  from  all  your  transgressions;  so  iniquity  shall 
not  be  your  ruin.  v.  3 1.  Cast  away  from  you  all  your  transgressions, 
whereby  ye  have  transgressed,  and  make  you  a  new  heart  and  a  new 
spirit;  for  why  will  ye  die,  O  house  of  Israel?  Ezek.  xxxvi.  31. 
Then  shall  ye  remember  your  own  evil  ways,  and  your  doings  that 
were  not  good,  and  shall  lothe  yourselves  in  your  own  sight,  for  your 
iniquities  and  for  your  abominations.  Isa.  xxx.  22.  Ye  shall  defile 
also  the  covering  of  thy  graven  images  of  silver,  and  the  ornament  of 
thy  moiten  images  of  gold:  thou  shalt  cast  them  away  as  a  men- 
struous  cloth ;  thou  shalt  say  unto  it,  Get  thee  hence.  Psal.  li.  4, 
Against  thee,  thee  only  have  I  sinned,  and  done  this  evil  in  thy 
sight :  that  thou  mightest  be  justified  when  thou  speakest,  and  be 
clear  when  thou  judgest.  Jer.  xxxi.  18.  I  have  surely  heard  Ephraim 
bemoaning  himself  thus:  Thou  hast  chastised  me,  and  I  was  chas- 
tised, as  a  bullock  unaccustomed  to  the  yoke:  turn  thou  me,  and  I 
shall  be  turned;  for  thou  art  the  Lord  my  God.  v.  19.  Surely, 
after  that  I  was  turned,  I  repented;  and  after  that  I  was  instructed, 
I  smote  upon  my  thigh :  I  was  ashamed,  yea,  even  confounded,  be- 
cause I  did  bear  the  reproach  of  my  youth.  Joel  ii.  12.  Therefore 
also  now,  saith  the  Lord,  turn  ye  even  to  me  with  all  your  heart, 
and  with  fasting,  and  with  weeping,  and  with  mourning;  v.  13. 
And  rent  your  heart,  3nd  not  your  garments,  and  turn  unto  the 
Lord  your  God:  for  he  is  gracious  and  merciful,  slow  to  anger,  and 
of  great  kindness,  and  repenteth  him  of  the  evil.  Amos  v.  1 5. 
Hate  the  evil,  and  love  the  good,  and  establish  judgment  in  the  gate: 
it  may  be  that  the  Lord  God  of  hosts  will  be  gracious  unto  the 
remnant  of  Joseph.  Psal.  cxix.  128.  Therefore  I  esteem  all  thy 
precepts  concerning  all  things  to  be  right;  and  I  hate  every  false 
way.  2  Cor.  vii.  1 1.  For  behold,  this  self  same  thing  that  ye  sor- 
rowed after  a  godly  sort,  what  carefulness  it  wrought  in  you,  vea, 
what  clearing  of  yourselves,  yea,  what  indignation,  yea,  what  fear, 
yea,  what  vehement  desire,  yea,  what  zeal,  yea,  what  revenue! 
in  all  things  ye  have  approved  yourselves  to  be  clear  in  this  matter. 


84  tfhe  Confession  of  Faith.       Chap.  15, 

deavouiing  to  walk  with  him  in  all  the  ways  of 
his  commandments.*/ 

III.  Although  repentance  be  not  to  be  rested  in, 
as  any  satisfaction  for  sin,  or  any  cause  of  the  par- 
don thereof,*  which  is  the  act  of  God's  free  grace 
in  Christ  ;f  yet  is  it  of  such  necessity  to  all  sin- 
ners, that  none  may  expect  pardon  without  it.g 


d  Psal.  cxix.  6.  Then  shall  I  not  be  ashamed  when  I  have  respeft 
unto  all  thy  commandments,  v.  59.  I  thought  on  my  ways,  and 
turned  my  feet  unto  thy  testimonies,  v.  106.  I  have  sworn,  and  I 
will  perform  it,  that  I  will  keep  thy  righteous  judgments.  Luke  i. 
6.  And  they  were  both  righteous  before  God,  walking  in  all  the 
commandments  and  ordinances  of  the  Lord,  blameless.  2  Kings 
:xxiii.  25.  And  like  unto  him  was  there  no  king  before  him,  that 
turned  to  the  Lord  with  ah  his  heart,  and  with  all  his  soul,  and  with 
all  his  might,  according  to  all  the  law  of  Moses;  neither  after  him 
arose  there  any  like  him. 

III.  e  Ezek.  xxxvi.  31.  Then  shall  ye  remember  your  own 
evil  ways,  and  your  doings  that  were  not  good,  and  shall  lothe  your- 
selves in  your  own  sight,  for  your  iniquities,  and  for  your  abomi- 
nations, v.  32.  Not  for  your  sakes  do  I  this,  saith  the  Lord  God, 
he  it  known  unto  you:  be  ashamed  and  confounded  for  your  own 
ways,  O  house  of  Israel.  Ezek.  xvi.  61.  Then  thou  shalt  remenv 
ber  thv  ways,  and  be  ashamed,  when  thou  shalt  receive  thy  sisters, 
thine  elder  and  thy  younger;  and  I  will  give  them  unto  thee  for 
tlaughters,  but  not  by  thy  covenant.  \.  62.  And  I  will  establish 
my  covenant  with  thee,  and  thou  shalt  know  that  I  am  the  Lord: 
v.  63.  That  thou  may  est  remember  and  be  confounded,  and  never 
open  thy  mouth  any  more,  because  of  thy  shame,  when  I  am  pa- 
cified toward  thee  tor  all  that  thou  hast  done,  saith  the  Lord  God. 

f  Hos.  xiv.  a.  Take  with  you  words,  and  turn  to  the  Lord:  say 
unto  him,  Take  away  all  iniquity,  and  receive  us  graciously:  so 
will  we  render  the  calves  of  our  lips.  v.  4.  I  will  heal  their  back- 
sliding, I  will  love  them  freely :  fon  mine  anger  is  turned  away  from 
him.  Rom.  iii.  24.  Being  justified  freely  by  his  grace,  through  the 
redemption  that  is  in  Jesus  Christ.  Eph.  i.  7.  In  whom  we  have 
redemption  through  his  blood,  the  forgiveness  of  sins,  according  to 
the  riches  of  his  grace. 

g  Luke  xiii.  3.  I  tell  you,  Nay.  but  except  ye  repent,  ye  shall 
all  likewise  perish,  v.  5.  I  tell  you,  Nay:  but  except  ye  repent, 
ye  shall  all  likewise  perish.  Acls  xvii.  30.  And  the  times  of  this 
ignorance  God  winked  at;  but  now  commandeth  all  men  every 
where  to  repent:  v.  31.  Because  he  hath  appointed  a  day,  in  the 
.    icb  he  will  judge  the  world  in  righteousness,  by  that  man  whom 


Cfcap.  15.       *fhe  Confession  of  Faith.  85 

IV.  As  there  is  no  sin  so  small  but  it  deserves 
damnation  \h  so  there  is  no  sin  so  great,  that  it  can 
bring  damnation  upon  those  who  truly  repent./ 

V.  Men  ought  not  to  content  themselves  with 
a  general  repentance,  but  it  is  every  man's  duty  to 
endeavour  to  repent  of  his  particular  sins  parti - 
cularly.i 

VI.  As  every  man  is  bound  to  make  private 
confession  of  his  sins  to  God,  praying  for  the  par- 
don thereof;/  upon  which,  and  the  forsaking  of 

he  hath  ordained;  whereof  he  hath  given  assurance  unto  all  men, 
in  that  he  hath  raised  him  from  the  dead. 

IV.  h  Rom.  vi.  23.  For  the  wages  of  sin  is  death:  but  the  gift  of 
God  is  eternal  life,  through  Jesus  Christ  our  Lord.  Rom.  v.  12. 
Wherefore,  as  by  one  man  sin  entered  into  the  world,  and  death  by 
sin;  and  bo  death  passed  upon  all  men,  for  that  all  have  sinned. 
Mat.  xii.  36.  But  I  say  unto  you,  that  every  idle  word  that  men, 
shall  speak,  they  shall  give  account  thereof  in  the  day  of  judgment. 

1  Isa.  lv.  7.  Let  the  wicked  forsake  his  way,  and  the  unrighteous 
man  his  thoughts;  and  let  him  return  unto  the  Lord,  and  he  will 
have  mercy  upon  him,  and  to  our  God,  for  he  will  abundantly 
pardon.  Rom.  viii.  1.  There  is,  therefore,  now,  no  condemna- 
tion to  them  which  are  in  Christ  Jesus,  who  walk  not  after  the  flesh, 
but  after  the  Spirit.  Isa.  i.  16.  Wash  ye,  make  you  clean,  put  away 
the  evil  of  your  doings  from  before  mine  eyes,  cease  to  do  evil, 
v.  18.  Come  now,  and  let  us  reason  together,  saith  the  Lord  :  though 
your  sins  be  as  scarlet,  they  shall  be  as  white  as  snow;  though  they 
be  red  like  crimson,  they  shall  be  as  wool. 

V.  k  Psal.  xix.  13.  Keep  back  thy  servant  also  from  presump- 
tuous sins;  let  them  not  have  dominion  over  me:  then  shall  I  be 
upright,  and  I  shall  be  innocent  from  the  great  transgression.  Luke 
xix.  8.  And  Zaccheus  stood,  and  said  unto  the  Lord,  Behold,  Lord, 
the  half  of  my  goods  I  give  to  the  poor:  and  if  I  have  taken  any 
thing  from  any  man  by  false  accusation,  I  restore  him  fourfold,  r 
Tim.  i.  13.  Who  was  before  a  blasphemer,  and  a  persecutor,  and 
injurious.  But  I  obtained  mercy,  because  I  did  it  ignorantlv,  in 
unbelief,  v.  15.  This  is  a  faithful  saying,  and  worthy  of  all  ac- 
ceptation, that  Christ  Jesus  came  into  the  world  to  save  sinners;  of 
whom  I  am  chief. 

VI.  /  Psal.  li.  4.  Against  thee,  thee  only  have  I  sinned,  and  done 
this  evil  in  thy  sight :  that  thou  mightest  be  justified  when  thou 
speakest,  and  be  clear  when  thou  judgest.  v.  5.  Behold,  I  was 
shapenin  iniquity;  and  in  sin  did  my  mother  conceive  me.  v.  7. 
Purge  me  with  hyssop,  and  I  shall  be  clean :  wash  me,  and  I  shall 


86  The  Confession  of  ~  Faith.       Chap.  19. 

them,  he  shall  find  mercy  :m  so  he  that  scanda- 
lized* his  brother,  or  the  church  of  Christ,  ought 
to  be  willing,  by  a  private  or  public  confession 
and  sorrow  for  his  sin,  to  declare  his  repentance 
to  those  that  are  offended  \n  who  are  thereupon 
to  be  reconciled  to  him,  and  in  love  to  receive 
him.o 


Chap.  XVI.     Of  Good  Works. 

VjrOOD  works  are  only  such  as  God  hath  com- 
manded in  his  holy  word,#  and  not  such  as,  with- 

be  whiter  than  snow.  v.  9.  Hide  thy  face  from  my  sins,  and  blot 
out  all  mine  iniquities,  v.  14.  Deliver  me  from  blood-guiltiness,  O 
God,  thou  God  of  mv  salvation  :  and  my  tongue  shall  sing  aloud  of 
thy  righteousness.  Paal.  xxxii.  5.  I  acknowledged  my  sin  unto 
thee,  and  mine  iniquity  have  I  not  hid:  I  said,  I  will  confess  my 
transgressions  unto  the  Lord  :  and  thou  torgavest  the  iniquity  of  my 
sin.  Selah.  v.  6.  For  this  shall  every  one  that  is  godly  pray  unto 
thee,  in  a  time  when  thou  mayest  be  found;  surely  in  the  floods  of 
great  waters  they  shall  not  come  nigh  unto  him. 

m  Prov.  xxviii.  13.  He  that  covereth  his  sins  shall  not  prosper: 
but  whoso  confesseth  and  forsaketh  them  shall  have  mercy.  1  John 
i.  9.  If  we  confess  our  sins,  he  is  faithful  and  just  to  forgive  us  our 
sins,  and  to  cleanse  us  from  all  unrighteousness. 

n  James  v.  16.  Confess  your  faults  one  to  another,  and  pray  one 
for  another,  that  ye  may  be  healed  :  The  effectual  fervent  prayer  of 
a  righteous  man  availeth  much.  Luke  xvii.  3.  Take  heed  to  your- 
selves: If  thy  brother  trespass  against  th<:e,  rebuke  him;  and  if  he 
repent,  forgive  him.  v.  4.  And  if  he  trespass  against  thee  seven 
times  in  a  day,  and  seven  times  in  a  day  turn  again  to  thee,  saying, 
I  repent,  thou  shalt  forgive  him.  Josh.  vii.  19.  And  Joshua  said 
unto  Achan,  My  son,  give,  I  pray  thee,  glory  to  the  Lord  God  of 
Israel,  and  make  confession  unto  him;  and  tell  me  now  what  thou 
hast  done;  hide  it  not  from  me.   (Psal.  li.  throughout.) 

0  2  Cor  ii.  8.  Wherefore  I  beseech  you,  that  ye  would  confirm 
your  love  towards  him. 

I.  a  Micah  vi.  8.  He  hath  shewed  thee,  O  man,  what  is  good ;  and 
what  doth  the  Lord  require  of  thee,  but  to  do  justly,  and  to  love 
mercy,  and  to  walk  humbly  with  thy  God?     Rom.  xii.  2.  And  be 


Chap.  1 6.       tfhe  Confession  of  Faith.  87 

out  the  warrant  thereof,  are  devised  by  men,  out 
of  blind  zeal,  or  upon  any  pretence  of  good  in- 
tention.^ 

II.  These  good  works,  done  in  obedience  to 
God's  commandments,  are  the  fruits  and  eviden- 
ces of  a  true  and  lively  faith  :c  and  by  them  be- 
lievers manifest  their  thankfulness, d  strengthen 


not  conformed  to  this  world  :  but  be  ye  transformed  by  the  renew- 
ing of  your  mind,  that  ye  may  prove  what  is  that  good,  and  ac- 
ceptable, and  perfect  will  of  God.  Heb.  xiii.  21.  Make  you  per- 
fect in  every  good  work,  to  do  his  will,  working  in  you  that  which 
is  well-pleasing  in  his  sight,  through  Jesus  Christ;  to  whom  be 
glory  for  ever  and  ever.     Amen. 

b  Mat.  xv.  9.  But  in  vain  they  do  worship  me,  teaching  for  doc- 
trines the  commandments  of  men.  Isa.  xxix.  1 3.  Wherefore  the 
Lord  said,  Forasmuch  as  this  people  draw  near  me  with  their  mouth, 
and  with  their  lips  do  honour  me,  but  have  removed  their  heart  far 
from  me,  and  their  fear  towards  me  is  taught  by  the  precept  of 
men.  1  Pet.  i.  1 8.  Forasmuch  as  ye  know  that  ye  were  not  re- 
deemed with  corruptible  things,  as  silver  and  gold,  from  your  vain 
conversation  received  bv  tradition  from  your  fathers.  Rom.  x.  2. 
For  I  bear  them  record,  that  they  have  a  zeal  of  God,  but  not  ac- 
cording to  knowledge.  John  xvi.  2.  They  shall  put  you  out  of 
the  synagogues:  yea,  the  time  cometh,  that  whosoever  killeth  you 
will  think  that  he  doth  God  service.  1  Sam.  xv.  21.  But  the  peo- 
ple took  of  the  spoil,  sheep  and  oxen,  the  chief  of  the  things  which 
should  have  been  utterly  destroyed,  to  sacrifice  unto  the  Lord  thy 
God  in  Gilgal.  v.  22.  And  Samuel  said,  Hath  the  Lord  as  great 
delight  in  burnt-offerings  and  sacrifices,  as  in  obeying  the  voice  of 
the  Lord  ?  Behold,  to  obey  is  better  than  sacrifice ;  and  to  hearken, 
than  the  fat  of  rams.  v.  23.  For  rebellion  is  as  the  sin  of  witchcraft, 
and  stubbornness  is  as  iniquity  and  idolatry:  because  thou  hast  re- 
jected the  word  of  the  Lord,  he  hath  also  rejected  thee  from  being 
king. 

II.  c  James  ii.  18.  Yea,  a  man  may  say,  thou  hast  faith,  and  I 
have  works:  shew  me  thy  faith  without  thy  works,  and  I  will  shew 
thee  my  faith  by  my  works,  v.  22.  Seest  thou  how  faith  wrought 
with  his  works,  and  by  works  was  faith  made  perfect? 

d  Psal.  cxvi.  12.  What  shall  I  render  unto  the  Lord  for  all  his 
benefits  towards  me?  v.  13.  I  will  take  the  cup  of  salvation,  and 
call  upon  the  name  of  the  Lord.  1  Pet.  ii.  9.  But  ye  are  a  chosen 
generation,  a  royal  priesthood,  an  holy  nation,  a  peculiar  people; 
that  ye  should  shew  forth  the  praises  of  him  who  hath  called  you  out 
©f  darkness  into  his  marvellous  light. 


83  T7je  Confession  of Faith.       Chap.  1 6. 

their  assurance, ^  edify  their  brethren/'  adorn  the 
profession  of  the  gospel,^  stop  the  mouths  of  the 
adversaries,^  and  glorify  God!,/  whose  workman- 
ship they  are,  created  in  Christ  Jesus  thereunto  \k 

e  i  John  ii.  3.  And  hereby  we  do  know  that  we  know  him,  if 
we  keep  his  commandments,  v.  5.  But  whoso  keepeth  his  word, 
in  him  verily  is  the  love  of  God  perfected:  hereby  know  we  that 
we  are  in  him.  2  Pet.  i.  5.  And  besides  this,  giving  all  diligence, 
add  to  your  faith  virtue;  and  to  virtue  knowledge;  v.  6.  And  to 
knowledge  temperance;  and  to  temperance  patience;  and  to  patience 
godliness;  v.  7.  And  to  godliness  brotherly  kindness;  and  to  bro- 
therly kindness  charity,  v.  8.  For  if  these  things  be  in  you,  and 
abound,  they  make  you  that  ye  shall  neither  be  barren  nor  unfruit- 
iul  in  the  knowledge  of  onr  Lord  Jesus  Christ,  v.  9.  But  he  that 
lacketh  these  things  is  blind,  and  cannot  see  far  off,  and  hath  forgot- 
ten that  he  was  purged  from  his  old  sins.  v.  10.  Wherefore  the 
rather,  brethren,  give  diligence  to  make  your  calling  and  election 
sure:  for  if  ye  do  these  things,  ye  shall  never  fall. 

f  2  Cor.  ix.  2.  For  I  know  the  forwardness  of  your  mind,  for 
which  I  boast  of  you  to  them  of  Macedonia,  that  Achaia  was  ready 
a  year  ago;  and  your  zeal  hath  provoked  very  many.  Mat.  v.  16. 
Let  your  light  so  shine  before  men,  that  they  may  see  your  good 
works,  and  glorify  your  Father  which  is  in  heaven. 

g  Tit.  ii.  5.  To  be  discreet,  chaste,  keepers  at  home,  good,  obe- 
dient to  their  own  husbands,  that  the  word  of  God  be  not  blas- 
phemed, v.  9.  Exhort  servants  to  be  obedient  unto  their  own  mas- 
ters, and  to  please  them  well  in  all  things;  not  answering  again, 
v.  10.  Not  purloining,  but  shewing  all  good  fidelity;  that  they  may 
adorn  the  doctrine  off  God  our  Saviour  in  all  things,  v.  n.  For 
the  grace  of  God  that  bringeth  salvation  hath  appeared  to  all  men; 
v.  12.  Teaching  us,  that  denying  ungodliness,  and  worldly  lusts, 
we  should  live  soberly,  righteously,  and  godly  in  this  present  world. 
1  Tim.  vi.  1.  Let  as  mauy  servants  as  are  under  the  yoke  count 
their  own  masters  worthy  of  all  honour;  that  the  name  ol  God  and 
his  doctrine  be  not  blasphemed. 

//  1  Pet.  ii.  15.  For  so  is  the  will  of  God,  that  with  well-doing  ye 
may  put  to  silence  the  ignorance  of  foolish  men. 

i  1  Pet.  ii.  12.  Having  your  conversation  honest  among  the  Gen- 
tile;,: that  whereas  they  speak  against  you  as  evil-doers,  tlu-y  may, 
by  your  good  works  which  they  shall  behold,  glorify  God  in  the 
day  of  visitation.  Phil.  i.  11.  Being  filled  with  the  fruits  of  righte- 
ousness, which  are  by  Jesus  Christ  unto  the  glory  and  praise  of 
God.  John  xv.  8.  Herein  is  my  father  glorified,  that  ye  bear  much 
fruit,  so  shall  ye  be  my  disciples. 

k  Eph,  ii.  10.  For  we  are  his  workmanship,  created  in  Christ 
Jesus  unto  good  works,  which  God  hath  before  ordained  that  we 
should  walk  in  them. 


Chap.  1 6.       tfhe  Confession  of  Faith,  8p 

that  having  their  fruit  unto  holiness,  they  may 
have  the  end  eternal  life./ 

III.  Their  ability  to  do  good  works  is  not  at 
all  of  themselves,  but  wholly  from  the  Spirit  of 
Christ.w  And  that  they  may  be  enabled  there- 
unto, besides  the  graces  they  have  already  re- 
ceived, there  is  required  an  actual  influence  of 
the  same  Holy  Spirit,  to  work  in  them  to  will  and 
to  do  of  his  good  pleasure  :n  yet  are  they  not 
hereupon  to  grow  negligent,  as  if  they  were  not 
bound  to  perform  any  duty,  unless  upon  a  special 
motion  of  the  Spirit ;  but  they  ought  to  be  dili- 
gent in  ilirring  up  the  grace  of  God  that  is  in 
them.o 

/  Rom.  vi.  22.  But  now  being  made  free  from  sin,  and  become 
servants  to  God,  ye  have  your  fruit  unto  holiness,  and  the  end  ever- 
lasting life. 

III.  m  John  xv.  4.  Abide  in  me,  and  I  in  you.  As  the  branch 
cannot  bear  fruit  of  itself,  except  it  abide  in  the  vine,  no  more  can 
ye,  except  ye  abide  in  me.  v.  £.  I  am  the  vine,  ye  are  the  branches. 
He  that  abideth  in  me,  and  I  in  him,  the  same  bringeth  forth  much 
fruit:  for  without  me  ye  can  do  nothing,  v.  6.  If  a  man  abide  not 
in  me,  he  is  cast  forth  as  a  branch,  and  is  withered;  and  men  ga- 
ther them,  and  cast  them  into  the  fire,  and  they  are  burned.  Ezek. 
xxxvi.  26.  A  new  heart  also  will  I  give  you,  and  a  new  spirit  will 
I  put  within  you,  and  I  will  take  away  the  stony  heart  out  of  your 
flesh,  and  I  will  give  yon  an  heart  of  flesh.,  v.  27.  And  I  will  put 
my  Spirit  within  you,  and  cause  you  to  walk  in  my  statutes,  and  ye 
shall  keep  my  judgments,  and  do  them. 

n  Phil.  ii.  13.  For  it  is  God  which  worketh  in  you,  both  to  will 
and  to  do  of  his  good  pleasure.  Phil.  iv.  13.  I  can  do  all  things 
through  Christ  which  strengthened  me.  2  Cor.  iii.  {.  Not  that 
we  are  sufficient  of  ourselves  to  think  any  thing  as  of  ourselves: 
but  our  sufficiency  is  of  God. 

0  Phil.  ii.  12.  Wherefore,  my  beloved,  as  ye  have  always  obeyed, 
not  as  in  my  presence  only,  but  now  much  more  in  my  absence, 
work  out  your  own  salvation  with  fear  and  trembling.  Heb.  vi.  1 1„ 
And  we  desire  that  every  one  of  you  do  shew  the  same  diligence, 
to  the  full  assurance  of  hope  unto  the  end:  v.  12.  That  ye  be  not 
slothful,  but  followers  of  them  who,  through  faith  and  patience,  in- 
herit the  promises.  2  Pet.  i.  3.  According  as  his  divine  power 
inrh   given  unto  us  all  things  that  pertain  unto  life  and  godliness, 

M 


9  6  The  Confession  of  Faith,       Chap.  1 6, 

IV.  They  who  in  their  obedience  attain  to  the 
greatest  height  which  is  possible  in  this  life,  are 
so  far  from  being  able  to  supererogate  and  to  do 
more  than  God  requires,  as  that  they  fall  short  of 
much  which  in  duty  they  are  bound  to  do.p 

V.  We  cannot,  by  our  best  works,  merit  par- 
don of  sin  or  eternal  life,  at  the  hand  of  God,  by 
reason  of  the  great  disproportion  that  is  between 
them  and  the  glory  to  come,  and  the  infinite  dis- 
tance that  is  between  us  and  God,  whom  by  them 
we  can  neither  profit,  nor  satisfy  for  the  debt  of 


through  the  knowledge  of  him  that  hath  called  us  to  glory  and  vir- 
tue, v.  r.  And  besides  this,  giving  all  diligence,  add  to  your  faith 
virtue;  and  to  virtue  knowledge,  v.  10.  Wherefore  the  ratherf 
brethren,  give  diligence  to  make  your  calling  and  election  sure: 
for  if  ye  do  these  things  ye  shall  never  fall:  r.  is.  For  so  an  en- 
trance shall  be  ministered  unto  you  abundantly,  into  the  everlasting 
kingdom  of  our  Lord  and  Saviour  Jesus  Christ.  Isa.  lxiv.  7.  And 
there  is  none  that  calleth  upon  thy  name,  that  stirreth  up  himself 
to  take  hold  of  thee :  for  thou  hast  hid  thy  face  from  us,  and  hast 
consumed  us  because  of  our  iniquities.  2  Tim.  i.  6.  Wherefore  I 
put  thee  in  remembrance,  that  thou  stir  up  the  gift  of  God  which  is 
in  thee,  by  the  putting  on  of  my  hands.  Ads  xxvi.  6.  And  now 
I  stand,  and  am  judged  for  the  hope  of  the  promise  made  of  God 
unto  our  fathers:  v.  7.  Unto  which  promise  our  twelve  tribes  in- 
stantly serving  God  day  and  night,  hope  to  come;  for  which  hope's 
sake,  king  Agrippa,  I  am  accused  of  the  Jews.  Jude  20.  But  ye, 
beloved,  building  up  yourselves  on  your  most  holy  faith,  praying  in 
the  Holy  Ghost,  v.  21.  Keep  yourselves  in  the  love  of  God,  look- 
ing for  the  mercy  of  our  Lord  Jesus  Christ  unto  eternal  life. 

IV.  Jt  Luke  xvii.  10-.  So  likewise  ye,  when  ye  shall  have  done 
all  those  things  which  are  commanded  you,  say,  We  are  unprofita- 
ble servants:  we  have  done  that  which  was  our  duty  to  do.  Neh. 
xiii.  22.  And  I  commanded  the  Levites  that  they  should  cleanse 
themselves,  and  that  they  should  come  and  keep  the  gates,  to  sanc- 
tify the  Sabbath  day.  Remember  me,  O  my  God,  concerning  this 
also,  and  spare  me  according  to  the  greatness  of  thy  mercy.  Job 
ix.  2.  I  know  it  is  so  of  a  truth:  but  how  should  man  be  just  with 
God?  v.  3.  If  he  will  contend  with  him,  he  cannot  answer  him 
one  of  a  thousand.  Gal.  v.  1  7.  For  the  flesh  lusteth  against  the 
spirit,  and  the  spirit  against  the  flesh:  and  these  are  contrary  the 
«>ne  to  the  other,  so  that  ye  cannot  do  the  things  that  ye  would. 


Chap,  1 6.       fhe  Confession  of  Faith.  91 

our  former  sins  ;q  but  when  we  have  done  all  we 
can,  we  have  done  but  our  duty,  and  are  unpro^ 
friable  servants  ;r  and  because,  as  they  are  good, 
they  proceed  from  his  Spirit  is  and,  as  they  are 
wrought  by  us,  they  are  defiled  and  mixed  with 
so  much  weakness  and  imperfection,  that  they 
cannot  endure  the  severity  of  God's  judgment./ 

V.  a  Rom.  ill .  so.  Therefore,  by  the  deeds  of  the  law,  there 
shall  no  flesh  be  justified  in  his  sight';  for  by  the  law  is  the  know- 
ledge of  sin.  Rom.  iv.  a.  For  if  Abraham  were  justified  by  works, 
he  hath  whereof  to  glory,  but  not  before  God.  v.  4.  Now,  to  him 
that  worketh  is  the  reward  not  reckoned  of  grace,  but  of  debt.  v. 
6.  Even  as  David  also  descrjbeth  the  blessedness  of  the  man  unto 
whom  God  imputeth  righteousness  without  works.  Eph.  ii.  8.  For 
bv  grace  are  ye  saved,  through  faith;  and  that  not  of  yourselves: 
it'  is  the  gift  of  God.  v.  g.  Not  of  works,  lest  any  man  should 
boast.  Tit.  iii.  5.  Not  by  works  of  righteousness  which  we  have 
done,  but  according  to  his  mercy  he  saved  us,  by  the  washing  of 
regeneration,  and  renewing  of  the  Holy  Ghost:  v.  6.  Which  he 
shed  on  us  abundantly,  through  Jesus  Christ  our  Saviour;  v.  7. 
That  being  justified  by  his  grace,  we  should  be  made  heirs  accord- 
ing to  the  hope  of  eternal  life.  Rom.  viii.  18.  For  I  reckon,  that 
the  sufferings  of  this  present  time  are  not  worthy  to  be  compared 
with  the  glory  which  shall  be  revealed  in  us.  Psal.  xvi.  a.  O  my  soul, 
thou  hast  said  unto  the  Lord,  Thou  art  my  God;  my  goodness  ex- 
tendeth  not  to  thee.  Job  xxii.  a.  Can  a  man  be  profitable  unto 
God,  as  he  that  is  wise  may  be  profitable  unto  himself?  v.  3.  Is 
it  any  pleasure  to  the  Almighty  that  thou  art  righteous;  or  is  it  gain 
to  him  that  thou  makest  thy  ways  perfect?  Job  xxxv.  7.  If  thou 
be  righteous,  what  givest  thou  him  ?  or  what  receiveth  he  of  thine 
hand  ?  v.  8.  Thy  wickedness  may  hurt  a  man  as  thou  art,  and  thy 
righteousness  may  profit  the  son  of  man. 

r  Luke  xvii.  10.  (See  letter  Jt  in  this  chapter.) 
s  Gal.  v.  aa.  But  the  fruit  of  the  Spirit  is  love,  joy,  peace,  long- 
suffering,  gentleness, goodness, faith,  v.  a3-  Meekness,  temperance; 
against  such  there  is  no  law. 

/  Isa.  lxiv.  (5.  But  we  are  all  as  an  unclean  thing,  and  all  our 
righteousnesses  are  as  filthy  rags,  and  we  all  do  fade  as  a  leaf;  and 
our  iniquities,  like  the  wind,  have  taken  us  away.  Gal.  v.  17. 
For  the  flesh  lusteth  against  the  spirit,  and  the  spirit  against  the 
flesh :  and  these  are  contrary  the  one  to  the  other,  so  that  ye  cannot 
do  the  things  that  ye  would.  Rom.  vii.  15.  For  that  which  I  do,  I 
allow  not:  for  what  I  would,  that  do  I  not;  but  what  I  hate,  that 
do  I.  v.  18.  I  know,  that  in  me  (that  is,  in  my  flesh)  dwelleth 
no  good  thing :  for  to  will  is  present  with  me,  but  how  to  perform; 


92  'The  Confession  of  Faith.        Chap.  1 6. 

VI.  Yet  notwithstanding,  the  persons  of  be- 
lievers being  accepted  through  Christ,  their  good 
works  also  are  accepted  in  him,i;  not  as  though 
they  were  in  this  life  wholly  unblameable  and  un- 
reproveable  in  God's  sight  ;w  but  that  he,  look- 
ing upon  them  in  his  Son,  is  pleased  to  accept 
and  reward  that  which  is  sincere,  although  ac- 
companied with  many  weaknesses  and  imperfec- 
tions.A: 

that  which  is  good  I  find  not.  Psal.  cxliii.  2.  And  enter  not  into 
judgment  with  thy  servant:  for  in  thy  sight  shall  no  man  living  be 
justified.  Psal.  cxxx.  3.  If  thou,  Lord,  shouldst  mark  iniquities, 
O  Lord,  who  shall  stand  ? 

VI.  v  Eph.  i.  6.  To  the  praise  of  the  glory  of  his  grace,  wherein 
he  hath  made  us  accepted  in  the  Beloved.  1  Pet.  ii.  5.  Ye  also,  as 
lively  stones,  are  built  up  a  spiritual  house,  an  holy  priesthood,  to 
offer  up  spiritual  sacrifices,  acceptable  to  God  by  Jesus  Christ. 
Exod.  xxviii.  38.  And  it  shall  be  upon  Aaron's  forehead,  that  Aaron 
may  bear  the  iniquity  of  the  holy  things  which  the  children  of  Israel 
shall  hallow  in  all  their  holy  gifts:  and  it  shall  be  always  upon  his 
forehead,  that  they  may  be  accepted  before  the  Lord.  Gen.  iv.  4. 
And  Abel,  he  also  brought  of  the  firstlings  of  his  flock,  and  of  the 
fat  thereof:  and  the  Lord  had  respect  unto  Abel,  and  to  his  offer- 
ing. With  Heb.  xi.  4.  By  faith  Abel  offered  unto  God  a  more 
excellent  sacrifice  than  Cain,  by  which  he  obtained  witness  that  he 
was  righteous,  God  testifying  of  his  gifts :  and  by  it  he  being  dead, 
yet  speaketh. 

iu  Job  ix.  20.  If  I  justify  myself,  mine  own  mouth  shall  con- 
demn me:  if  I  say,  I  am  perfect,  it  shall  also  prove  me  perverse. 
Psal.  cxliii.  2.  And  enter  not  into  judgment  with  thy  servant:  for 
in  thy  sight  shall  no  man  living  be  justified. 

x  Heb.  xiii.  20.  Now  the  God  of  peace  that  brought  again  from 
the  dead  our  LoYd  Jesus,  that  great  Shepherd  of  the  sheep,  through 
the  blood  of  the  everlasting  covenant,  v.  21.  Make  you  perfect  in 
every  good  work,  to  do  his  will,  working  in  you  that  which  is  well- 
pleasing  in  his  sight,  through  Jesus  Christ ;  to  whom  be  glory  for 
ever  and  ever.  Amen.  2  Cor.  viii.  12.  For  if  there  be  first  a 
willing  mind,  it  is  accepted  according  to  that  a  man  hath,  and  not 
according  to  that  he  hath  not.  Heb.  vi.  10.  For  God  is  not  un- 
righteous, to  forget  your  work  and  labour  of  love,  which  ye  have 
shewed  toward  his  name,  in  that  ye  have  ministered  to  the  saints, 
and  do  minister.  Mat.  xxv.  21.  His  lord  said  unto  him,  Well 
done,  thou  good  and  faithful  servant;  thou  hast  been  faithiul  over 
a  few  things,  I  will  make  thee  ruler  over  many  things :  enter  thou 


Chap.  1 6.        tfhe  Confession  of  Faith,  oj 

VII.  Works  done  by  unregenerate  men,  al- 
though, for  the  matter  of  them,  they  may  be 
things  which  God  commands,  and  of  good  use 
both  to  themselves  and  others  \y  yet,  because  they 
proceed  not  from  an  heart  purified  by  faith  \%  nor 
are  done  in  a  right  manner,  according  to  the 
word  \a  nor  to  a  right  end,  the  glory  of  God;b 

into  the  joy  of  thy  lord.  v.  23.  His  lord  said  unto  him,  Well 
done,  good  and  faithful  servant;  thou  hast  been  faithful  over  a  few 
things,  I  will  make  thee  ruler  over  many  things :  enter  thou  into 
the  joy  of  thy  lord. 

VII.  y  2  Kings  x.  30.  And  the  Lord  said  unto  Jehu,  Because 
thou  hast  done  well  in  executing  that  which  is  right  iu  mine  eyes, 
and  hast  done  unto  the  house  of  Ahab  according  to  all  that  was  in 
mine  heart,  thy  children  of  the  fourth  generation  shall  sit  on  the 
throne  of  Israel,  v.  31.  But  Jehu  took  no  heed  to  walk  in  the  law 
of  the  Lord  God  of  Israel,  with  all  his  heart :  for  he  departed  not 
from  the  sins  of  Jeroboam,  which  made  Israel  to  sin.  1  Kings  xxi. 
27.  And  it  came  to  pass,  when  Ahab  heard  those  words,  that  he 
rent  his  clothes,  and  put  sackcloth  upon  his  flesh,  and  fasted,  and 
lay  in  sackcloth,  and  went  softly,  v.  29.  Seest  thou  how  Ahab 
humbleth  himself  before  me  ?  because  he  humbleth  himself  before 
me,  I  will  not  bring  the  evil  in  his  days:  but  in  his  sons  days  will 
I  bring  the  evil  upon  his  house.  Phil.  i.  15.  Some,  indeed,  preach 
Christ  even  of  envy  and  strife;  and  some  also  of  good  will:  v.  16. 
The  one  preach  Christ  of  contention,  not  sincerely,  supposing  to 
add  affliction  to  my  bonds,  v.  18.  What  then?  notwithstanding 
every  way,  whether  in  pretence  or  in  truth,  Christ  is  preached; 
and  I  therein  do  rejoice,  yea,  and  will  rejoice. 

z  Gen.  iv.  5.  But  unto  Cain  and  to  his  offering  he  had  not  re- 
spedL  And  Cain  was  very  wroth,  and  his  countenance  fell.  With 
Heb.  xi.  4.  By  faith  Abel  offered  unto  God  a  more  excellent  sacri- 
fice than  Cain,  by  which  he  obtained  witness  that  he  was  righteous, 
God  testifying  of  his  gifts :  and  by  it  he  being  dead,  yet  speaketh. 
Heb.  xi.  6.  But  without  faith  it  is  impossible  to  please' him:  for  he 
that  cometh  to  God  must  believe  that  he  is,  and  that  he  is  a  re- 
warder  of  them  that  diligently  seek  him. 

a  1  Cor.  xiii.  3.  And  though  I  bestow  all  my  goods  to  feed  the 
poor,  and  though  I  give  my  body  to  be  burned,  and  have  not  cha- 
rity, it  profiteth  me  nothing.  Isa.  i.  12.  When  ye  come  to  appear 
before  me,  who  hath  required  this  at  your  hand,  to  tread  my  courts? 

b  Mat.  vi.  2.  Therefore,  when  thou  dost  thine  alms,  do  not 
sound  a  trumpet  before  thee,  as  the  hypocrites  do,  in  the  synagogues, 
and  in  the  streets,  that  they  may  have  glory  of  men.  Verily  I  say 
unto  you,  they  have  their  reward,     v.  5.  And  when  thou  prayest, 


94  The  Confession  of  Faith.       Chap.  1 6. 

they  are  therefore  sinful,  and  cannot  please  God, 
or  make  a  man  meet  to  receive  grace  from  God.r 
And  yet  their  neglecl  of  them  is  more  sinful,  and 
displeasing  unto  God.;/ 

thou  shalt  not  be  as  the  hypocrites  are ;  for  they  love  to  pray,  stand- 
ing in  the  synagogues  and  in  the  corners  of  the  streets,  that  they 
may  be  seen  of  men.  Verily  I  say  unto  you,  they  have  their  re- 
ward.  v.  16.  Moreover,  when  ye  fast,  be  not  as  the  hypocrites,  of 
a  sad  countenance;  for  they  disfigure  their  faces,  that  they  may  ap- 
pear unto  men  to  fast.  Verily  I  say  unto  you,  they  have  their  reward. 

c  Hag.  ii.  14.  Then  answered  Haggai,  and  said,  So  is  this  peo- 
ple, and  so  is  this  nation  before  me,  saith  the  Lord ;  and  so  is  every 
work  of  their  hands,  and  that  which  they  otfer  there  is  unclean. 
Tit.  i.  15.  Unto  the  pure  all  things  are  pure:  but  unto  them  that 
are  defiled,  and  unbelieving,  is  nothing  pure;  but  even  their  mind 
and  conscience  is  defiled.  Amos  v.  21.  I  hate,  I  despise  your  feast- 
days,  and  I  will  not  smell  in  your  solemn  assemblies,  v.  22. 
Though  ye  offer  me  burnt-offerings,  and  your  meat-offerings,  I 
will  not  accept  them  :  neither  will  I  regard  the  peace-offerings  of 
your  fat  beasts.  Hos.  i.  4.  And  the  Lord  said  unto  him,  Call  his 
name  Jezreel ;  for  yet  a  little  while,  and  I  will  avenge  the  blood  of 
Jezreel  upon  the  house  of  Jehu,  and  will  cause  to  cease  the  king- 
dom of  the  house  of  Israel.  Rom.  ix.  16.  So  then  it  is  not  of  him 
that  willeth,  nor  of  him  that  runneth,  but  of  God  that  sheweth 
mercy.  Tit.  iii.  5.  Not  by  works  of  righteousness  which  we  have 
done,  but  according  to  his  mercy  he  saved  us,  by  the  washing  of  re- 
generation, and  renewing  of  the  Holy  Ghost. 

d  Psal.  xiv.  4.  Have  all  the  workers  of  iniquity  no  knowledge? 
who  eat  up  my  people  as  they  eat  bread,  and  call  not  upon  the 
Lord.  Psal.  xxxvi.  3.  The  words  of  his  mouth  are  iniquity  and 
deceit:  he  hath  left  off  to  be  wi>e,  and  to  do  good.  Job  xxi.  14. 
Therefore  they  say  unto  God,  Depart  from  us;  for  we  desire  not 
the  knowledge  of  thy  ways.  v.  1  5.  What  is  the  Almighty,  that 
we  should  serve  him?  and  what  profit  should  we  have  it  we  pray 
unto  him?  Mat.  xxv.  41.  Then  shall  he  say  also  unto  them  on 
the  left  hand,  Depart  from  me,  ye  cursed,  into  everlasting  fire,  pre- 
pared for  the  devil  and  his  angels,  v.  42.  For  I  was  an  hungreJ, 
and  ye  gave  me  no  meat :  1  was  thirsty,  and  ye  gave  me  no  drink: 
v.  43.  I  was  a  stranger,  and  ye  took  me  not  in:  naked,  and  ye 
clothed  me  not:  sick,  and  in  prison,  and  ye  visited  me  not.  v.  45. 
Then  shall  he  answer  them,  saying,  Verily  I  say  unto  you,  in  as  much 
as  ye  did  it  not  to  one  of  the  least  of  these,  ye  did  it  not  to  me.  Mat. 
xxiii.  23.  Wo  unto  you,  scribes  and  Pharisees,  hypocrites;  for  ye 
pay  tithe  of  mint,  and  anise,  and  cummin,  and  have  omitted  the 
weightier  matters  of  the  law,  judgment,  mercy,  and  faith;  these 
ought  ye  to  have  done,  and  not  to  leave  the  other  undone. 


(     95     ) 


1 


Chap.  XVII.  Of  the  Perseverance  of  the  Saints. 


JL  HEY  whom  God  hath  accepted  in  his  Be- 
loved, effectually  called  and  sanctified  by  his  Spi- 
rit, can  neither  totally  nor  finally  fall  away  from 
the  state  of  grace ;  but  shall  certainly  persevere 
therein  to  the  end,  and  be  eternally  saved.* 

II.  This  perseverance  of  the  saints  depends  not 
upon  their  own  free-will,  but  upon  the  immuta- 
bility of  the  decree  of  election,  flowing  from  the 
free  and  unchangeable  love  of  God  the  Father  \b 
upon  the  efficacy  of  the  merit  and  intercession  of 
Jesus  Christ  \c  the  abiding  of  the  Spirit,  and  of  the 

I.  a  Phil.  i.  6.  Being  confident  of  this  very  thing,  that  he  which 
hath  begun  a  good  work  in  you,  will  perform  it  until  the  day  of 
Jesus  Christ.  2  Pet.  i.  ie.  Wherefore  the  rather,  brethren,  give 
diligence  to  make  your  calling  and  election  sure:  for  if  ye  do  these 
things  ye  shall  never  fall.  John  x.  s8.  And  I  give  unto  them 
eternal' life,  and  they  shall  never  perish,  neither  shall  any  pluck 
them  out  of  my  hand.  v.  29.  My  Father  which  gave  them  me  is 
greater  than  all :  and  none  is  able  to  pluck  them  out  of  my  Father's 
hand.  1  John  iii.  9.  Whosoever  is  born  of  God  doth  not  commit 
sin,  for  his  seed  remaineth  in  him:  and  he  cannot  sin,  because  he 
is  born  of  God.  1  Pet.  i.  5.  Who  are  kept  by  the  power  of  God, 
through  faith,  unto  salvation,  ready  to  be  revealed  in  the  last  time. 
v.  9.  Receiving  the  end  of  your  faith,  even  the  salvation  of  your 
souls. 

II.  b  2  Tim.  ii.  18.  Who  concerning  the  truth  have  erred,  say- 
ing, that  the  resurrection  is  past  already  ;  and  overthrow  the  faith  of 
some.  v.  19.  Nevertheless,  the  foundation  of  God  standeth  sure, 
having  this  seal,  The  Lord  knoweth  them  that  are  his.  And,  Let 
everv  one  that  nameth  the  name  of  Christ  depart  from  iniquity.  Jer. 
xxxi'  3.  The  Lord  hath  appeared  of  old  unto  me,  saying,  Yea,  I 
have  loved  thee  with  an  everlasting  love  :  therefore  with  loving  kind- 
ness have  I  drawn  thee. 

c  Heb.  x.  10.  By  the  which  will  we  are  sanctified,  through  the 
offering  of  the  body  of  Jesus  Christ  once  for  all.  v.  14.  For  by  one 
offering  he  hath  perfected  for  ever  them  that  are  sanctified.  Heb.  xiii. 
20.  Now  the  God  of  peace  that  brought  again  from  the  dead  our 


9  6  T'he  Coif ession  of  Faith.       Chap.  17." 

seed  of  God  within  them;*/  and  the  nature  of  the 

Lord  Jesus,  that  great  Shepherd  of  the  sheep,  through  the  blood  of 
the  everlasting  covenant,  v.  21.  Make  you  perfeft  in  every  gcod 
work,  to  do  his  will,  working  in  you  that  which  is  well  pleasing  in 
his  sight,  through  Jesus  Christ;  to  whom  be  glory  for  ever  and  ever, 
Amen.  Hcb.  ix.  12.  Neither  by  the  blood  of  goats  and  calves,  but 
by  his  own  blood  he  entered  in  once  into  the  holy  place,  having  ob- 
tained eternal  redemption  for  us.  v.  13.  For  if  the  blood  of  bulls, 
and  of  goats,  and  the  ashes  of  an  heifer  sprinkling  the  unclean,  sanc- 
tifieth  to  the  purifying  of  the  flesh;  v.  14.  How  much  more  shall 
the  blood  of  Christ,  who,  through  the  eternal  Spirit,  offered  himself 
without  spot  to  God,  purge  your  conscience  from  dead  works  \& 
serve  the  living  God?  v.  15.  And  for  this  cause  he  is  the  Mediator 
of  the  new  testament,  that  by  means  of  death,  for  the  redemption  of 
the  transgressions  that  were  under  the  first  testament,  they  which  are 
called  might  receive  the  promise  of  eternal  inheritance.  Rom.  viii. 
33.  Who  shall  lay  any  thing  to  the  charge  of  God's  elect  ?  It  is  God 
that  justifieth :  v.  34.  Who  is  he  that  condemneth?  It  is  Christ  that 
died,  yea  rather,  that  is  risen  again,  who  is  even  at  the  right  hand  of 
God,  who  also  maketh  intercession  for  us.  v.  35.  Who  shall  sepa- 
rate us  from  the  love  of  Christ?  shall  tribulation,  or  distress,  or  per- 
secution, or  famine,  or  nakedness,  or  peril,  or  sword?  v.  36.  (As  it 
is  written,  For  thy  sake  we  are  killed  all  the  day  long  ;  we  are  ac- 
counted as  sheep  tor  the  slaughter.)  v.  37.  Nay,  in  all  these  things 
■we  are  more  than  conquerors,  through  him  that  loved  us.  v.  38.  For 
I  am  persuaded,  that  neither  death,  nor  life,  nor  angels,  nor  prin- 
cipalities, nor  powers,  nor  things  present,  nor  things  to  come,  v.  39. 
Nor  height,  nor  depth,  nor  any  other  creature,  shall  be  able  to  sepa- 
rate us  from  the  love  of  God  which  is  in  Christ  Jesus  our  Lord. 
John  xvii.  1 1.  And  now  I  am  no  more  in  the  world,  but  these  are 
in  the  world,  and  I  come  to  thee.  Holy  Father,  keep  through  thine 
own  name,  those  whom  thou  hast  given  me,  that  they  may  be  one, 
as  we  are.  v.  24.  Father,  I  will  that  they  also  whom  thou  hast  given 
me,  be  with  me  where  I  am;  that  they  may  behold  my  glory  which 
thou  hast  given  me:  for  thou  lovedst  me  before  the  foundation  of  the 
world.  Luke  xxii.  32.  But  1  have  prayed  for  thee,  that  thy  faith  fail 
not;  and  when  thou  art  converted,  strengthen  thy  brethren.  Heb. 
vii.  25.  Wherefore  he  is  able  also  to  save  them  to  the  uttermost,  that 
come  unto  God  by  him,  seeing  he  ever  livtth  to  make  intercession 
Jor  them. 

d  John  xiv.  16.  And  I  will  pray  the  Father,  and  he  shall  give  you 
another  Comforter,  that  he  may  abide  with  you  tor  ever;  v.  17. 
Even  the  Spirit  of  truth,  whom  the  world  cannot  receive,  because  it 
seeth  him  not,  neither  knoweth  him:  but  ye  know  him,  lor  he 
dwclleth  with  you,  and  shall  be  in  you.  1  John  ii.  27.  But  the 
anointing  which  ye  have  received  of  him,  abideth  in  you  :  and  ye 
i,(  1  d  not  that  any  man  teach  you  :  But,  as  the  same  anointing  teach- 
etb  you  of  all  things,  and  is  truth,  and  is  no  lie:  and  even  as  it  hath 


Chap.  17.       I1  he  Confession  of  Faith.  §j 

covenant  of  grace  :e  from  all  which  ariseth  also 
the  certainty  and  infallibility  thereof/' 

III.  Nevertheless  they  may,  through  the  temp- 
tations of  Satan  and  of  the  world,  the  prevalency 
of  corruption  remaining  in  them,  and  the  neglect 
of  the  means  of  their  preservation,  fall  into 
grievous  sins;^  and  for  a  time  continue  therein  \h 
whereby  they  incur  God's  displeasure,/  and  grieve 
his  Holy  Spirit  ;i  come  to  be  deprived  of  some 

taught  you,  ye  shall  abide  in  him.  1  John  iii.  9.  Whosoever  is 
born  of  Goci,  doth  not  commit  sin,  for  his  seed  remaineth  in  him  : 
and  he  cannot  sin,  because  he  is  born  of  God. 

e  Jer.  xxxii.  40.  And  I  will  make  an  everlasting  covenant  with 
them,  that  I  will  not  turn  away  from  them,  to  do  them  good;  but 
I  will  put  my  fear  in  their  hearts,  that  they  shall  not  depart  from  me. 

f  John  x.  28.  And  I  give  unto  them  eternal  life,  and  they  shall 
never  perish,  neither  shall  any  pluck  them  out  of  my  hand.  2  Thess* 
iii.  3.  But  the  Lord  is  faithful,  who  shall  stablish  you,  and  keep 
you  from  evil.  1  John  ii.  19.  They  went  out  from  us,  but  they 
were  not  of  us:  for  if  they  had  been  of  us,  they  would  no  doubt 
have  continued  with  us:  but  they  went  out,  that  they  might  be 
made  manifest,  that  they  were  not  all  of  us. 

III.  g  Mat.  xxvj.  70.  But  he  denied  before  them  all,  saying,  I 
know  not  what  thou  sayest.  v.  72.  And  again  he  denied  with  an 
oath,  I  do  not  know  the  man.  v.  74.  Then  began  he  to  curse  and  to 
swear,  saying,  I  know  not  the  man.  And  immediately  the  cock  crew. 

//  Fsal.  Ii.  (the  title)  To  the  chief  musician,  a  psalm  of  David, 
when  Nathan  the  prophet  came  unto  him,  after  he  had  gone  in  to 
Bathsheba.  v.  14.  Deliver  me  from  blood-guiltiness,  O  God,  thou. 
God  of  jny  salvation :  and  my  tongue  shall  sing  aloud  of  thy  righte- 
ousness. 

1  Is.  lxiv.  5.  Thou  meetest  him  that  rejoiceth,  and  worketh  righ- 
teousness, tho=e  that  remember  thee  in  thy  ways:  behold,  thou  art 
wroth,  for  we  have  sinned:  in  those  is  continuance,  and  we  shall  be 
saved,  v.  7.  And  there  is  none  that  calleth  upon  thy  name,  that 
stirreth  up  himself  to  take  hold  of  thee:  for  thou  hast  hid  thy  face 
from  us,  and  hast  consumed  us,  because  of  our  iniquities,  v.  9. 
Be  not  wroth  very  sore,  O  Lord,  neither  remember  iniquity  for 
ever:  behold,  see,  we  beseech  thee,  we  are  all  thy  people.  2  Sam. 
xi.  27.  And  when  the  mourning  was  past,  David  sent,  and  fet  her 
to  his  house,  and  she  became  his  wife,  and  bare  him  a  son  :  but  the 
thing  that  David  had  done  displeased  the  Lord. 

k  Eph.  iv.  30.  And  grieve  not  the  holy  Spirit  of  God,  whereby 
ve  are  sealed  unto  the  dav  of  redemption. 

N 


a$  tfhe  Confession  of  Faith.       Chap,  ljj 

measure  of  their  graces  and  comforts ;/  have  their 
hearts  hardened,;??  and  their  consciences  wound- 
ed ;n  hurt  and  scandalize  others, o  and  bring  tem- 
poral judgments  upon  themselves.^* 

/  Psal.  li.  8.  Make  me  to  hear  joy  and  gladness :  that  the  bones 
which  thou  hast  broken  may  rejoice,  v.  10.  Create  in  me  a  clean 
heart,  O  God;  and  renew  a  right  spirit  within  me.  v.  12.  Restore 
unto  me  the  joy  of  thy  salvation;  and  uphold  me  with  thy  free  Spirit. 
Rev.  ii.  4.  Nevertheless.  I  have  somewhat  against  thee,  because 
thou  hast  left  thy  first  love.  Cant.  v.  2.  I  sleep,  but  my  heart  wak- 
eth:  it  is  the  voice  of  my  beloved  that  knocketh,  saying,  Open  to 
me,  my  sister,  my  love,  my  dove,  my  undefiled:  for  my  head  is  filled 
with  dew,  and  my  locks  with  the  drops  of  tne  night,  v.  3.  I  have 
put  off  my  coat,  how  shall  I  put  it  on  ?  I  have  washed  my  feet,  how 
shail  I  defile  them?  v.  4.  My  beloved  put  in  his  hand  by  the  hole 
of  the  door,  and  my  bowels  were  moved  for  him.  v.  6.  I  opened 
to  my  beloved,  but  my  beloved  had  withdrawn  himself,  and  was 
gone:  my  soul  failed  when  he  spake:  I  sought  him,  but  I  could  not 
find  him;  I  called  him,  but  he  gave  me  no  answer. 

m  Isa.  lxiii.  1  7.  O  Lord,  why  hast  thou  made  us  to  err  from  thy 
ways?  and  hardened  our  heart  from  thy  fear?  Return  for  thy  ser- 
vants' sake,  the  tribes  of  thine  inheritance.  Mark  vi.  52.  For  they 
considered  not  the  miracle  of  the  loaves,  for  their  heart  was  hardened. 
Mark  xvi.  14.  Afterward  he  appeared  unto  the  eleven,  as  they  sat  at 
meat,  and  upbraided  them  with  their  unbelief  and  hardness  of  heart, 
because  they  believed  not  them  which  had  seen  him  after  he  was 
risen. 

n  Psal.  xxxii.  3.  When  I  kept  silence,  my  bones  waxed  old; 
through  my  roaring  all  the  day  long.  v.  4.  For  day  and  night  thv 
hand  was  heavy  upon  me:  my  moisture  is  turned  into  the  drought 
of  summer.  Psal  li.  8.  Make  me  to  hear  joy  and  gladness:  that 
the  bones  which  thou  hast  broken  may  rejoice. 

0  2  Sam.  xii.  14.  Howbeit,  because,  by  this  deed  thou  hast  given 
great  occasion  to  the  enemies  ot  the  Lord  to  blaspheme,  the  child 
also  that  is  born  unto  thee  shall  surely  die. 

/  Psal.  lxxxix.  31.  If  they  break  my  statutes,  and  keep  not  my 
commandments;  v.  32.  Then  will  I  visit  their  transgressions  with 
the  rod,  and  their  iniquity  with  stripes.  1  Cor.  xi.  32.  But  when 
we  are  judged,  we  are  chastened  of  the  Lord,  that  wc  should  not  be 
condemned  with  the  world. 


(    99    ) 


Chap.  XVIII.     Of  Assurance  of  Grace  and 
Salvation. 

XjLLTHOUGH  hypocrites,  and  other  unrege- 
nerate  men,  may  vainly  deceive  themselves  with 
false  hopes  and  carnal  presumptions  of  being  in 
the  favour  of  God  and  estate  of  salvation  ;a  which 
hope  of  theirs  shall  perish  ;£  yet  such  as  truly  be- 
lieve in  the  Lord  Jesus,  and  love  him  in  sincerity, 
endeavouring  to  walk  in  all  good  conscience  be- 
fore him,  may  in  this  life  be  certainly  assured 
that  they  are  in  the  state  of  graces  and  may  re- 

I.  a  Job  viii.  13.  So  are  the  paths  of  all  that  forget  God,  and  the 
hypocrite's  hope  shall  perish :  v.  14.  Whose  hope  shall  be  cut  off,  and 
whose  trust  shall  be  a  spider's  web.  Micah  iii.  11.  The  heads 
thereof  judge  for  reward,  and  the  priests  thereof  teach  for  hire,  and 
the  prophets  thereof  divine  for  money:  yet  will  they  lean  upon  the 
Lord  and  say,  Is  not  the  Lord  among  us?  none  evil  can  come  upon 
us.  Deut.  xxix.  19.  And  it  come  to  pass  when  he  heareth  the 
words  of  this  curse,  that  he  bless  himself  in  his  heart,  saying,  I  shall 
have  peace,  though  I  walk  in  the  imagination  of  mine  heart  to  add 
drunkenness  to  thirst.  John  viii.  41.  Ye  do  the  deeds  of  your 
father.  Then  said  they  to  him.  We  be  not  born  of  fornication;  we 
Jiave  one  father,  even  God. 

b  Mat.  vii.  22.  Many  shall  say  to  me  in  that  day,  Lord,  Lord, 
have  we  not  prophesied  in  thy  name?  and  in  thy  name  have  cast 
out  devils?  and  in  thy  name  done  many  wonderful  works?  v.  23. 
And  then  will  I  profess  unto  them,  I  never  knew  you:  depart  from 
me,  ye  that  work  iniquity. 

c  1  John  ii.  3.  And  hereby  we  do  know  that  we  know  him,  if  we 
keep  his  commandments.  1  John  iii.  £4.  We  know  that  we  have 
passed  from  death  unto  life,  because  we  love  the  brethren:  he  that 
loveth  not  his  brother,  abideth  in  death,  v.  18.  My  little  children, 
let  us  not  love  in  word,  neither  in  tongue,  but  in  deed,  and  in  truth. 
v.  19.  And  hereby  we  know  that  we  are  of  the  truth,  and  shall  assure 
our  hearts  before  him.  v.  2 1 .  Beloved,  if  our  heart  condemn  us  not, 
then  have  we  confidence  towards  God.  v.  24.  And  he  that  keepeth 
his  commandments,  dwelleth  in  him,  and  he  in  him  :  and  hereby  we 
know  that  he  abideth  in  us,  by  the  Spirit  that  he  hath  given  us.  r 
John  v.  13,    These  things  have  I  written  unto  vou  that  believe  on 


ioo  T'/je  Confession  of Faith.       Chap.  1 8. 

joice  in  the  hope  of  the   glory  of  God  ;  which 
hope  shall  never  make  them  ashamed. </ 

II.  This  certainty  is  not  a  bare  conjectural  and 
probable  persuasion,  grounded  upon  a  fallible 
hope  \e  but  an  infallible  assurance  of  faith,  founded 
upon  the  divine  truth  of  the  promises  of  salva- 
tion,/" the  inward  evidence  of  those  graces  unto 
which  these  promises  are  made,g  the  testimony 
of  the  Spirit  of  adoption  witnessing  with  our 
spirits  that  we  are  the  children  of  God;/j  which 


the  name  of  the  Son  of  God :  that  ye  may  know  that  ye  have  eternal 
life,  and  that  ye  may  believe  on  the  name  ot  the  Son  of  God. 

d  Rom.  v.  2.  By  whom  also  we  have  access  by  faith  into  this  grace 
wherein  we  stand,  and  rejoice  in  hope  of  the  glory  of  God.  v.  c. 
And  hope  maketh  net  ashamed,  because  the  love  of  God  is  shed 
abroad  in  our  hearts  by  the  Hoh  Ghost  which  is  given  unto  us. 

II.  e  H-b.  vi.  ii.  And  we  desire  that  every  one  of  you  do  shew 
the  same  diligence,  to  the  lull  assurance  of  hope  unto  the  end.  v.  19. 
Which  hope  we  have  as  an  anchor  ot  the  soul,  both  sure  and  sted- 
fast,  and  which  ente ret h  into  that  within  the  vail. 

f  Heb.  vi.  17.  Wherein  God  willing  more  abundantly  to  shew 
unto  the  heirs  of  promise  the  immutability  of  his  counsel,  confirmed 
5t  by  an  oath  :  v.  18.  That  by  two  immutable  things,  in  which  it 
was  impossible  lor  God  to  lie,  we  might  have  a  strong  consolation, 
who  have  fled  for  refuge  to  lay  hold  upon  the  hope  set  before  us. 

g  2  Pet.  i.  4.  Whereby  are  given  unto  us  exceeding  great  and 
precious  promises;  mat  by  ttiese  you  might  be  partakers  ot  the  di- 
vine nature,  having  escaped  the  corruption  that  is  in  the  world  through 
lust.  v.  5.  And  besides  this,  giving  diligence,  add  to  your  faith, 
virtue;  and  to  virtue,  knowledge,  v.  10.  Wherefor-  the  rather, 
brethren,  give  diligence  to  make  your  calling  and  election  sure: 
for  if  ye  do  these  things,  ye  shall  never  fall:  v.  11.  For  so  an  en- 
trance shall  be  ministered  unto  you  abundantly,  into  the  everlasting 
kingdom  of  our  Lord  and  Saviour  Jesu*  Christ.  1  John  ii.  5.  And 
hereby  we  do  know  that  we  know  him,  it  we  keep  his  command- 
ments. 1  John  iii.  14.  We  know  that  we  have  passed  from  death 
unto  life,  because  we  love  the  brethren:  he  that  loveth  not  his 
brother  abidtth  in  death,  a  Cor.  i.  12.  For  our  rejoicing  is  this,  the 
testimony  ot  our  conscience,  that  in  simplicity  and  godly  sincerity, 
not  with  fleshly  wisdom,  but  by  the  grace  of  God,  we  hai'e  had  our 
conversation  in  ihe  world,  and  more  abundantly  to  you-wards. 

/;  Ron.  viii  15.  For  ye  have  not  received  the  Spirit  ot  bondage 
again  to  tear;  but  ye  have  received  the  Spirit  0!  \  whereby 


Chap.  1 8.       The  Confession  of 'Faith.  101 

Spirit  is  the  earnest  of  our  inheritance,  whereby 
We  are  sealed  to  the  day  of  redemption./ 

III.  This  infallible  assurance  doth  not  so  be- 
long to  the  essence  of  faith,  but  that  a  true  be- 
liever may  wait  long,  and  conflict  with  many  dif- 
ficulties, before  he  be  partaker  of  it  \k  yet  being 
enabled  by  the  Spirit  to  know  the  things  which 
are  freely  given  him  of  God,  he  may,  without 
extraordinary  revelation,  in  the  right  use  of  ordi- 
nary means,  attain  thereunto./    And  therefore 

we  cry,  Abba,  Father,  v.  16.  The  Spirit  itself  beareth  witness  with 
our  spirit,  that  we  are  the  children  of  God. 

i  Eph.  i.  13.  In  whom  ye  also  trusted  after  that  ye  heard  the 
word  of  truth,  the  gospel  of  your  salvation:  in  whom  also,  after  that 
ye  believed,  ye  were  sealed  with  that  holy  Spirit  of  promise;  v.  14. 
Which  is  the  earnest  of  our  inheritance,  until  the  redemption  of  the 
purchased  possession,  unto  the  praise  of  his  glory.  Eph.  iv.  30. 
And  grieve  not  the  holy  Spirit  of  God,  whereby  ye  are  sealed  unto 
the  day  of  redemption.  2  Cor.  i.  21.  Now  he  which  stablisheth  us 
with  you  in  Christ,  and  hath  anointed  us,  is  God:  v.  22.  Who  hath 
also  sealed  us,  and  given  the  earnest  of  the  Spirit  in  our  hearts. 

III.  k  1  John  v.  13.  These  things  have  I  written  unto  you  that 
believe  on  the  name  of  the  Son  of  God,  that  ye  may  know  that  ye) 
have  eternal  life,  and  that  ye  may  believe  on  the  name  of  the  Son  of 
God.  lsa.  1.  10.  Who  is  among  you  that  feareth  the  Lord,  that 
obeyeth  the  voice  of  his  servant,  that  walketh  in  darkness,  and  hath 
no  light?  let  him  trust  in  the  name  of  the  Lord,  and  stay  upon  his 
God.  Mark  ix.  24.  And  straightway  the  father  of  the  child  cried 
out,  and  said  with  tears,  Lord,  I  believe;  help  thou  mine  unbelief. 
(See  Psal.  lxxxviii.  throughout.    Psal.  lxxvii.  to  the  12th  verse.) 

/  1  Cor.ii.  ia.  Now  we  have  received,  not  the  spirit  of  the  world, 
but  the  Spirit  which  is  of  God;  that  we  might  know  the  things  that 
are  freely  given  to  us  of  God.  1  John  iv.  13.  Hereby  know  we, 
that  we  dwell  in  him,  and  he  in  us,  because  he  hath  given  us  of  his 
Spirit.  Heb.  vi.  11.  And  we  desire  that  every  one  of  you  do  shew 
the  same  diligence,  to  the  full  assurance  of  hope  unto  the  end:  v.  12. 
That  you  be  not  slothful,  but  followers  of  them  who,  through  faith 
and  patience,  inherit  the  promises.  Eph.  ill-  17.  That  Christ  may 
dwell  in  your  hearts  by  faith;  that  ye  being  rooted  and  grounded 
in  love,  v.  18.  May  be  able  to  comprehend  with  all  saints,  what  is 
the  breadth, and  length,  and  depth,  and  height;  v.  19.  And  to  know 
the  love  of  Christ,  which  passeth  knowledge,  that  ye  might  be  filled 
with  all  the  fulness  of  God. 


.102  The  Confession  of Faith.       Chap.  ;  8. 

it  is  the  duty  of  every  one,  to  give  all  diligence 
to  make  his  calling  and  election  sure;w  that 
thereby  his  heart  may  be  enlarged  in  peace  and 
joy  in  the  Holy  Ghost,  in  love  and  thankfulness 
to  God,  and  in  strength  and  cheerfulness  in  the 
duties  of  obedience,  the  proper  fruits  of  this  asr 
surance  \n  so  far  is  it  from  inclining  men  to  loose- 
ness, o 


vi  2  Pet.  i.  io.  Wherefore  the  rather,  brethren,  give  diligence  to 
make  your  calling  and  election  sure:  for  if  ye  do  these  things,  ye 
shall  never  fall. 

«  Rom.  v.  i.  Therefore  being  justified  by  faith,  we  have  peace 
•with  God,  through  our  Lord  Jesus  Christ;  v.  2.  By  whom  also  we 
have  access  bv  faith  unto  this  grace  wherein  we  stand,  and  rejoice  in 
hope  of  the  glory  of  God.  v.  5.  And  hope  maketh  not  ashamed, 
because  the  love  of  God  is  shed  abroad  in  our  hearts  by  the  Holy 
Ghost  which  is  given  unto  us.  Rom.  xiv.  17.  For  the  kingdom  of 
God  is  not  meat  and  drink,  but  righteousness,  and  peace,  and  joy  in 
the  Holy  Ghost.  Rom.  xv.  1 3.  Now  the  God  of  hope  fill  you  with 
all  joy  and  peace  in  believing,  that  ye  may  abound  in  hope,  through 
the  power  of  the  Holy  Ghost.  Eph.  i.  3.  Blessed  be  the  God  and 
Father  of  our  Lord  Jesus  Christ,  who  hath  blessed  us  with  all  spi- 
ritual blessings  in  heavenly  places  in  Christ :  v.  4.  According  as  he 
bath  chosen  us  in  him  before  the  foundation  of  the  world,  that  we 
should  be  holv,  and  without  blame  bttore  him  in  love.  Psal.  iv.  6. 
There  be  many  that  say,  Who  will  shew  us  any  good?  Lord,  lift 
thou  up  the  light  of  thy  countenance  upon  us.  v.  7.  Thou  hast  put 
gladness  in  my  heart,  more  than  in  the  time  that  their  corn  and  their 
wine  increased.  Psal.  cxix.  32.  I  will  run  the  way  of  thy  command- 
ments, when  rhou  shalt  enlarge  my  heart. 

0  1  John  ii.  1.  My  little  children,  these  things  write  I  unto  you, 
that  ye  sin  not.  And  if  any  man  sin,  we  have  an  Advocate  with  the 
Father,  Jesus  Christ  the  righteous ;  v.  2.  And  he  is  the  propitiation 
for  our  sins :  and  not  for  ours  only,  but  also  for  the  sins  of  the  whole 
world.  Rom.  vi.  1.  What  shall  we  say  then  ?  shall  we.  continue  in 
sin,  that  grace  may  abound?  v.  2.  God  forbid:  how  shall  we  that 
are  dead  to  sin,  live  any  longer  therein  ?  Tit.  ii.  11.  For  the  grace  of 
God  that  bringeth  salvation  hath  appeared  to  all  men  ;  v.  12.  Peach- 
ing us,  that  denying  ungodliness,  and  worldly  lusts,  we  should  live 
soberly,  righteously,  and  godly  in  this  present  world,  v.  14.  Who 
gave  himself  for  us,  that  he  might  redeem  us  from  all  iniquity,  and 
purify  unto  himself  a  peculiar  people,  zealous  of  good  works.  2  Cor. 
vii.  1.  Having  therefore  these  promises,  dearly  beloved,  let  us  cleanse 
ourselves  from  all  filthiness  of  the  flesh  and  spirit,  perfecting  hplj- 


Chap.  1 8.       tfhe  Confession  of  Faith,  idj 

IV.  True  believers  may  have  the  assurance  of 
their  salvation  divers  ways  shaken,  diminished, 
and  intermitted:  as,  by  negligence  in  preserving 
of  it,  by  falling  into  some  special  sin,  which 
woundeth  the  conscience,  and  grieveth  the  Spirit ; 
by  some  sudden  or  vehement  temptation;  by 
God's  withdrawing  the  light  of  his  countenance, 
and  suffering;  even  such  as  fear  him  to  walk  in 
darkness,  and  to  have  no  light  :p  yet  are  they  ne- 

ness  in  the  fear  of  God.  Rom.  viii.  i.  There  is  therefore  now  no  con- 
demnation to  them  which  are  in  Christ  Jesus,  who  walk  not  after  the 
flesh,  but  after  the  Spirit,  v.  12.  Therefore,  brethren,  we  are  debtors, 
not  to  the  flesh  to  live  after  the  flesh.  1  John  iii.  2.  Beloved,  now 
are  we  the  sons  of  God,  and  it  doth  not  yet  appear  what  we  shall  be  : 
but  we  know,  that  when  he  shall  appear,  we  shall  be  like  him ;  for 
we  shall  see  him  as  he  is.  v.  3.  And  every  man  that  hath  this  hope 
in  him,  purifietlv  himself,  even  as  he  is  pure.  Psal.  exxx.  4.  But 
there  is  forgiveness  with  thee,  that  thou  mayest  be  feared.  1  John  i. 
6.  If  we  say  that  we  have  fellowship  with  him,  and  walk  in  dark- 
ness, we  lie,  and  do  not  the  truth  :  v.  7.  But  if  we  walk  in  the  light, 
as  he  is  in  the  light,  we  have  fellowship  one  with  another,  and  the 
blood  of  Jesus  Christ  his  Son  cleanseth  us  from  all  sin. 

IV.  p.  Cant.  iv.  2.  I  sleep,  but  my  heart  waketh:  it  is  the  voice 
of  my  beloved  that  knocketh,  saying,  Open  to  me  my  sister,  my  love, 
my  dove,  my  undefiled :  for  my  head  is  filled  with  dew,  and  my 
locks  with  the  drops  of  the  night,  v.  3.  I  have  put  off  my  coat,  how 
shall  I  put  it  on  ?  I  have  washed  my  feet,  how  shall  I  defile  them  ? 
v.  6.  I  opened  to  my  beloved,  but  my  beloved  had  withdrawn  him- 
self, and  was  gone:  my  soul  failed  when  he  spake:  I  sought  him, 
but  I  could  not  find  him  ;  I  called  him,  but  he  gave  me  no  answer. 
Psal.  li.  8.  Make  me  to  hear  joy  and  gladness:  that  the  bones  which 
thou  hast  broken,  may  rejoice,  v.  12.  Restore  unto  me  the  joy  of 
thy  salvation  :  and  uphold  me  with  thy  free  Spirit,  v.  14.  Deliver 
me  from  blood-guiltiness,  O  God,  thou  God  of  my  salvation  :  and 
my  tongue  shall  sing  aloud  of  thy  righteousness.  Eph.  iv.  30.  And 
grieve  not  the  holy  Spirit  of  God,  whereby  you  are  sealed  unto  the 
day  of  redemption,  v.  31.  Let  all  bitterness,  and  wrath,  and  anoer, 
and  clamour,  and  evil-speaking,  be  put  away  from  yea,  with  all  ma- 
lice. Psal.  fxxvii.  1.  I  cried  unto  God  with  my  voice:  even  unto 
God  with  my  voice,  and  he  gave  ear  unto  me.  v.  2  In  the  day  of 
my  trouble  I  sought  the  Lord ;  my  sore  ran  in  the  night,  and  ceased 
not:  my  soul  refused  to  be  comforted,  v.  3.  I  remembered  God, 
and  was  troubled  :  I  complained,  and  my  spirit  was  overwhelmed. 
Selah.  v.  4.  Thou  holdest  mine  eyes  waking:  I  am  so  troubled  that 


104  'the  Confession  of  Faith,       Chap.  1 8* 

ver  utterly  destitute  of  that  seed  of  God,  and  life 
of  faith,  that  love  of  Christ  and  the  brethren, 
that  sincerity  of  heart  and  conscience  of  duty,  out 
of  which,  by  the  operation  of  the  Spirit,  this  as- 
surance may  in  due  time  be  revived, q  and  by  the 
which,  in  the  mean  time,  they  are  supported  from 
utter  despair.r 

I  cannot  speak,  v.  c.  I  have  considered  the  days  of  old,  the  years 
of  ancient  times,  v.  6.  I  call  to  remembrance  my  song  in  the  night ; 
I  commune  with  mine  own  heart,  and  my  spirit  made  diligent  search, 
v.  7.  Will  the  Lord  cast  off  tor  ever  ?  and  will  he  be  favourable  no 
more?  v.  8.  Is  his  mercy  clean  gone  for  ever?  doth  bis  promise  fail 
for  evermore?  v.  9.  Hath  God  forgotten  to  be  gracious?  hath  he 
in  anger  shut  up  hi*  tender  mercies?  Selah.  v.  10.  And  I  said,  This 
is  my  infirmity:  but  I  will  remember  the  years  of  the  right  hand  of 
the  Most  High.  Mat.  xxvi.  69.  Now  Peter  sat  without  in  the  pa- 
lace :  and  a  damsel  came  unto  him,  saying,  Thou  also  wast  with  Je- 
sus of  Galilee,  v.  70.  But  he  denied  before  them  all,  saying,  I  know 
not  what  thou  sayest.  v.  71.  And  when  he  was  gone  out  into  the 
porch,  another  maid  saw  him,  and  said  unto  them  that  were  there, 
This  fellow  was  also  with  Jesus  of  Nazareth,  v.  72.  And  again  he 
denied  with  an  oath,  I  do  not  know  the  man.  Psal.  xxxi.  22.  For  I 
said  in  my  haste,  I  am  cut  off  from  before  thine  eyes:  nevertheless 
thou  heardest  the  voice  of  my  supplications,  when  I  cried  unto  thee. 
(Psal.  lxxxviii.  throughout.)  Isa.  I.  10.  Who  is  among  you  that 
feareth  the  Lord,  that  obeyeth  the  voice  of  his  servant,  that  walketh 
in  darkness,  and  hath  no  light  ?  let  him  trust  in  the  name  of  the 
Lord,  and  stay  upon  his  God. 

q  1  John  iii.  9.  WThosoever  is  born  of  God,  doth  not  commit  sin, 
for  his  seed  remaineth  in  him  :  and  he  cannot  sin,  because  he  is  born 
of  God.  Luke  xxii.  32.  But  I  have  prayed  for  thee  that  thy  faith 
fail  not;  and  when  thou  art  converted,  strengthen  thy  brethren. 
Job  xiii.  15.  Though  he  slay  me,  yet  will  I  trust  in  him:  but  I  will 
maintain  mine  own  ways  before  him.  Psal.  lxxiii.  15.  It  I  say,  I 
will  speak  thus:  behold,  I  should  offend  against  the  generation  of 
thy  children.  Psal.  li.  8,  12.  (See  letter//  immediately  before.)  Isa. 
I.  10.  (See  letter// immediately  foregoing.) 

r  Mic.  vii.  7.  Therefore  I  will  look  unto  the  Lord:  I  will  wait 
for  the  God  of  my  salvation:  my  God  will  hear  me.  v.  8.  Rejoice 
not  against  me,  O  mine  enemy:  when  1  fall,  I  shall  arise;  when  I 
sit  in  darkness,  the  Lord  shall  be  a  light  unto  me.  v.  9.  I  will  bear 
the  indignation  of  the  Lord,  because  I  have  sinned  igainst  him,  un- 
til he  plead  my  cause,  and  execute  judgment  tor  me:  he  will  bring 
me  forth  to  the  light,  and  I  shall  behold  his  righteousness.  Jer. 
audi.  40.  And  I  will  make  an  everlasting  covenant  with  them, 


(      *°5     ) 


Chap.  XIX.     Of  the  Law  of  God. 

VxOD  gave  to  Adam  a  law,  as  a  covenant  of 
works,  by  which  he  bound  him,  and  all  his  pos- 
terity, to  personal,  entire,  exact,  and  perpetual 
obedience,  promised  life  upon  the  fulfilling,  and 
threatened  death  upon  the  breach  of  it ;  and  en- 
dued him  with  power  and  ability  to  keep  it.a 

I  will  not  turn  away  from  them,  to  do  them  good;  but!  will  put 
my  fear  in  their  hearts,  that  they  shall  not  depart  from  me.  Isa.  liv.  7; 
For  a  small  moment  have  I  forsaken  thee,  but  with  great  mercies 
will  I  gather  thee.  v.  8.  In  a  little  wrath  I  hid  my  face  from  thee 
for  a  moment;  but  with  everlasting  kindness  will  I  have  mercy  on 
thee,  saith  the  Lord  thy  Redeemer,  v.  9.  For  this  is  as  the  waters 
of  Noah  unto  me :  for  as  I  have  sworn  that  the  waters  of  Noah 
should  no  more  go  over  the  earth,  so  have  I  sworn  that  I  would  not 
be  wroth  with  thee,  nor  rebuke  thee.  v.  10.  For  the  mountains 
shall  depart,  and  the  hills  be  removed,  but  my  kindness  shall  not 
depart  from  thee,  neither  shall  the  covenant  of  my  peace  be  remov- 
ed, saith  the  Lord,  that  hath  mercy  on  thee.  Psal.  xxii.  1.  My 
God,  my  God,  why  hast  thou  forsaken  me?  why  art  thou  so  far 
from  helping  me,  and  from  the  words  of  my  roaring?  (Psal. 
lxxxviii.  throughout.) 

I.  a  Gen.  i.  26.  And  God  said,  Let  us  make  man  in  our  image* 
after  our  likeness:  and  let  them  have  dominion  over  the  fish  of  the 
sea,  and  over  the  fowl  of  the  air,  and  over  the  cattle,  and  over  all  the. 
earth,  and  over  every  creeping  thing  that  creepeth  upon  the  earth, 
v.  27.  So  God  created  man  in  his  own  image;  in  the  image  of 
God  created  he  him:  male  and  female  created  he  them.  With 
Gen.  ii.  1  7.  But  of  the  tree  of  the  knowledge  of  good  and  evil, 
thou  shalt  not  eat  of  it:  for  in  the  day  that  thou  eatest  thereof,  thou 
shalt  surely  die.  Rom.  ii.  14.  For  when  the  Gentiles,  which  have 
not  the  law,  do  by  nature  the  things  contained  in  the  law,  these 
having  not  the  law,  are  a  law  unto  themselves:  v.  15.  Which  shew 
the  work  of  the  law  written  in  their  hearts,  their  conscience  also 
bearing  witness,  and  their  thoughts  the  mean  while  accusing  or  else 
excusing  one  another.  Rom.  x.  5.  For  Moses  describeth  the  righ- 
teousness which  is  of  the  law,  That  the  man  which  doth  those  things 
shall  live  by  them.  Rom.  v.  12.  Wherefore  as  by  one  man  sin  enter- 
ed into  the  world,  and  death  by  sin;  and  so  death  passed  upon  all 
men,  for  that  all  have  sinned,  v.  19.  Fcr  as  by  one  man's  disobedi- 
ence many  were  made  sinners :  so  by  the  obedience  of  one  shall  many 
be  made  righteous,     Gal.  iii.  10.  For  as  many  as  are  of  the  works  cf 

o 


2o6  tfhe  Confession  of  Faith.       Chap.  ro^ 

II.  This  law,  after  his  fall,  continued  to  be  a 
perfect  rule  of  righteousness :  and,  as  such,  was 
delivered  by  God  upon  mount  Sinai  in  ten  com- 
mandments, and  written  in  two  tables  ;£  the 
four  first  commandments  containing  our  duty  to- 
wards God,  and  the  other  six  our  duty  towards 
man.c 

the  law,  are  under  the  curse:  for  it  is  written,  Cursed  is  every  one  that 
Continueth  not  in  all  things  which  are  written  in  the  book  of  the  law 
to  do  them.  v.  12.  And  the  law  is  not  of  faith:  but,  The  man  that 
doth  them  shall  live  in  them.  Eccl.  vii.  29.  Lo,  this  only  have  I 
found,  that  God  hath  made  man  upright;  but  they  have  sought  out 
many  inventions.  Job  xxviii.  28.  And  unto  man  he  said,  Behold 
the  fear  of  the  Lord,  that  is  wisdom;  and  to  depart  from  evil,  is  un- 
derstanding. 

II.  b  James  i.  25.  Rut  whoso  locketh  into  the  perfeft  law  of  li- 
berty, and  continueth  therein,  he  being  not  a  forgetful  hearer,  but  a. 
doer  of  the  work,  this  man  shall  be  blessed  in  his  deed.  James  ii. 
9.  If  ye  fulfil  the  royal  law  according  to  the  scripture,  Thou  shalt 
love  thy  neighbour  as  thyself,  ye  do  well.  v.  10.  For  whosoever 
shall  keep  the  whole  law,  and  yet  offend  in  one  point,  he  is  guilty  of 
all.  v.  11.  For  he  that  said,  Do  not  commit  adultery,  said  alsoy 
Do  not  kill.  Now  if  thou  commit  no  adultery,  yet  if  thou  kill, 
thou  art  become  a  transgressor  of  the  law.  v.  12.  So  speak  ye,  and 
so  do,  as  they  that  shall  be  judged  by  the  law  of  liberty.  Rom.  xiii. 
8.  Owe  no  man  any  thing  but  to  love  one  another:  for  he  that  loveth 
another  hath  fulfilled  the  law.  v.  9.  For  this,  Thou  shalt  not  com- 
mit adultery,  Thou  shalt  not  kill, 'Thou  shalt  not  steal,  Thou  shalt 
not  bear  false  witness,  Thou  shak  not  covet;  and  if  there  be  any 
other  commandment,  it  is  briefly  comprehended  in  this  saying, 
namely,  Thou  shalt  love  thy  neighbour  as  thyself.  Deut.  v.  32.  Ye 
shall  observe  to  do  therefore  as  the  Lord  your  God  hath  commanded 
you:  you  shall  not  turn  aside  to  the  right  hand  or  to  the  left.  Deut. 
x.  4.  And  he  wrote  on  the  tables,  according  to  the  first  writing, 
the  ten  commandments,  which  the  Lord  spake  unto  you  in  the 
mount,  out  of  the  midst  of  the  fire,  in  the  day  of  the  assembly:  and 
the  Lord  gave  them  unto  me.  Exod.  xxxiv.  1.  And  the  Lord  said 
unto  Moses,  Hew  thee  two  tables  of  stone  like  unto  the  first:  and 
I  will  write  upon  these  tables  the  words  that  were  in  the  first  tables 
which  thou  brakest. 

c  Mat.  xxii.  37.  Jesus  said  unto  him,  Thou  shalt  love  the  Lord 
thy  God  with  all  thy  heart,  and  with  all  thy  soul,  and  with  all  thy 
mind.  v.  38.  This  is  the  first  and  great  commandment,  v.  39. 
And  the  second  is  like  unto  it,  Thou  shalt  love  thy  neighbour  as 
thyself,  v.  40.  On  these  two  commandments  hang  all  the  law  and 
Che  prophets. 


Chap,  i  9 .       tfhe  Confession  of  Faith.  i  o  7 

III.  Besides  this  law,  commonly  called  Moral, 
God  was  pleased  to  give  to  the  people  of  Israel, 
as  a  church  under  age,  ceremonial  laws,  con- 
taining several  typical  ordinances,  partly  of  wor- 
ship, prefiguring  Christ,  his  graces,  actions,  suf- 
ferings, and  benefits  \d  and  partly  holding  forth 
divers  instructions  of  moral  duties.^  All  which 
ceremonial  laws  are  now  abrogated  under  the 
New  Testament/' 

IV.  To  them  also,  as  a  body-politic,  he  gave 
sundry  judicial   laws,    which  expired  together 

III.  d  (Heb.  ix.  chapter)  Heb.  x.  i.  For  the  law  having  a  sha- 
dow of  good  things  to  come,  and  not  the  very  image  of  the  things, 
can  never,  with  those  sacrifices  which  they  oifered  year  by  year  con- 
tinually, make  the  comers  thereunto  perfecl.  Gal.  iv.  i .  Now  I 
say,  that  the  heir,  as  long  as  he  is  a  child,  differeth  nothing  from  a 
servant,  though  he  be  lord  of  all  ;  v.  a.  But  is  under  tutors  and  go- 
vernors until  the  time  appointed  of  the  father,  v.  3.  Even  so  we, 
when  we  were  children,  were  in  bondage  under  the  elements  of  the 
world.  Col.  ii.  1 7.  Which  are  a  shadow  of  things  to  come;  but 
the  body  is  of  Christ. 

e  1  Cor.  v.  7.  Purge  out  therefore  the  old  leaven,  that  ye  may  be 
a  new  lump,  as  ye  are  unleavened:  for  even  Christ  our  passover  is 
sacrificed  for  us.  2  Cor.  vi.  1 7.  Wherefore  come  out  from  among 
them,  and  be  ye  separate,  saith  the  Lord,  and  touch  not  the  unclean, 
thing;  and  I  will  receive  you.  Jude  23.  And  others  save  with  fear, 
pulling  them  out  of  the  fire;  hating  even  the  garment  spotted  by  the 
flesh. 

f  Col.  ii.  14.  Blotting  out  the  hand- writing  of  ordinances  that 
was  against  us,  which  was  contrary  to  us,  and  took  it  out  of  the  way, 
nailing  it  to  his  cross,  v.  16.  Let  no  man  therefore  judge  you  in 
meat  or  in  drink,  or  in  respect  of  an  holy  day,  or  of  the  new  moon, 
or  of  the  Sabbath-days :  v.  1 7.  Which  are  a  shadow  of  things  to 
come;  but  the  body  is  of  Christ.  Dan.  ix.  27.  And  he  shall  confirm 
the  covenant  with  many  for  one  week :  and  in  the  midst  of  the  week 
he  shall  cause  the  sacrifice  and  the  oblation  to  cease,  and  for  the  over- 
spreading of  abominations,  he  shall  make  it  desolate,  even  until  the 
consummation,  and  that  determined  shall  be  poured  upon  the  deso- 
late. Eph.  ii.  15.  Having  abolished  in  his  flesh  the  enmity,  even  the 
law  of  commandments  contained  in  ordinances,  for  to  make  in  him- 
self, of  twain,  one  new  man,  so  making  peace  ;  v.  16.  And  that  he 
might  reconcile  both  unto  God  in  one  body  by  the  cross,  having  slain 
the  enmity  thereby. 


*  o5  The  Confession  of  Faith.       Chap.  1 9 , 

with  the  state  of  that  people,  not  obliging  any 
other  now,  further  than  the  general  equity  there- 
of may  require.^ 

V.  The  moral  law  doth  for  ever  bind  all,  as 
well  justified  persons  as  others,  to  the  obedience 
thereof  \h  and  that  not  only  in  regard  of  the  mat- 
ter contained  in  it,  but  also  in  respect  of  the  au- 
thority of  God  the  Creator  who  gave  it./  Nei- 
ther doth  Christ  in  the  gospel  any  way  dissolve, 
bat  much  strengthen  this  obligation./' 

IV.  g  (Exod.  xxi.  chapter.  Exod.  xxii.  i  to  the  29th verse:  Sec 
both  in  the  Bible.)  Gen.  xlix.  10.  The  scepter  shall  not  depart 
from  Judah,  nor  a  lawgiver  from  between  his  feet,  until  Shiloh  come, 
and  unto  him  shall  the  gathering  of  the  people  be.  With  1  Pet.  ii. 
13.  Submit  yourselves  to  every  ordinance  of  man  for  the  Lord's 
sake:  whether  it  be  to  the  king,  as  supreme  :  v.  14.  Or  unto  go- 
vernors, as  unto  them  that  are  sent  by  him  for  the  punishment  of 
evil-doers,  and  for  the  praise  of  them  that  do  well.  Mat.  v.  17. 
Think  not  that  I  am  come  to  destroy  the  law  or  the  prophets :  I  am 
not  come  to  destroy,  but  to  fulfil.  With  v.  38.  Ye  have  heard  that 
it  hath  been  said,  An  eye  for  an  eye,  and  a  tooth  for  a  tooth,  v.  39. 
But  I  say  unto  you,  that  ye  resist  not  evil :  but  whosoever  shall  smite 
thee  on  thy  right  cheek,  turn  to  him  the  other  also.  1  Cor.  ix.  8. 
Say  I  these  things  as  a  man  ?  or  saith  not  the  law  the  same  also?  v.  9. 
For  it  is  written  in  the  law  of  Moses,  Thou  shalt  not  muzzle  the 
mouth  of  the  ox  that  treadeth  out  the  corn.  Doth  God  take  care  for 
oxen?  v.  :o.  Or  saith  he  it  altogether  for  our  sakes  ?  Foroursakes, 
jiO  doubt,  this  is  written  :  that  he  that  ploweth  should  plow  in  hope  ; 
and  that  he  that  thrcsheth  in  hope,  should  be  partaker  of  his  hope. 

V.  h  Rom.  xiii.  8.  9.  (See  above  in  letter*.)  v.  10.  Love 
•worketh  no  ill  to  his  neighbour :  therefore  love  is  the  fulfilling  ot  the 
jaw.  Eph.  vi.  2.  Honour  thy  father  and  mother,  which  is  the  first 
commandment  with  promise.  1  John  ii.  3.  And  hereby  do  we  know 
that  we  know  him,  if  we  keep  his  commandments,  v.  4.  He  that 
saith,  I  know  him,  and  keepeth  not  his  commandments,  is  a  liar,  and 
the  truth  is  not  in  him.  v.  7.  Brethren,  I  write  no  new  command- 
ment unto  you,  but  an  old  commandment  which  ye  had  from  the 
beginning  :  the  old  commandment  is  the  word  which  ye  have  heard 
from  the  beginning:  v.  8.  Again,  anew  commandment  I  write  unto 
you,  which  thing  is  true  in  him  and  in  you  :  because  the  darkness  is 
past,  and  the  true  light  now  shineth. 

/'  James  ii.  .10.  ii.     (See  In  letter  b.) 

k  Mat.  v.  j  j.  (See  in  letter  £.)  v.  iS.  For  verily  I  say  unto  you, 
Till  heaven  and  earth  pass^  one  jot  or  one  tittle  shall  in  no  wise  pas$ 


Chap.  19.         The  Confession  of  "Faith.  109 

VI.  Although  true  believers  be  not  under  the 
law  as  a  covenant  of  works,  to  be  thereby  justi- 
fied or  condemned  ;/  yet  is  it  of  great  use  to  them, 
as  well  as  to  others  ;  in  that,  as  a  rule  of  life, 
informing  them  of  the  will  of  God  and  their  duty, 
it  directs  and  binds  them  to  walk  accordingly  ;m 
discovering  also  the  sinful  pollutions  of  their  na- 
ture, hearts,  and  lives  ;n  so  as,  examining  them- 

from  the  law,  till  all  be  fulfilled,  v.  19.  Whosoever  therefore  shall 
break  one  of  these  least  commandments,  and  shall  teach  men  so,  he 
shall  be  called  the  least  in  the  kingdom  of  heaven:  but  whosoever 
shall  do,  and  teach  them,  the  same  shall  be  called  great  in  the  king- 
dom of  heaven.  Jam.  ii.  8.  (See  in  letter  b,  before.)  Rom.  iii.  31. 
Do  we  then  make  void  the  law  through  faith  ?  Qod  forbid  :  yea,  we 
establish  the  law. 

VI.  /  Rom.vi.  14.  For  sin  shall  not  have  dominion  over  you:  for 
ye  are  not  under  the  law,  but  under  grace.  Gal.  ii.  16.  Knowing 
that  a  man  is  not  justified  by  the  works  of  the  law,  but  by  the  faith  of 
Jesus  Christ,  even  we  have  believed  in  Jesus  Christ;  that  we  might 
be  justified  by  the  faith  of  Christ,  and  not  by  the  works  of  the  law  : 
for  by  the  works  of  the  law  shall  no  flesh  be  justified.  Gal.  iii.  13. 
Christ  hath  redeemed  us  from  the  curse  of  the  law,  being  made  a 
curse  for  us:  for  it  is  written,  Cursed  is  every  one  that  hangeth  on  a 
tree.  Gal.  iv.  4.  But  when  the  fulness  of  the  time  was  come,  God 
sent  forth  his  Son,  made  of  a  woman,  made  under  the  law,  v.  £.  To 
redeem  them  that  were  under  the  law,  that  we  might  receive  the  adop- 
tion of  sons.  Afts  xiii.  39.  And  by  him  all  that  believe  are  justified 
from  all  things,  from  which  ye  could  not  be  justified  by  the  law 
of  Moses.  Rom,  viii.  1.  There  is  therefore  now  no  condemnation 
to  them  which  are  in  Christ  Jesus,  who  walk  not  after  the  flesh,  but 
ijfter  the  Spirit. 

m  Rom.  vii.  12.  Wherefore  the  law  is  holy;  and  the  command- 
ment holy,  and  just,  and  good.  v.  22.  For  I  delight  in  the  law  of 
God,  after  the  inward  man.  v.  25.  I  thank  God,  through  Jesus 
Christ  our  Lord.  So  then,  with  the  mind  I  myself  serve  the  law  of 
God:  but  with  the  flesh  the  law  of  sin.  Psal.  c:a\.  4.  Thou  hast 
commanded  us  to  keep  thy  precepts  diligently,  v.  5.  O  that  my  way? 
were  directed  to  keep  thy  statutes !  v.  6.  Then  shall  I  not  be  asham- 
ed, when  I  have  respect  unto  all  thy  commandments.  1  Cor.  vii.  19. 
Circumcision  is  nothing,  and  uncircumcision  is  nothing,  but  the 
keeping  of  the  commandments  of  God.  Gal.  v.  14,  16,  18,  19,  20, 
21,22,23.    See  in  the  Bible. 

n  Rom.  vii.  7.  What  shall  we  say  then?  Is  the  law  sin?  God  for- 
bid. Nay,  I  had  not  known  sin,  but  by  the  law  :  for  I  had  not  known 


no  tfhe  Confession  of  Faith.       Chap.  1 9, 

selves  thereby,  they  may  come  to  further  convic- 
tion of,  humiliation  for,  and  hatred  against  sin  ;o 
together  with  a  clearer  sight  of  the  need  they  have 
of  Christ,  and  the  perfection  of  his  obedience.^ 
It  is  likewise  of  use  to  the  regenerate,  to  restrain 
their  corruptions,  in  that  it  forbids  sin;^  and  the 
threatenings  of  it  serve  to  shew  what  even  their 
sins  deserve,  and  what  afflictions  in  this  life  they 
may  expect  for  them,  although  freed  from  the 
curse  thereof  threatened  in  the  law.r     The  pro- 


lust,  except  the  law  had  said,  Thou  shalt  not  covet.  Rom.  iii.  20. 
Therefore  by  the  deeds  of  the  law  there  shall  no  flesh  be  justified  in 
his  sight :  for  by  the  law  is  the  knowledge  of  sin. 

0  James  i.  23.  For  if  any  be  a  hearer  of  the  word,  and  not  a  doer, 
he  is  like  unto  a  man  beholding  his  natural  face  in  a  glass:  v.  24. 
For  he  beholdeth  himself,  and  goeth  his  way,  and  straightway  for- 
geteth  what  manner  of  man  he  was.  v.  25.  But  whoso  looketh  into 
the  perfect  law  of  liberty,  and  continueth  therein,  he  being  not  a  for- 
getful hearer,  but  a  doer  of  the  work,  this  man  shall  be  blessed  in 
his  deed.  Rom.  vii.  y.  For  I  was  alive  without  the  law  once:  but 
when  the  commandment  came,  sin  revived,  and  I  died.  v.  14.  For 
we  know  that  the  law  is  spiritual :  but  I  am  carnal,  sold  under  sin. 
v.  24.  O  wretched  man  that  I  am,  who  shall  deliver  me  from  the 
body  of  this  death  1 

/i  Gal.  iii.  24.  Wherefore  the  law  was  our  schoolmaster  to  bring 
n5.  unto  Christ,  that  we  might  be  justified  by  faith.  Rom.  vii.  24. 
(See  before  in  the  letter  0.  v.  25.  in  letter  >/:.)  Rom.  viii.  3.  For, 
what  the  law  could  not  do  in  that  it  was  weak  through  the  flesh, 
God,  sending  his  own  Son  in  the  likeness  of  sinful  flesh,  and  for  sin, 
condemned  sin  in  the  flesh  :  v.  4.  That  the  righteousness  of  the  law 
might  be  fulfilled  in  us,  who  walk  not  after  the  flesh,  but  after  the 
Spirit. 

q  fame;  ii.  11.  For  he  that  said,  Do  not  commit  adultery,  said  also, 
Do  not  kill.  Now,  if  thou  commit  no  adultery,  yet  if  thou  kill,  thou 
art  become  a  transgressor  of  the  law.  Psal.  cxix.  xoi.  I  have  re- 
frained my  feet  from  every  evil  way:  that  I  might  keep  thy  word, 
v.  104.  Through  thy  precepts  I  get  understanding:  therefore  I  hate 
every  false  way.  v.  128.  Therefore  I  esteem  all  thy  precepts  con- 
cerning all  things  to  be  right ;  and  1  hate  every  false  way. 

;■  Ezra  ix.  1  3.  And  after  all  that  is  come  upon  us  for  our  evil 
deeds,  and  for  our  great  trespass,  seeing  that  thou  our  God  hast  pu- 
nished us  less  than  our  iniquities  deserve,  and  hast  given  us  such  de- 
liverance as  this:  v.  14.  Should  we  again  break  thy  commandments, 


Chap.  1 9.       The  Confession  of  Faith,  1 1 1 

mises  of  it  in  like  manner,  shew  them  God's  appro- 
bation of  obedience,  and  what  blessings  they  may 
expecT:  upon  the  performance  thereof,*  although 
not  as  due  to  them  by  the  law  as  a  covenant  of 
works  it  so  as  a  man's  doing  good,  and  refraining 
from  evil,  because  the  law  encourageth  to  the 
one,  and  deterreth  from  the  other,  is  no  evidence 
of  his  being  under  the  law,  and  not  under  graces 

and  join  in  affinity  with  the  people  of  these  abominations?  wouldst 
not  thou  be  angry  with  us,  till  thou  hadst  consumed  us,  so  that  there 
should  be  no  remnant  nor  escaping?  Psal.  lxxxix.  30.  If  his  children 
forsake  my  law,  and  walk,  not  in  my  judgments;  v.  31.  If  they 
break  my  statutes,  and  keep  not  my  commandments:  v.  32.  Then 
will  I  visit  their  transgression  with  the  rod,  and  their  iniquity  with 
stripes,  v.  33.  Nevertheless,  my  loving  kindness  will  I  not  utterly 
take  from  him,  nor  suifer  my  faithfulness  to  fail.  v.  34.  My  cove- 
nant will  I  not  break,  nor  alter  the  thing  that  is  gone  out  of  my  lips. 

s  (Lev.  xxvi.  to  the  14th  verse.)  With  2  Cor.  vi.  16.  And  what 
agreement  hath  the  temple  of  God  with  idols  ?  for  ye  are  the  temple 
of  the  living  God;  as  God  hath  said,  I  will  dwell  in  them,  and  walk 
in  them ;  and  I  will  be  their  God,  and  they  shall  be  my  people.  Eph. 
vi.  2.  Honour  thy  father  and  mother,  (which  is  the  first  command- 
ment with  promise.)  v.  3.  That  it  may  be  well  with  thee,  and  thou 
mayest  live  long  on  the  earth.  Psal.  xxxvii.  1 1.  But  the  meek  shall 
inherit  the  earth :  and  shall  delight  themselves  in  the  abundance  of 
peace.  With  Mat.  v.  5.  Blessed  are  the  meek:  for  they  shall  inherit 
the  earth.  Psal.  xix.  11.  Moreover,  by  them  is  thy  servant  warned: 
and  in  keeping  of  them  there  is  great  reward. 

/  Gal.  ii.  16.  Knowing  that  a  man  is  not  justified  by  the  works 
of  the  law,  but  by  the  faith  of  Jesus  Christ;  even  we  have  believed 
in  Jesus  Christ;  that  we  might  be  justified  by  the  faith  of  Christ, 
and  not  by  the  works  of  the  law:  for  by  the  works  of  the  law  shall 
no  flesh  be  justified.  Luke  xvii.  10.  So  likewise  ye,  when  ye  shall 
have  done  all  those  things  which  are  commanded  you,  say,  We  are 
unprofitable  servants :  we  have  done  that  which  was  our  duty  to  do. 

v  Rom.  vi.  12.  Let  not  sin  therefore  reign  in  your  mortal  body, 
that  ye  should  obey  it  in  the  lusts  thereof,  v.  14.  For  sin  shall  not 
have  dominion  over  you:  for  ye  are  not  under  the  law,  but  under 
grace.  1  Pet.  iii.  8.  Finally,  be  ye  all  of  one  mind,  having  com- 
passion one  of  another;  love  as  brethren,  be  pitiful,  be  courteous: 
v.  9.  Not  rendering  evil  for  evil,  or  railing  for  railing;  but  contra- 
ry wise,  blessing;  knowing  that  ye  are  thereunto  called,  that  ye 
should  inherit  a  blessing,  v.  10.  For  he  that  will  love  life,  and  see 
good  days,  let  him  refrain  his  tongue   from  evil,  and  his  lips  that 


i  1 2  "7Z»6'  Confession  of  Faith.       Chap.  20, 

VII.  Neither  are  the  fore-mentioned  uses  of 
the  law  contrary  to  the  grace  of  the  gospel,  but 
do  sweetly  comply  with  it  \w  the  Spirit  of  Christ 
subduing  and  enabling  the  will  of  man  to  do  that 
freely  and  cheerfully  which  the  will  of  God,  re- 
vealed in  the  law,  requireth  to  be  doncx 


Chap.  XX.     Of  Christian  Liberty,  and  Liberty 
of  Conscience. 

X  HE  liberty  which  Christ  hath  purchased  for 
believers  under  the  gospel,  consists  in  their  free- 
dom from  the  guilt  of  sin,  the  condemning  wrath 

they  speak  no  guile,  v.  it.  Let  him  eschew  evil,  and  do  good;  let 
him  seek  peace,  and  ensue  it.  v.  12.  For  the  eyes  of  the  Lord  are 
over  the  righteous,  and  his  eats  are  open  unto  their  prayers:  but  the 
face  of  the  Lord  is  against  them  that  do  evil.  With  Psal.  Xxxfr.  12. 
Whit  man  is  he  that  desireth  life,  and  loveth  many  days,  that  he 
may  see  good?  v.  13.  Keep  thy  tongue  from  evil,  and  thy  lips  from 
speaking  guile,  v.  14.  Depart  from  evil,  and  do  good  :  seek  peace, 
and  pursue  it.  v.  15.  The  eyes  of  the  Lord  are  upon  the  righte- 
ous, and  his  ears  are  open  unto  their  cry.  v.  16.  The  face  of  the 
Lord  is  against  them  that  do  evil,  to  cut  off  the  remembrance  of 
them  from  the  earth.  Heb.  xii.  28.  Wherefore,  we  receiving  a 
kingdom  which  cannot  be  moved,  let  us  have  grace  whereby  wc 
may  serve  God  acceptably,  with  reverence  and  godly  iear.  v.  29. 
For  our  God  is  a  consuming  fire. 

VII.  in  Gal.  iii.  21.  Is  the  law  then  against  the  promises  of  God? 
God  forbid:  tor  if  there  had  been  a  law  given  which  couid  have 
given  life,  verily  righteousness  should  have  been  by  the  law. 

.v  Ezek.  xxxvi.  27.  And  1  will  put  my  Spirit  within  you,  and 
cause  you  to  walk  in  my  statutes,  and  ye  shall  keep  my  judgments, 
and  do  them.  Heb.  viii.  10.  For  this  is  the  covenant  that  I  will 
make  with  the  house  ot  Israel  alter  those  days,  saith  the  Lord;  I 
will  put  my  laws  into  their  mind,  and  write  them  in  their  hearts: 
and  I  will  be  to  the:v,  a  (  rod,  and  they  shall  be  to  me  a  people. 
With  Jer.  xxxi.  53.  But  this  shall  be  the  covenant  that  I  will  make 
with  the  house  ot  Israel,  Alter  those  days,  saith  the  Lord,  I  will  put 
my  law  in  their  inward  parts,  and  write  it  in  their  hearts,  and  will 
be  their  God,  and  they  shall  be  my  people. 


Chap.  20.       'The Confession  of  ^  Faith,  n? 

of  God,  the  curse  of  the  moral  law  ;a  and  in  their 
being  delivered  from  this  present  evil  world,  bon- 
dage to  Satan,  and  dominion  of  sin,£  from  the 
evil  of  afflictions,  the  sting  of  death,  the  viclory 
of  the  grave,  and  everlasting  damnation  ;c  as  also 
in  their  free  access  to  God,^/  and  their  yieldino- 
obedience  unto  him,  not  out  of  slavish  fear,  but 
a  child-like  love,  and  willing  mind.*     All  which 

I.  a  Tit.  ii.  14.  Who  gave  himself  for  us,  that  he  might  redeem 
us  from  all  iniquity,  and  purify  unto  himself  a  peculiar  people,  zea- 
lous of  good  works.  1  Thess.'i.  10.  And  to  wait  for  his  Son  from 
heaven,  whom  he  raised  from  the  dead,  even  Jesus  which  delivered 
us  from  the  wrath  to  come.  Gal.  iii.  13.  Christ  hath  redeemed  us 
from  the  curse  of  the  law,  being  made  a  curse  for  us:  for  it  is  writ- 
ten, Cursed  is  every  one  that  hangeth  on  a  tree. 

b  Gal.  1.  4.  Who  gave  himself  for  our  sins,  that  he  might  deliver 
us  from  this  present  evil  world,  according  to  the  will  of  God  and  our 
Father.  Col.  i.  1 3.  Who  hath  delivered  us  from  the  power  of  dark- 
ness, and  hath  translated  us  into  the  kingdom  of  his  dear  Son.  Acts 
xxvi.  18.  To  open  their  eyes,  and  to  turn  them  from  darkness  to 
light,  and  from  the  power  of  Satan  unto  God,  that  they  may  receive 
forgiveness  of  sins,  and  inheritance  among  them  which  are  sanctifi- 
ed by  faith  that  is  in  me.  Rom.  vi.  14.  For  sin  shall  not  have  do- 
minion over  you  :  for  ye  are  not  under  the  law,  but  under  arace. 

c  Rom.  viii.  28.  We  know  that  all  things  work  together  tor  good 
to  them  that  love  God,  to  them  who  are  the  called  according  to  his 
purpose.  Psal.  cxix.  71.  It  is  good  for  me  that  I  have  been°afflic% 
ed :  that  I  might  learn  thy  statutes.  1  Cor.  xv.  54.  So  when  this 
corruptible  shall  have  put  on  incorruption,  and  this  mortal  shall  have 
put  on  immortality,  then  shall  be  brought  to  pass  the  saying  that  is 
written,  Death  is  swallowed  up  in  victory,  v.  55.  O  death  where 
is  thy  sting?  O  grave  where  is  thy  victory?  v.  56.  The  sting  of 
death  is  sin;  and  the  strength  of  sin  is  the  law.  v.  57.  But  thanks 
be  to  God,  which  giveth  us  the  viftory,  through  our  Lord  Jesus 
Christ.  Rom.  viii.  i.  There  is  therefore  now  no  condemnation  to 
them  which  are  in  Christ  Jesus,  who  walk  not  after  the  flesh,  but 
after  the  Spirit. 

d  Rom.  v.  1.  Therefore,  being  justified  by  faith,  we  have  peace 
with  God  through  our  Lord  Jesus  Christ ;  v.  2.  By  whom  also 
)ve  have  access  by  faith  into  this  grace  wherein  we  stand,  and  rejoice 
in  hope  of  the  glory  of  God. 

e  Rom.  viii.  14.  For  as  many  as  are  led  by  the  Spirit  of  God,  they 
are  the  sons  of  God.  v.  15.  For  ye  have  not  received  the  spirit  of 
bondage  again  to  fear ;  but  ye  have  received  the  Spirit  of  adoption, 


114  ?8fc  Confession  of  Faith       Chap.  za\ 

were  common  also  to  believers  under  the  law;/" 
but  under  the  New  Testament,  the  liberty  of 
Christians  is  further  enlarged  in  their  freedom 
from  the  yoke  of  the  ceremonial  law,  to  which 
the  Jewish  church  was  subjected,**"  and  in  greater 
boldness  of  access  to  the  throne  of  grace, h  and 
in  fuller  communications  of  the  free  Spirit  of 
God,  than  believers  under  the  law  did  ordinarily 
partake  of./ 

whereby  we  cry,  Abba,  Father,  i  John  iv.  18.  There  is  no  fear 
in  love;  but  perfect  love  casteth  out  fear:  because  fear  hath  tor- 
ment :  he  that  feareth  is  not  made  perfect  in  love. 

f  Gal.  iii.  9.  So,  then,  they  which  be  of  faith  are  blessed  with, 
faithful  Abraham,  v.  14.  That  the  blessing  of  Abraham  might  come 
en  the  Gentiles  through  Jesus  Christ;  that  we  might  receive  the 
promise  of  the  Spirit  through  faith. 

g  Gal.  iv.  1.  Now  I  say,  that  the  heir,  as  long  as  he  is  a  child* 
difiereth  nothing  from  a  servant,  though  he  be  lord  of  all;  v.  2.  But 
is  under  tutors  and  governors  until  the  time  appointed  ot  the  father. 
v.  3.  Even  so  we,  when  we  were  children,  were  in  bondage  under 
the  elements  of  the  world,  v.  6.  And  because  ye  are  sons,  God  hath 
sent  forth  the  Spirit  of  his  Son  into  your  hearts,  crying,  Abba,  Father. 
v.  7.  Wherefore  thou  art  no  more  a  servant,  but  a  son ;  and  if  a 
son,  then  an  heir  of  God  through  Christ.  Gal.  v.  1.  Stand  fast, 
therefore,  in  the  liberty  wherewith  Christ  hath  made  us  free,  and  be 
not  entangled  again  with  the  yoke  of  bondage.  A<fts  xv.  10.  Now 
therefore,  why  tempt  ye  God,  to  put  a  yoke  upon  the  neck  of  the  dis- 
ciples, which  neither' our  fathers  nor  we  were  able  to  bear?  v.  11. 
But  we  believe  that  through  the  grace  of  the  Lord  Jesus  Christ  we 
shall  be  saved  even  as  they. 

//  Heb.  iv.  14.  Seeing  then  that  we  have  a  great  high  priest,  that 
is  passed  into  the  heavens,  Jesus  the  Son  of  God,  let  us  hold  fast  our 
profession,  v.  16.  Let  us  therefore  come  boldly  unto  the  throne  of 
grace,  that  we  may  obtain  mercy,  and  find  grace  to  help  in  time  of 
need.  Heb.  x.  19.  Having  therefore,  brethren,  boldness  to  enter 
into  the  holiest  by  the  blood  of  Jesus,  v.  20.  By  a  new  and  living 
w;ty  which  he  hath  consecrated  for  us,  through  the  vail,  that  is  to 
say,  his  flesh;  v.  21.  And  having  an  high  priest  over  the  house  of 
God;  v.  22.  Let  us  draw  near  with  a  true  heart,  in  full  assurance 
of  faith,  having  our  hearts  sprinkled  from  an  evil  conscience,  and 
our  bodies  washed  with  pure  water. 

i  John  vii.  38.  He  that  belicveth  on  mc,  as  the  scripture  hath  said, 
out  of  his  belly  shall  flow  rivers  of  living  water,  v.  39.  But  this  spake 
he  of  the  Spirit,  which  they  that  believe  on  him  should  receive;  fox 


Chap.  20.        tfhe  Confession  of  Faith.  115 

II.  God  alone  is  Lord  of  the  conscience,^  and 
hath  left  it  free  from  the  doctrines  and  command- 
ments of  men,  which  are  in  any  thing  contrary 
to  his  word,  or  beside  it,  in  matters  of  faith  or 
worship./  So  that  to  believe  such  doctrines,  or 
to  obey  such  commandments  out  of  conscience, 
is  to  betray  true  liberty  of  conscience  \m  and  the 

the  Holy  Ghost  was  not  yet  given,  because  that  Jesus  was  not  yet 
glorified.  2  Cor.  iii.  13.  And  not  as  Moses,  which  put  a  vail  over 
his  face,  that  the  children  of  Israel  could  not  stedfastly  look  to  the 
end  of  that  which  is  abolished,  v.  1 7.  Now  the  Lord  is  that  Spirit: 
and  where  the  Spirit  of  the  Lord  is,  there  is  liberty,  v.  18.  But  we 
all  with  open  face,  beholding  as  in  %.  glass  the  glory  of  the  Lord,  are 
changed  into  the  same  image,  from  glory  to  glory,  even  as  by  the 
Spirit  of  the  Lord. 

II.  k  James  iv.  12.  There  is  one  lawgiver,  who  is  able  to  save 
and  to  destroy:  who  art  thou  that  judgest  another?  Rom.  xiv.  4. 
Who  art  thou  that  judgest  another  man's  servant  ?  to  his  own  master 
he  standeth  or  felleth:  yea,  he  shall  be  holden  up :  for  God  is  able 
to  make  him  stand. 

/  Acts  iv.  19.  But  Peter  and  John  answered  and  said  unto  them, 
Whether  it  be  right  in  the  sight  of  God,  to  hearken  unto  you  more 
than  unto  God,  judge  ye.  Acts  v.  29.  Then  Peter  and  the  other 
apostles  answered  and  said,  We  ought  to  obey  God  rather  than  men. 
1  Cor.  vii.  23.  Ye  are  bought  with  a  price,  be  not  ye  the  servants 
of  men.  Mat.  xxiii.  8.  But  be  not  ye  called  Rabbit  for  one  is  your 
Master,  even  Christ,  and  all  ye  are  brethren,  v.  9.  And  call  no 
man  your  father  upon  the  earth  :  for  one  is  your  Father,  which  is  in 
heaven,  v.  10.  Neither  be  ye  called  Masters.:  for  one  is  your  Mas= 
ter,  even  Christ.  2  Cor.  i.  24.  Not  for  that  we  have  dominion  over 
your  faith,  but  are  helpers  of  your  joy  :  for  by  faith  ye  stand.  Mat. 
xv.  9.  But  in  vain  they  do  worship  me,  teaching  for  doctrines  the 
commandments  of  men. 

m  CoL  ii.  20.  Wherefore  if  ye  .be  dead  with  Christ  from  the 
rudiments  cf  the  world,  why,  as  though  living  in  the  world,  are 
ye  subject  to  ordinances,  v.  22.  Which  all  are  to  perish  with  the 
using,  after  the  commandments  and  doctrines  of  men?  v.  23. 
Which  things  have  indeed  a  shew  of  wisdom  in  will- worship  arid 
humility,  and  neglecting  of  the  body,  not  in  any  honour  to  the 
satisfying  of  the  flesh.  Gal.  i.  10.  For  do  I  now  persuade  men, 
or  God?  or  do  I  seek  to  please  men?  for  if  I  yet  pleased  men, 
I  should  not  be  the  servant  of  Christ.  Gal.  ii.  4.  And  that  be- 
cause of  false  brethren  unawares  brought  in,  who  came  in  privily 
to  spy  out  our  liberty  which  we  have  in  Christ  Jesus,  that  they 
flight  bring  us  into  bondage,     v.  5.    To  whom  we  gave  plate 


1 1 6  *the  Confession  of  Faith.       Chap.  20. 

requiring  of  an  implicit  faith,  and  an  absolute  and 
blind  obedience,  is  to  destroy  liberty  of  consci- 
ence, and  reason  also.# 

III.  They  who,  upon  pretence  of  Christian  li- 
berty, do  practise  any  sin,  or  cherish  any  lust, 
do  thereby  destroy  the  end  of  Christian  liberty; 
which  is,  that,  being  delivered  out  of  the  hands 
of  our  enemies,  we  might  serve  the  Lord  without 
fear,  in  holiness  and  righteousness  before  him  all 
the  days  of  our  life.o 

by  subjection,  no  not  for  an  hour;  that  the  truth  of  the  gospel  might 
continue  with  you.  Gal.  v.  i.  Stand  fast,  therefore,  in  the  liberty 
wherewith  Christ  hath  made  us  free,  and  be  not  entangled  again 
with  the  yoke  of  bondage. 

n  Rom.  x.  17.  So  then,  faith  cometh  by  hearing,  and  hearing  by 
the  word  ot  God.  Rom.  xiv.  23.  And  he  that  doubteth,  is  damned 
if  he  eat,  because  he  eateth  not  of  faith:  for  whatsoever  is  not  of 
faith,  is  sin.  Isa.  viii.  20.  To  the  law  and  to  the  testimony,  if  they 
speak  not  according  to  this  word,  it  is  because  there  is  no  light  in 
them.  Acls  xvii.  1 1.  These  were  more  noble  than  those  in  Thessa- 
lonica,  in  that  they  received  the  word  with  all  readiness  of  mind, 
and  searched  the  scriptures  daily,  whether  those  things  were  so.  John 
iv.  22.  Ye  worship  ye  know  not  what :  we  know  what  we  worship  : 
for  salvation  is  of  the  Jews.  Hos.  v.  1 1.  Ephraim  is  oppressed,  and 
broken  in  judgment ;  because  he  willingly  walked  after  the  com- 
mandment. Rev.  xiii.  12.  And  he  exerciseth  all  the  power  of  the 
first  beast  before  him,  and  causeth  the  earth,  and  them  which  dwell 
therein,  to  worship  the  first  beast  whose  deadly  wound  was  healed. 
v.  16.  And  he  causeth  all,  both  small  and  great,  rich  and  poor,  free 
and  bond,  to  receive  a  mark  in  their  right  hand,  or  in  their  fore- 
heads: v.  17.  And  that  no  man  might  buy  or  sell,  save  he  that  had 
the  mark,  or  the  name  of  the  beast,  or  the  number  of  his  name.  Jer. 
viii.  9.  The  wise  men  are  ashamed,  they  are  dismayed  and  taken; 
lo,  they  have  reject ed  the  word  of  the  Lord,  and  what  wisdom  is  in 
them  ? 

III.  0  Gal.  v.  13.  For,  brethren,  ye  have  been  called  unto  liberty; 
only  use  not  liberty  for  an  occasion  to  the  flesh,  but  by  love  serve 
one  another.  1  Pet.  ii.  16.  As  free,  and  not  using  your  liberty 
ior  a  cloke  of  maliciousness,  but  as  the  servants  of  God.  2  Pet.  ii.  19. 
While  they  promise  them  liberty,  they  themselves  are  the  servants 
of  corruption:  for  of  whom  a  man  is  overcome,  of  the  same  is  he 
brought  in  bondage.  John  viii.  34.  Jesus  answered  them,  Verily, 
verily,  I  say  unto  you,  Whosoever  committeth  sin,  is  the  servant  of 
sin.     Luke  i.  74.  That  he  would  grant  unto  us,  that  we,  being  de- 


Chap.  20.       I^he  Confession  of  Faith,  ny 

IV.  And  because  the  powers  which  God  hath 
ordained,  and  the  liberty  which  Christ  hath  pur- 
chased, are  not  intended  by  God  to  destroy,  but 
mutually  to  uphold  and  preserve  one  another; 
they  who,  upon  pretence  of  Christian  liberty, 
shall  oppose  any  lawful  power,  or  the  lawful  ex- 
ercise of  it,  whether  it  be  civil  or  ecclesiastical, 
resist  the  ordinance  of  God.p  And  for  their  pub- 
lishing of  such  opinions,  or  maintaining  of  such 
practices,  as  are  contrary  to  the  light  of  nature,  or 
to  the  known  principles  of  Christianity,  whether 
concerning  faith,  worship,  conversation,  or  the 
order  which  Christ  hath  established  in  his  church, 
they  may  be  lawfully  called  to  account,  and  pro- 
ceeded against  by  the  censures  of  the  church  \q 

livered  out  of  the  hands  of  our  enemies,  might  serve  him  without 
fear,  v.  75.  In  holiness  and  righteousness  before  him,  all  the  davs 
of  our  life. 

IV.  p  Mat.  xii.  25.  And  Jesus  knew  their  thoughts,  and  said 
unto  them,  Every  kingdom  divided  against  itself  is  brought  to  de- 
solation: and  every  city  or  house  divided  against  itself  shall  not 
stand.  1  Pet.  ii.  13.  Submit  yourselves  to  every  ordinance  of  man 
for  the  Lord's  sake:  whether  it  be  to  the  king,  as  supreme;  v.  14. 
Or  unto  governors,  as  unto  them  that  are  sent  by  him  for  the  pu- 
nishment of  evil-doers,  and  for  the  praise  of  them  that  do  well.  v.  16. 
As  free,  and  not  using  your  liberty  for  a  cloke  of  maliciousness,  but 
as  the  servants  of  God.  (Rom.  xiii.  1.  to  the  8th  verse.)  Heb. 
xiii.  17.  Obey  them  that  have  the  rule  over  you,  and  submit  your- 
selves: for  they  watch  for  your  souls,  as  they  that  must  give  ac- 
count :  that  they  may  do  it  with  joy,  and  not  with  grief:  for  that  is 
unprofitable  for  you. 

q  Rom.  i.  32.  Who  knowing  the  judgment  of  God,  (that  thev 
which  commit  such  things  are  worthy  of  death)  not  only  do  the  same, 
but  have  pleasure  in  them  that  do  them.  With  1  Cor.  v.  1.  It  is 
reported  commonly  that  there  is  fornication  among  you,  and  such 
fornication  as  is  not  so  much  as  named  amongst  the  Gentiles,  that 
one  should  have  his  father's  wife.  v.  5.  To  deliver  such  an  one  unto 
Satan  for  the  destruction  of  the  flesh,  that  the  spirit  may  be  saved  in 
the  day  of  the  Lord  Jesus,  v.  11.  But  now  I  have  written  unto 
you,  not  to  keep  company,  if  any  man  that  is  called  a  brother,  be 
a  fornicator,  or  covetous,  or  an  idolater,  or  a  railer,  or  a  drunkard, 
or  an  extortioner,  with  such  an  one  no  not  to  eat.     v.  1 3.  But  them 


1 1 S  *fhe  Confession  of  Faith.       Chap.  20, 

and  in  proportion  as  their  erroneous  opinions  or 
practices,  either  in  their  own  nature,  or  in  the 

that  are  without,  God  judgeth.  Therefore  put  away  from  among 
yourselves  that  wicked  person.  2  John  10.  If  there  come  any  unto 
you,  and  bring  not  this  doctrine,  receive  him  not  into  your  house, 
neither  bid  him  God  speed:  v.  11.  For  he  that  biddeth  him  God 
speed,  is  partaker  of  his  evil  deeds.  And  2  Thess.  iii.  14.  And  if 
any  man  obey  not  our  word  by  this  epistle,  note  that  man,  and  have 
no  company  with  him,  that  he  may  be  ashamed.  And  1  Tim.  vi.  3. 
If  any  man  teach  otherwise,  and  consent  not  to  wholesome  words, 
even  the  words  of  our  Lord  Jesus  Christ,  and  to  the  doctrine  which 
is  according  to  godliness:  v.  4.  He  is  proud,  knowing  nothing,  but 
doting  about  questions  and  strifes  of  words,  whereof  cometh  envy, 
strife,  railings,  evil  surmisings,  v.  5.  Perverse  disputings  of  men  of 
corrupt  minds,  and  destitute  of  the  truth,  supposing  that  gain  is  god- 
liness: from  such  withdraw  thyself.  And  Tit  i.  10.  For  there  are 
many  unruly  and  vain  talkers  and  deceivers,  especially  they  of  the 
circumcision;  v.  11.  Whose  mouths  must  be  stopped,  who  subvert 
whole  houses,  teaching  things  which  they  ought  not,  for  filthy  lucre's 
sake.  v.  13.  This  witness  is  true:  wherefore  rebuke  them  sharply, 
that  they  may  be  sound  in£he  faith.  And  Tit.  iii.  10.  A  man  that 
is  an  heretic,  after  the  first  and  second  admonition,  reject:.  With 
Mat.  xviii.  15.  Moreover,  if  thy  brother  shall  trespass  against  thee, 
go  and  tell  him  his  fault  between  thee  and  bun  alone;  if  he  shall  hear 
thee,  thou  hast  gained  thy  brother,  v.  16.  But  if  he  will  not  hear 
thee,  then  take  with  thee  one  or  two  more,  that  in  the  mouth  of  two 
or  three  witnesses  every  word  may  be  established,  v.  17.  And  if  he 
shall  neglect  to  hear  them,  tell  it  unto  the  church  :  but  if  he  neglect, 
to  hear  the  church,  let  him  be  unto  thee  as  an  heathen  man,  and  a 
publican.  1  Tim.  i.  19.  Holding  faith  and  a  good  conscience;  which 
fomc  having  put  away,  concerning  faith  have  made  shipwreck,  v. 
20.  Ol  whom  is  Hvmeneusand  Alexander;  whom  I  have  delivered 
unto  Satan,  that  they  may  learn  not  to  blaspheme.  Rev.  ii.  2.  I 
know  thy  works,  and  thy  labour,  and  thy  patience,  and  how  thou 
canst  not  bear  them  which  are  evil:  and  thou  hast  tried  thern  which 
sav  they  are  apostles,  and  are  not;  and  hast  found  them  liars,  v.  14. 
But  1  have  a  few  tilings  against  thee,  because  thou  hast  there  them 
that  hold  the  doctrine  of  Balaam,  who  taught  Balak  to  cast  a  stum- 
bling-block before  the  children  of  Israel,  to  eat  things  sacrificed  unto 
idol>  and  to  commit  lornication.  v.  1 5.  So  hast  thou  also  them  that 
hold  the  doctrine  of  Nicolaitans,  which  thing  I  hate.  v.  20.  Not- 
withstanding, I  "gainst  thee,  because  thou  sufferest 
that  woman  fezebel,  which  calleth  herself  a  prophetess,  to  teach  and 
seduce  my  servants  to  commit  lornication,  and  to  cat  things  sacri- 
ficed unto  idols.  Rev.  iii.  9.  Behold,  I  will  make  them  of  the  syna- 
gogue ol  Satan,  (which  say  thev  are  Jews,  and  are  not,  but  do  lie;) 
I"  hold,  1  w  ill  make  them  to  come  and  worship  before  thy  feet,  and 
to  know  tiiat  I  have  lov<.d  thee. 


Chap.  2 1 .        ^the  Confession  of  Faith  1 1 9 

manner  of  publishing  or  maintaining  them,  are 
destructive  to  the  external  peace  of  the  church, 
and  of  civil  fociety,  they  may  be  also  proceeded 
ao-ainst  by  the  power  of  the  civil  magistrates 


Chap.  XXI.      Of  Religious    Worship,    and    the 
Sabbath-day. 

±  HE  light  of  nature  sheweth  that  there  is  a 
God,  who  hath  lordship  and  sovereignty  over  all ; 
is  good,  and  doth  good  unto  all ;  and  is  therefore 
to  be  feared,  loved,  praised,  called  upon,  trusted 
in,  and  served,  with  all  the  heart,  and  with  all 

r  Rom.  xiii>  3.  For  rulers  are  not  a  terror  to  good  works,  but  to  the 
evil.  Wilt  thou  then  not  be  afraid  of  the  power  ?  Do  that  which  is 
good,  and  thou  shalt  have  praise  of  the  same:  v.  4.  For  he  is  the  mi- 
nister of  God  to  thee  for  good.  But  if  thou  do  that  which  is  evil,  be 
afraid ;  for  he  beareth  not  the  sword  in  vain :  for  he  is  the  minister  of 
God,  a  revenger  to  execute  wrath  upon  him  that  doth  evil.  Neh. 
xiii.  15.  In  those  days  saw  I  in  Judah,  some  treading  wine-presses 
on  the  Sabbath,  and  bringing  in  sheaves,  and  lading  asses;  as  also 
wine,  grapes,  and  figs,  and  all  manner  of  burdens,  which  they 
brought  into  Jerusalem  on  the  Sabbath-day:  and  I  testified  against 
them  in  the  day  wherein  they  sold  victuals,  v.  17.  Then  I  con- 
tended with  the  nobles  of  Judah,  and  said  unto  them,  What  evil 
thing  is  this  that  ye  do,  and  profane  the  Sabbath-day  ?  v.  21.  Then 
I  testified  against  them,  and  said  unto  them,  Why  lodge  ye  about 
the  wall?  If  ye  do  so  again,  I  will  lay  hands  on  you.  From  that 
time  forth  came  they  no  more  on  the  Sabbath,  v.  22.  And  I  com- 
manded the  Levites,  that  they  should  cleanse  themselves,  and  that 
they  should  come  and  keep  the  gates,  to  san&ify  the  Sabbath-day. 
Remember  me,  O  my  God,  concerning  this  also,  and  spare  me  ac- 
cording to  the  greatness  of  thy  mercy.  1  Tim.  ii.  1.  I  exhort, 
therefore,  that,  first  of  all,  supplications,  prayers,  intercessions,  and 
giving  of  thanks,  be  made  for  all  men  :  v.  2.  For  kings,  and  for  all 
that  are  in  authority ;  that  we  may  lead  a  quiet  and  peaceable  life  in  all 
godliness  and  honesty.  Isa.  xlix.  23.  And  kings  shall  be  thy  nursing 
fathers,  and  their  queens  thy  nursing  mothers:  they  shall  bow  down 
to  thee  with  their  face  toward  the  earth,  and  lick  up  the  dust  of  thy 
feet,  and  thou  shalt  know  that  I  am  the  Lord:  for  they  shall  not  be 
ashamed  that  wait  for  me. 


1 20  The  Confession  of  Faith.       Chap.  2 1 . 

the  soul,  and  with  all  the  might.**  But  the  ac- 
ceptable way  of  worshipping  the  true  God  is  in- 
stituted by  himself,  and  so  limited  by  his  own  re- 
vealed will,  that  he  may  not  be  worshipped  ac- 
cording to  the  imaginations  and  devices  of  men, 
or  the  suggestions  of  Satan,  under  any  visible 
representation,  or  any  other  way  not  prescribed 
in  the  holy  scripture.3 

I.  a  Rom.  i.  20.  For  the  invisible  things  of  him  from  the  creation 
of  the  world  are  clearly  seen,  being  understood  by  the  things  that 
are  made,  eve  n  his  eternal  power  and  Godhead ;  so  that  they  are 
without  excuse.  Acts  xvii.  24.  God  that  made  the  world  and  all 
things  therein,  seeing  that  he  is  Lord  of  heaven  and  earth,  dwelleth 
not  in  temples  made  with  hands.  Psal.  cxix.  68.  Thou  art  good,  and 
dost  good:  teach  me  thy  statutes.  Jer.  x.  7.  Who  would  not  fear 
thee,  O  king  of  nations  ?  for  to  thee  doth  it  appertain  :  for  as  much 
as  among  all  the  wise  men  of  the  nations,  and  in  all  their  kingdoms, 
there  is  none  like  unto  thee.  Psal.  xxxi.  23.  O  love  the  Lord,  all  ye 
his  saints:  for  the  Lord  preserveth  the  faithful,  and  plentifully  reward- 
eth  the  proud  doer.  Psal.  xviii.  3.  I  will  call  upon  the  Lord,  who 
is  worthy  to  be  praised :  so  shall  I  be  saved  from  mine  enemies. 
Rom.  x.  12.  For  there  is  no  difference  between  the  Jew  and  the 
Greek;  for  the  same  Lord  over  all,  is  rich  unto  all  that  call  upon 
him.  Psal.  lxii.  8.  Trust  in  him  at  all  times ;  ye  people,  pour  out 
your  heart  before  him:  God  is  a  refuge  for  us.  Josh.  xxiv.  14. 
Now,  therefore,  fear  the  Lord,  and  serve  him  in  sincerity  and  in 
truth,  and  put  away  the  gods  which  your  fathers  served  on  the  other 
side  of  the  flood,  and  in  Kgypt :  and  serve  ye  the  Lord.  Mark  xii. 
33.  And  to  love  him  with  all  the  heart,  and  with  all  the  understand- 
ing, and  with  all  the  soul,  and  with  all  the  strength,  and  to  love  his 
neighbour  as  himself,  is  more  than  all  whole-burnt  offerings  and  sa- 
crifices. 

b  Deut.  xii.  32.  What  thing  soever  I  command  you,  observe  to 
do  it :  thou  shalt  not  add  thereto,  nor  diminish  from  it.  Mat.  xv.  9. 
But  in  vain  they  do  worship  me,  teaching  for  doctrines  the  com- 
mandments of  men.  Acts  xvii.  25.  Neither  is  worshipped  with 
men's  hands,  as  though  he  needed  any  thing,  seeing  he  giveth  to  all 
life,  and  breath,  and  all  things.  Mat.  iv.  9.  And  saith  unto  him, 
All  these  things  will  I  give  thee,  if  thou  wilt  fall  down  and  worship 
me.  v.  10.  Then  saith  Jesus  unto  him,  Get  thee  hence,  Satan:  for  it  is 
written,  Thou  shalt  worship  the  Lord  thy  God,  and  him  only  shalt 
thou  serve.  (Deut.  xv.  to  the  20th  verse.)  Exod.  xx.  4.  Thou  shalt 
not  make  unto  thee  any  graven  image,  or  any  likeness  of  any  thing 
that  is  in  heaven  above,  or  that  is  in  the  earth  beneath,  or  that  is  in 


Chap.  2 1 .         the  Confession  of  Faith.  I 2 1 

II.  Religious  worship  is  to  be  given  to  God, 
the  Father,  Son,  and  Holy  Ghost;  and  to  him 
alone  \c  not  to  angels,  saints,  or  any  other  crea- 
ture \d  and,  since  the  fall,  not  without  a  Media- 
tor; nor  in  the  mediation  of  any  other  but  of 
Christ  alone.tf 

III.  Prayer,  with  thanksgiving,  being  one  spe- 
cial part  of  religious  worship/ is  by  God  required 
of  all  men  ;g  and,  that  it  may  be  accepted,  it  is 

the  water  under  the  earth,  v.  5.  Thou  shalt  not  bow  down  thyself 
to  them,  nor  serve  them :  for  I  the  Lord  thy  God  am  a  jealous  God, 
visiting  the  iniquity  of  the  fathers  upon  the  children  unto  the  third 
and  fourth  generation  of  them  that  hate  me:  v.  6.  And  shewing 
,mercy  unto  thousands  of  them  that  love  me,  and  keep  my  command- 
ments. Col.  ii.  23.  Which  things  have  indeed  a  shew  of  wisdom 
in  will-worship  and  humility,  and  neglecting  of  the  body,  not  in  any 
honour  to  the  satisfying  of  the  flesh. 

II.  c  Mat.  iv.  10.  (See  before  in  letter  £.)  With  John  v.  23.  That 
all  men  should  honour  the  Son  even  as  they  honour  the  Father.  He 
that  honoureth  not  the  Son,  honoureth  not  the  Father  which  hath 
sent  him.  And  2  Cor.  xiii.  14.  The  grace  of  the  Lord  Jesus  Christ, 
and  the  love  of  God,  and  the  communion  of  the  Holy  Ghost,  be 
with  you  all.     Amen. 

d  Col.  ii.  18.  Let  no  man  beguile  you  of  your  reward  in  a  vo- 
luntary humility  and  worshipping  of  angels,  intruding  into  those 
things  which  he  hath  not  seen,  vainly  puft  up  by  his  fleshly  mind. 
Rev.  xix.  10.  And  I  fell  at  his  feet  to  worship  him  :  and  he  said  unto 
me,  See  thou  do  it  not :  I  am  thy  fellow-servant,  and  of  thy  brethren 
that  have  the  testimony  of  Jesus:  worship  God:  for  the  testi- 
mony of  Jesus  is  the  spirit  of  prophecy.  Rom.  i.  25.  Who  changed 
the  truth  of  God  into  a  lie,  and  worshipped  and  served  the  creature 
more  than  the  Creator,  who  is  blessed  for  ever.     Amen. 

e  John  xiv.  6.  Jesus  saith  unto  him,  I  am  the  way,  and  the  truth, 
and  the  life  :  no  man  cometh  unto  the  Father  but  by  me.  1  Tim.  ii. 
5.  For  there  is  one  God,  and  one  Mediator  between  God  and  man, 
the  man  Christ  Jesus.  Eph.  ii.  18.  For  through  him  we  both  have 
an  access  by  one  Spirit  unto  the  Father.  Col.  hi.  1  7.  And  whatso- 
ever ye  do'in  word  or  deed,  do  all  in  the  name  of  the  Lord  Jesus, 
giving  thanks  to  God  and  the  Father  by  him. 

III.  f  Phil.  iv.  6.  Be  careful  for  nothing:  but  in  everything  by 
prayer  and  supplication  with  thanksgiving,  let  your  requests  be  made 
known  unto  God. 

g  PsaL  lxv.  2.  O  thou  that  hearest  prayer,  unto  thee  shall  all  flesh 


come. 


CL 


1 2  2  *fhe  Confession  of  Faith.       Chap.  2 1 , 

to  be  made  in  the  name  of  the  Son,/>  by  the  help 
of  his  Spirit,/ according  to  his  will,/£  with  under- 
standing-, reverence,  humility,  fervency,  faith, 
love,  and  perseverance ;/  and,  if  vocal,  in  a  known 
tongue.;/* 

IV.  Prayer  is  to  be  made  for  things  lawful,» 

h  John  xiv.  13.  And  whatsoever  ye  shall  ask  in  my  name,  that 
will  I  do,  that  the  Father  may  be  glorified  in  the  Son.  v.  14.  If  ye 
shall  ask  any  thing  in  my  name,  I  will  do  it.  1  Pet.  ii.  5.  Ye  also, 
as  lively  stones,  are  built  up  3  spiritual  house,  an  holy  priesthood 
to  offer  up  spiritual  sacrifices,  acceptable  to  God  by  Jesus  Christ. 

i  Rom.  viii.  26.  Likewise  the  Spirit  also  helpeth  our  infirmities: 
for  we  know  not  what  we  should  pray  for  as  we  ought:  but  the  Spirit 
itself  maketh  intercession  for  us  with  groanings  which  cannot  be  ut- 
tered. 

k  1  John  v.  14.  And  this  is  the  confidence  that  we  have  in  him, 
that  if  we  ask  any  thing  according  to  his  will  he  heareth  us. 

/  Psal.  xlvii.  7.  For  God  is  the  king  of  all  the  earth,  sing  ye  praises 
with  understanding.  Eccl.  v.  1.  Keep  thy  foot  when  thou  goest  to 
the  house  of  God,  and  be  more  ready  to  hear  than  to  give  the  sacri- 
fice of  fools:  for  they  consider  not  that  they  do  evil.  v.  2.  Be  not 
rash  with  thy  mouth,  and  let  not  thine  heart  be  hasty  to  utter  any 
thing  before  God  :  for  God  is  in  heaven,  and  thou  upon  earth  i  there- 
fore let  thy  words  be  few.  Heb.  xii.  28.  Wherefore,  we  receiving  a 
kingdom  which  cannot  be  moved,  let  us  have  grace  whereby  we 
may  serve  God  acceptably,  with  reverence  and  godly  fear.  Gen. 
xviii.  27.  And  Abraham  answered  and  said,  Behold  now,  I  have 
taken  upon  me  to  speak  unto  the  Lord,  which  am  but  dust  and  ashes. 
Jam.  v.  j6.  Confess  your  faults  one  to  another,  and  pray  one  for 
another,  that  ye  may  be  healed:  The  effectual  fervent  prayer  of  a 
righteous  man  availeth  much.  Jam.  i.  6.  But  let  him  ask  in  faith, 
nothing  wavering:  for  he  that  wavereth  is  like  a  wave  of  the  sea, 
driven  with  the  wind,  and  tossed,  v.  7.  For  let  not  that  man  think 
that  he  shall  receive  any  thing  of  the  Lord.  Mark  xi.  24.  Therefore 
I  say  unto  you,  What  things  soever  ye  desire  when  ye  pray,  believe 
that  ye  receive  them,  and  ye  shall  have  them.  Mat.  vi.  12.  And 
forgive  us  our  debts,  as  we  forgive  our  debtors,  v.  14.  For,  if  you 
forgive  men  their  trespasses,  your  heavenly  father  will  also  forgive 
you.  v.  15.  But  if  ye  forgive  not  m^n  their  trespasses,  neither  will 
your  Father  forgive  your  trespasses.  Col.  iv.  2.  Continue  in  prayer, 
and  watch  in  the  same  with  thanksgiving.  Eph.  vi.  18.  Praying 
always  with  all  prayer  and  supplication  in  the  Spirit,  and  watching 
thereunto  with  all  perseverance,  and  supplication  for  all  saints. 

m  1  Cor.  xiv.  14.  For  if  1  pray  in  ai!  unknown  tongue,  my  spi- 
rit prayeth,  but  my  understanding  is  unfruitful. 

IV.  n  (1  John  v.  14.  .See  letter  k.) 


Chap.  2 1 .       ''the  Confession  of  Faith,  223 

and  for  all  sorts  of  men  living,  or  that  shall  live 
hereafter  ;o  but  not  for  the  dead,/*  nor  for  those  of 
whom  it  may  be  known  that  they  have  sinned  the 
sin  unto  death.^ 

V.  The  reading  of  the  scriptures  with  godly 
fear;r  the   sound  preaching,/  and   conscionable 

«  1  Tim.  ii.  1.  I  exhort,  therefore,  that  first  of  all,  supplications, 
prayers,  intercessions,  and  giving  of  thanks  be  made  for  all  men : 
v.  2.  For  kings,  and  for  all  that  are  in  authority;  that  we  may  lead  a. 
quiet  and  peaceable  life  in  all  godliness  and  honesty.  John  xvii.  so. 
Neither  pray  I  for  these  alone,  but  for  them  also  which  shall  believe 
on  me  through  their  word.  2  Sam.  vii.  29.  Therefore  now  let  it 
please  thee  to  bless  the  house  of  thy  servant,  that  it  may  continue  for 
ever  before  thee:  for  thou,  O  Lord  God,  hast  spoken  it,  and  with 
thy  blessing  let  the  house  of  thy  servant  be  blessed  for  ever.  Ruth 
iv.  iz.  And  let  thy  house  be  like  the  house  of  Pharez  (whom  Tamar 
bare  unto  Judah)  of  the  seed  which  the  Lord  shall  give  thee  of  this 
young  woman. 

fi  2  Sam.  xii.  21.  Then  said  his  servants  unto  him,  What  thing  is 
this  that  thou  hast  done  ?  thou  didst  fast  and  weep  for  the  child  while 
it  was  alive,  but  when  the  child  was  dead,  thou  didst  arise  and  eat 
bread,  v.  22.  And  he  said,  While  the  child  was  yet  alive,  I  fasted 
and  wept:  for  I  said,  Who  can  tell  whether  God  will  be  gracious 
to  me,  that  the  child  may  live?  v.  23.  But  now  he  is  dead,  where- 
fore should  I  fast  ?  can  I  bring  him  back  again  ?  I  shall  go  to  him, 
but  he  shall  not  return  to  me.  With  Luke  xvi.  25.  But  Abraham 
said.  Son,  remember  that  thou  in  thy  lifetime  receivedst  thy  good 
things,  and  likewise  Lazarus  evil  things:  but  now  he  is  comforted, 
and  thou  art  tormented,  v.  26.  And  besides  all  this,  between  us  and 
you  there  is  a  great  gulph  fixed:  so  that  they  which  would  pass  from 
hence  to  you  cannot;  neither  can  they  pass  to  us  that  would  come 
from  thence.  Rev.  xiv.  13.  And  I  heard  a  voice  from  heaven,  say- 
ing unto  me,  Write,  Blessed  are  the  dead  which  die  in  the  Lord, 
from  henceforth :  yea,  saith  the  Spirit,  that  they  may  rest  from  their 
labours;  and  their  works  do  follow  them. 

q  I  John  v.  16.  If  any  man  see  his  brother  sin  a  sin  which  is  not 
unto  death,  he  shall  ask,  and  he  shall  give  him  life  for  them  that  sin 
not  unto  death.  There  is  a  sin  unto  death:  I  do  not  say  that  he 
shall  pray  for  it. 

V.  r  Acts  xv.  21.  For  Moses  of  old  time  hath  in  every  city  them 
that  preach  him,  being  read  in  the  synagogues  every  Sabbath-day. 
Rev.  i.  3.  Blessed  is  he  that  readeth,  and  they  that  hear  the  words  of 
this  prophecy,  and  keep  those  things  which  are  written  therein :  for 
the  time  is  at  hand. 

s  2  Tim.  iv.  2.  Preach  the  word;  be  instant  in  season,  out  of  sea- 
son ;  reprove,  rebuke,  exhort  with  all  long-suffering  and  doctrine. 


124  *rhe  Confession  of  Faith.       Chap.  2 1 . 

hearing  of  the  word,  in  obedience  unto  God,  with 
understanding,  faith,  and  reverence  \t  singing  of 
psalms  with  grace  in  the  heart  ;v  as  also,  the  due 
administration  and  worthy  receiving  of  the  sacra- 
ments  instituted  by  Christ;  arc  all  parts  of  the 
ordinary  religious  worship  of  God  :w  besides  re- 
ligious oaths  at  and  vows,/  solemn  fastings, z  and 

t  James  i.  22.  But  be  ye  doers  of  the  word,  and  not  hearers  only, 
deceiving  your  own  selves.  Acts  x.  33.  Immediately,  therefore,  I 
sent  to  thee;  and  thou  hast  well  done,  that  thou  art  come.  Now, 
therefore,  are  we  all  here  present  before  God,  to  hear  all  things  that 
are  commanded  thee  of  God.  Mat.  xiii.  19.  When  any  one  heareth 
the  word  of  the  kingdom,  and  understandeth  it  not,  then  cometh  the 
wicked  one,  and  catcheth  away  that  which  was  sown  in  his  heart; 
this  is  he  which  received  seed  by  the  way-side.  Heb.  iv.  2.  For 
unto  us  was  the  gospel  preached,  as  well  as  unto  them:  but  the  word 
preached  did  not  profit  them,  not  being  mixed  with  faith  in  them  that 
heard  it.  Isa.  lxvi.  2.  For  all  those  things  hath  mine  hand  made, 
and  all  those  things  have  been,  saith  the  Lord:  but  to  this  man  will 
I  look,  even  to  him  that  is  poor  and  of  a  contrite  spirit,  and  trembleth 
at  my  word. 

v  Col.  iii.  16.  Let  the  word  of  Christ  dwell  in  you  richly  in  all 
wisdom;  teaching  and  admonishing  one  another  in  psalms,  and 
hymns,  and  spiritual  songs,  singing  with  grace  in  your  hearts  to  the 
Lord.  Eph.  v.  19.  Speaking  to  yourselves  in  psalms,  and  hymns, 
and  spiritual  songs,  singing  and  making  melody  in  your  hearts  to  the 
Lord.  James  v.  13.  Is  any  among  you  afflicted  ?  let  him  pray.  Is 
any  merry  ?  let  him  sing  psalms. 

wMat.  xxviii.  19.  Go  ye,  therefore,  and  teach  all  nations,  baptiz- 
ing them  in  the  name  of  the  Father,  and  of  the  Son,  and  of  the  Holy 
Ghost.  (1  Cor.  xi.  23  to  verse  29.)  Acts  ii.  42.  And  they  conti- 
nued stedtastly  in  the.  apostles'  doctrine  and  fellowship,  and  in  break- 
ing of  bread,  and  in  prayers. 

x  Deut.  vi.  13.  Thou  shalt  fear  the  Lord  thy  God,  and  serve  him, 
and  shalt  swear  by  his  name.  With  Neh.  x.  29.  They  clave  to 
their  brethren,  their  nobles,  and  entered  into  a  curse,  and  into  an 
oath,  fo  walk  in  God's  law,  which  was  given  by  Moses  the  servant 
of  God,  and  to  observe  and  do  all  the  commandments  of  the  Lord 
our  God,  and  his  judgments  and  his  statutes. 

y  Isa.  xix.  21.  And  the  Lord  shall  be  known  to  Egypt,  and  the 
Egyptians  shall  know  the  Lord  in  that  day,  and  shall  do  sacrifice  and 
tion  ;  yea,  they  shall  vow  a  vow  unto  the  Lord,  and  perform  it. 
With  Eccl.  v.  4.  When  thou  vowest  a  vow  unto  God,  deter  not  to 
pay  it,  for  he  hath  no  pleasure  in  fools  ;  pay  that  which  thou  hast 
vowed,  v.  5.  Better  is  it  that  thou  shouldst  not  vow,  than  that  thou 
shouldst  vow  and  not  pay. 

z  Joel  ii.  12.  Therefore  also  no;v,  saith  the  Lord,  Turn  ye  even 


Chap.  21.        The  Confession  of  Faith.  1 2  5 

thanksgivings  upon  special  occasions,*?  which  are, 
in  their  several  times  and  seasons,  to  be  used  in  an 
holy  and  religious  manner./* 

VI.  Neither  prayer,  nor  any  other  part  of  re- 
ligious worship,  is,  now,  under  the  gospel,  either 
tied  unto,  or  made  more  acceptable  by  any  place 
in  which  it  is  performed,  or  towards  which  it  is 
directed  :c  but  God  is  to  be  worshipped  every 
where,*/  in  spirit  and  truth  \e  as  in  private  fami- 

to  me  with  all  your  heart,  and  with  fasting,  and  with  weeping,  and 
with  mourning:  Esth.  iv.  16.  Go,  gather  together  all  the  Jews  that 
are  present  in  Shushan,and  fast  ye  for  me,  and  neither  eat  nor  drink 
three  days,  night  or  day;  I  also  and  my  maidens  will  fast  likewise, 
and  so  will  I  go  in  unto  the  king,  which  is  not  according  to  the  law ; 
and  if  I  perish,  I  perish.  Mat.  ix.  15.  And  Jesus  said  unto  them, 
Can  the  children  of  the  bride-chamber  mourn,  as  long  as  the  bride- 
groom  is  with  them?  but  the  days  will  come,  when  the  bridegroom 
shall  be  taken  from  them,  and  then  shall  they  fast.  1  Cor.  vn.  5. 
Defraud  ye  not  one  the  other,  except  it  be  with  consent  for  a  time, 
that  ye  may  give  yourselves  to  fasting  and  prayer ;  and  come  together 
again,  that  Satan  tempt  you  not  for  your  mcontinency.  # 

a  (Psal.  cvii.  throughout.)  Esther  ix.  22.  As  the  days  wherein  the 
Jews  rested  from  their  enemies,  and  the  month  which  was  turned 
unto  them  from  sorrow  to  joy,  and  from  mourning  into  a  goou  cay: 
that  they  should  make  them  days  of  feasting  and  joy,  and  of  sending 
portions  one  to  another,  and  gifts  to  the  poor. 

b  Heb.  xii.  28.  Wherefore,  we  receiving  a  kingdom  which  cannot 
be  moved,  let  us  have  grace  whereby  we  may  serve  God  acceptably, 
with  reverence  and  godly  fear. 

VI.  c  John  iv.  21.  Jesus  saith  unto  her,  Woman,  believe  me,  the 
hour  cometh,  when  ye  shall  neither  in  this  mountain,  nor  yet  at  Je- 
rusalem, worship  the  Father. 

d  Mai.  i.  1 1.  For  from  the  rising  of  the  sun  even  unto  the  going 
down  of  the  same,  my  name  shall  be  great  among  the  Gentiles,  and 
in  every  place  incense  shall  be  offered  unto  my  name,  and  a  pure 
offering:  for  my  name  shall  be  great  among  the  heathen,  saith  the 
Lord  of  hosts.  1  Tim.  ii.  8.  I  will  therefore  that  men  pray  every 
where,  lifting  up  holy  hands  without  wrath  and  doubting. 

e  John  iv.  23.  But  the  hour  cometh,  and  now  is,  when  the  true 
worshippers  shall  worship  the  Father  in  spirit  and  in  truth:  for  the 
Father  seeketh  such  to  worship  him.  v.  24.  God  is  a  Spirit,  and  they 
fhat  worship  him,  must  worship  hirn  in  spirit  and  in  truth. 


126  The  Confession  of  Faith.       Chap.  2 1 . 

liesydaily,^  and  in  secret,  each  one  by  Jiimself,/6 
so  more  solemnly  in  the  public  assemblies,  which 
are  not  carelessly  or  wilfully  to  be  neglected  or 
forsaken,  when  God,  by  his  word  or  providence, 
calleth  thereunto./ 

f  Jer.  x.  25.  Pour  out  thy  fury  upon  the  heathen  that  know  thee 
rot,  and  upon  the  families  that  call  not  on  thy  name  :  for  they  have 
eaten  up  Jacob,  and  devoured  him,  and  consumed  him,  and  have 
made  his  habitation  desolate.  Deut.  vi.  6.  And  these  words  which  I 
command  thee  this  day  shall  be  in  thine  heart :  v.  7.  And  thou  shalt 
teach  them  diligently  unto  thy  children,  and  shalt  talk  of  them  when 
thou  sittest  in  thine  house,  and  when  thou  walkest  by  the  way,  and 
when  thou  liest  down,  and  when  thou  risest  up.  Job  i.  <j.  And  it 
was  so,  when  the  days  of  their  feasting  were  gone  about,  that  Job 
sent  and  sanctified  them,  and  rose  up  early  in  the  morning,  and  offer- 
ed burnt-offerings,  according  to  the  number  of  them  all:  for  Job 
said,  It  may  be  that  my  sons  have  sinned,  and  cursed  God  in  their 
hearts.  Thus  did  Job  continually.  2  Sam.  vi.  18.  And  as  soon  as 
David  had  made  an  end  of  offering  burnt-offerings,  and  peace-ofFer- 
ings,  he  blessed  the  people  in  the  name  o\  the  Lord  of  hosts,  v.  20. 
Then  David  returned  to  bless  his  household.  1  Peter  iii.  7.  Like- 
wise, ye  husbands,  dwell  with  them  according  to  knowledge,  giving 
honour  unto  the  wife  as  unto  the  weaker  vessel,  and  as  being  heirs 
together  of  the  grace  of  life;  that  your  prayers  be  not  hindered. 
Afts  x.  2.  A  devout  man,  and  one  that  feared  God  with  all  his 
house,  which  gave  much  alms  to  the  people,  and  prayed  to  God 
alway. 

g  Mat.  vi.  11.  Give  us  this  day  our  daily  bread. 

h  Mat.  vi.  6.  But  thou,  when  thou  prayesf,  enter  into  thy  closet, 
and  when  thou  hast  shut  thy  door,  pray  to  thy  Father  which  is  in  se- 
cret, and  thy  Father  which  seeth  in  secret,  shall  reward  thee  openly. 
Eph.  vi.  18.  Praying  always  with  all  prayer  and  supplication  in  the 
Spirit,  and  watching  thereunto  with  all  perseverance,  and  supplica- 
tion for  all  saints. 

/  Isa.  lvi.  6.  Also  the  sons  of  the  stranger,  that  join  themselves  to 
the  Lord,  to  serve  him,  and  to  love  the  name  of  the  Lord,  to  be  his 
servants,  every  one  that  keepeth  the  Sabbath  from  polluting  it,  and 
taketh  hold  of  my  covenant :  v.  7.  Even  them  will  I  bring  to  my 
holy  mountain,  and  make  them  joyful  in  my  house  of  prayer:  their 
burnt-offerings  and  their  sacrifices  shall  be  accepted  upon  mine  altar ; 
tor  mine  house  shall  be  called  an  house  of  prayer  tor  all  people.  Heb. 
x.  25.  Not  forsaking  the  assembling  of  ourselves  together,  as  the  man- 
ner of  some  is;  but  exhorting  one  another:  and  so  much  the  more, 
as  ye  see  the  day  approaching.  Prov.  i.  20.  Wisdom  crieth  without, 
the  uttereth  her  voice  in  the  streets:  v.  21.  She  crieth  in  the  chief 


Chap.  2 1 .       T'/je  Confession  of  Faith.  izy 

VIL  As  it  is  of  the  law  of  nature,  that,  in  ge- 
neral, a  due  proportion  of  time  be  set  apart  for 
the  worship  of  God ;  so  in  his  word,  by  a  posi- 
tive, moral,  and  perpetual  commandment,  bind- 
ing all  men  in  all  ages,  he  hath  particularly  ap- 
pointed one  day  in  seven  for  a  Sabbath,  to  be  kept 
holy  unto  him  \k  which,  from  the  beginning  of 
the  world  to  the  resurrection  of  Christ,  was  the 
last  day  of  the  week,  and,  from  the  resurreclion 
of  Christ,  was  changed  into  the  first  day  of  the 
week,/  which  in  scripture  is  called  the  Lord's 

place  of  concourse,  in  the  openings  of  the  gates:  in  the  city  she  ut- 
tereth  her  words,  saying,  v.  24.  Because  I  have  called,  and  ye  re- 
fused, I  have  stretched  out  my  hand,  and  no  man  regarded.  Prov. 
viii.  34.  Blessed  is  the  man  that  heareth  me,  watching  daily  at  my 
gates,  waiting  at  the  posts  of  my  doors.  Acts  xiii.  42.  And  when 
the  Jews  were  gone  out  of  the  synagogue,  the  Gentiles  besought  that 
these  words  might  be  preached  to  them  the  next  Sabbath.  Lukeiv. 
16.  And  he  came  to  Nazareth,  where  he  had  been  brought  up:  and, 
as  his  custom  was,  he  went  into  the  synagogue  on  the  Sabbath-day, 
and  stood  up  for  to  read.  Acts  ii.  42.  And  they  continued  stedfastly 
in  the  apostles'  doctrine,  and  fellowship,  and  in  breaking  of  bread, 
and  in  prayers. 

VII.  k  Exod.  xx.  8.  Remember  the  Sabbath-day,  to  keep  it  holy. 
v.  10.  But  the  seventh  day  is  the  Sabbath  of  the  Lord  thy  God:  in 
it  thou  shalt  not  do  any  work,  thou,  nor  thy  son,  nor  thy  daughter, 
thy  man-servant,  nor  thy  maid-servant,  nor  thy  cattle,  nor  thy 
stranger  that  is  within  thy  gates,  v.  ir.  For  in  six  days  the  Lord 
made  heaven  and  earth,  the  sea,  and  all  that  in  them  is,  and  rested 
the  seventh  day:  wherefore  the  Lord  blessed  the  Sabbath-dav, 
and  hallowed  it.  Isa.  lvi.  2.  Blessed  is  the  man  that  doeth  this, 
and  the  son  of  man  that  layeth  hold  on  it:  that  keepeth  the  Sabbath 
from  polluting  it,  and  keepeth  his  hand  from  doing  any  evil.  v.  4. 
For  thus  saith  the  Lord  unto  the  eunuchs  that  keep  my  Sabbaths,  and 
chuse  the  things  that  please  me,  and  take  hold  of  my  covenant,  v.  6, 
7.     (See  in  letter  i.) 

I  Gen.  ii.  2.  And  on  the  seventh  day  God  ended  his  work  which 
be  had  made ;  and  he  rested  on  the  seventh  day  from  all  his  work 
which  he  had  made.  v.  3.  And  God  blessed  the  seventh  day,  and 
sanctified  it:  because  that  in  it  he  had  rested  from  all  his  work,  which 
God  created  and  made.  1  Cor.  xvi.  1.  Now  concerning  the  col- 
lection for  the  saints,  as  I  have  given  order  to  the  churches  of  Gala- 
tia,  even  so  do  ye.     v.  2.  Upon  the  first  day  of  the  week,  let  every 


128  f%e  Confession  of  Faith.       Chap.  2 1  * 

day,;;z  and  is  to  be  continued  to  the  end  of  the 
world,  as  the  Christian  Sabbath./z 

VIII.  This  Sabbath  is  then  kept  holy  unto  the 
Lord,  when  men,  after  a  due  preparing  of  their 
hearts,  and  ordering  of  their  common  affairs  be- 
fore hand,  do  not  only  observe  an  holy  rest  all 
the  day,  from  their  own  works,  words,  and 
thoughts,  about  their  worldly  employments  and 
recreations, 0    but  also  are  taken  up  the   whole 

one  of  you  lay  by  him  in  store,  as  God  hath  prospered  him,  that  there 
be  no  gatherings  when  I  come.  Acts  xx.  7.  And  upon  the  first  day 
of  the  week,  when  the  disciples  came  together  to  break  bread,  Paul 
preached  unto  them,  ready  to  depart  on  the  morrow,  and  continued 
his  speech  until  midnight. 

m  Rev.  i.  10.  I  was  in  the  Spirit  on  the  Lord's  day,  and  heard  be- 
hind me  a  great  voice,  as  of  a  trumpet. 

n  Exod.  xx.  8,  10.  (See  letter  k.)  With  Mat.  v.  17.  Think  not 
that  I  am  come  to  destroy  the  law  or  the  prophets :  I  am  not  come  to 
destroy,  but  to  fulfil,  v.  18.  For  verily  I  say  unto  you,  Till  hea- 
ven and  earth  pass,  one  jot  or  one  tittle  shall  in  no  wise  pass  from  the 
law,  till  all  be  fulfilled. 

VIII.  0  Exod.  xx.  S.  (See  letter  k.)  Exod.  xvi.  23.  And  he  said 
unto  them,  This  is  that  which  the  Lord  hath  said,  To-morrow  is  the 
rest  of  the  Holy  Sabbath  unto  the  Lord :  bake  that  which  ye  will 
bake  to-day,  and  seethe  that  ye  will  seethe;  and  that  which  remain- 
eth  over,  lay  up  for  you,  to  be  kept  until  the  morning,  v.  2£. 
And  Moses  said,  Eat  that  to-day ;  for  to-day  is  a  Sabbath  unto  the 
Lord:  to-day  ye  shall  not  find  it  in  the  field,  v.  26.  Six  days  ye 
shall  gather  it;  but  on  the  seventh  day,  which  is  the  Sabbath,  in  it 
there  shall  be  none.  v.  29.  See,  for  that  the  Lord  hath  given  you 
the  Sabbath,  therefore  he  giveth  you  on  the  sixth  day  the  bread  of  two 
days:  abide  ye  every  man  in  his  place,  let  no  man  go  out  of  his  place 
on  the  seventh  day.  v.  30.  So  the  people  rested  on  the  seventh  day. 
Exod.  xxxi.  15.  Six  days  may  work  be  done,  but  in  tli£  seventh  is 
the  Sabbath  ot  rest,  holy  to  the  Lord  :  whosoever  doth  any  work  in 
tfae  Sabbath-day,  he  shall  surely  be  put  to  death,  v.  16.  Wherefore 
the  children  of  Israel  shall  keep  the  Sabbath,  to  observe  the  Sabbath 
throughout  their  generations,  for  a  perpetual  covenant,  v.  17.  It  is 
a  sign  between  me  and  the  children  of  Israel  for  ever:  for  in  six  days 
the  Lord  made  heaven  and  earth,  and  on  the  seventh  day  he 
rested,  and  was  refreshed.  Isa.  lviii.  13.  If  thou  turn  away  thy  foot 
from  the  Sabbath,  from  doing  thy  pleasure  on  my  holy  day,  and  call 
the  Sabbath  a  delight,  the  holy  of  the  Lord,  honourable,  and  shalt 
honour  him,  not  doing  thine  own  ways,  nur  finding  thine  own  plea- 


Chap.  2  2 .       tfbe  Confession  of  Faith.  229 

time  in  the  public  and  private  exercises  of  his 
worship,  and  in  the  duties  of  necessity  and  mer- 
cy./ 


Chap.  XXII.     Of  lawful  Oaths  and  Vows. 

Jl\  Lawful  oath  is  a  part  of  religious  worships 
wherein,  upon  just  occasion,  the  person  swear- 
ing, solemnly  calleth  God  to  witness  what  he  as- 
serteth  or  promiseth,  and  to  judge  him  according 
to  the  truth  or  falsehood  of  what  he  sweareth.^ 

sure,  nor  speaking  thine  own  words.  Neh.  xiii.  15.  In  those  days 
saw  I  in  Judah,  some  treading  wine-presses  on  the  Sabbath,  and 
bringing  in  sheaves,  and  lading  asses  ;  as  also  wine,  grapes  and  figsa 
and  all  manner  of  burdens  which  they  brought  into  Jerusalem  on 
the  Sabbath-day ;  and  I  testified  against  them  in  the  day  wherein  they 
sold  viftuals.  v.  16.  There  dwelt  men  of  Tyre  also  therein,  which 
brought  fish,  and  all  manner  of  ware,  and  sold  on  the  Sabbath,  unto 
the  children  of  Judah,  and  in  Jerusalem,  v.  17.  Then  I  contended 
with  the  nobles  of  Judah,  and  said  unto  them,  What  evil  thing  is 
this  that  ye  do,  and  profane  the  Sabbath-day?  v.  18.  Did  not  your 
fathers  thus,  and  did  not  our  God  bring  all  this  evil  upon  us,  and 
upon  this  city?  yet  ye  bring  more  wrath  upon  Israel,  by  profaning 
the  Sabbath,  v.  19.  And  it  came  to  pass,  that  when  the  gates  of  Je- 
rusalem began  to  be  dark,  before  the  Sabbath,  I  commanded  that  the 
gates  should  be  shut,  and  charged  that  they  should  not  be  opened  till 
after  the  Sabbath  :  and  some  of  my  servants  set  I  at  the  gates,  that 
there  should  no  burden  be  brought  in  on  the  Sabbath-day.  v.  21. 
Then  I  testified  against  them,  and  said  unto  them,  Why  lodge  ye 
about  the  wall  ?  It  ye  do  so  again,  I  will  lay  hands  on  you^  From, 
that  time  forth  came  they  no  more  on  the  Sabbath,  v.  22.  And  £ 
commanded  the  Levites,  that  they  should  cleanse  themselves,  and 
that  they  should  come  and  keep  the  gates,  to  sanctify  the  Sabbath- 
day.  Remember  me,  O  my  God,  concerning  this  also,  and  spare 
me  according  to  the  greatness  of  thy  mercy. 
Ji  Isa.  lviii.  13.   (See  in  letter  0.)  Mat.  xii.  1.  to  the  13th  verse. 

I.  a  Deut.  x.  20.  Thou  shalt  fear  the  Lord  thy  God ;  him  shalt 
thou  serve,  and  to  him  shalt  thou  cleave,  and  swear  by  his  name. 

b  Exod.  xx.  7.  Thou  shalt  not  take  the  name  of  the  Lord  thy 
God  in  vain  :  for  the  Lord  will  not  hold  him  guiltless  that  taketh  his 
name  in  vain.     Lev.  xix.  12.  And  ye  shall  not  swear  by  my  name 

R 


i^o  The  Confession  of  Faith.       Chap.  2JV 

II.  The  name  of  God  only  is  that  by  which 
men  ought  to  swear,  and  therein  it  is  to  he  used 
with  all  holy  fear  and  reverence:*:  therefore  to 
swear  vainly  or  rashly  by  that  glorious  and  dread- 
ful name,  or  to  swear  at  all  by  any  other  thing, 
is  sinful,  and  to  be  abhorred.*/  Yet  as,  in  mat- 
ters of  weight  and  moment,  an  oath  is  warrant- 
ed by  the  word  of  God,  under  the  New  Testa- 
ment as  well  as  under  the  Old;*?  so  a  lawful 
oath  being  imposed  by  lawful  authority,  in  such 
matters,  ought  to  be  taken./ 

falsely,  neither  sbalt  tliou  profane  the  name  of  thy  God:  I  am  the 
Lord,  2  Cor.  i.  23.  Moreover,  I  call  God  for  a  record  vipon  my 
soul,  that  to  spare  you  I  came  not  as  yet  unto  Corinth.  2  Chron. 
vi.  22.  If  a  man  sin  against  his  neighbour,  and  an  oath  be  laid  upon 
him  to  make  him  swear,  and  the  oath  come  before  thine  altar  in  this 
house:  v.  23.  Then  hear  thou  from  heaven,  and  do,  and  judge  thy 
servants,  by  requiting  the  wicked,  by  recompensing  his  way  upon 
his  own  head;  and  by  justifying  the  righteous,  by  giving  him  accord- 
ing to  his  righteousness. 

II.  c  Dtut.  vi.  13.  Thou  shalt  fear  the  Lord  thy  God,  and  serve 
him,  and  shalt  swear  by  his  name. 

d  Exod.  xx.  7.  (See  letter  b.)  Jer.  v.  7.  How  shall  I  pardon  thee 
for  this?  thy  children  have  forsaken  me  and  sworn  by  them  that  are 
no  gods :  when  I  fed  them  to  the  full,  they  then  committed  adultery, 
and  assembled  themselves  by  troops  in  the  harlots'  houses.  Mat.  v.  34. 
But  I  say  unto  you,  Swear  not  at  all;  neither  by  heaven,  for  it  is 
God's  throne,  v.  37.  But  let  your  communication  be,  Yea,  yea; 
Nay,  nay;  for  whatsoever  is  more  than  these  cometh  of  evil. 
James  v.  12.  But  above  all  things,  my  brethren,  swear  not,  neither 
by  heaven,  neither  by  the  earth,  neither  by  any  other  oath:  but  let 
your  yea  be  yea,  and  your  nay,  nay;  lest  ye  fall  into  condem- 
nation. 

c  Heb.  vi.  16.  For  men  verily  swear  by  the  greater:  and  an  oath 
for  confirmation  is  to  them  an  end  of  all  strife.  2  Cor.  i.  23.  (See 
letter  b.)  Isa.  lxv.  16.  That  he  who  blesseth  himself  in  the  earth, 
shall  bless  himself  in  the  God  of  truth  ;  and  he  that  sweareth  in  the 
earth,  shall  swear  by  the  God  of  truth,  because  the  former  troubles 
are  forgotten,  and  because  they  are  hid  from  mine  eyes. 

f  1  Kings  viii.  31.  If  any  man  trespass  against  his  neighbour,  ami 
an  oath  be  laid  upon  him  to  cause  him  to  swear,  and  the  oath  come 
btfore  thine  altar  in  this  house.  Nth.  xiii.  l£.  And  I  contended 
with  them,  and  cursed  them,  and  smote  certain  of  them,  raid  plucked 


Chap.  2  2 .        fhe  Confession  of  Faith,  %  2  j 

III.  Whosoever  taketh  an  oath,  ought  duly  to 
consider  the  weightiness  of  so  solemn  an  acl,  and 
therein  to  avouch  nothing  but  what  he  is  fully 
persuaded  is  the  truth.g  Neither  may  any  man 
bind  himself  by  oath  to  any  thing  but  what  is 
good  and  just,  and  what  he  believeth  so  to  be, 
and  what  he  is  able  and  resolved  to  perform./^ 
Yet  it  is  a  sin  to  refuse  an  oath  touching  any 
thing  that  is  good  and  just,  being  imposed  by 
lawful  authority./ 

off  their  hair,  and  made  them  swear  by  God,  saying,  Ye  shall  not 
give  youf  daughters  unto  their  sons,  nor  take  their  daughters  unto 
your  sons,  or  for  yourselves.  Ezra  x.  5.  Then  arose  Ezra,  and  made 
the  chief  priests,  the  Levites,  and  all  Israel  to  swear,  that  they  should 
do  according  to  this  word  :  and  they  sware. 

III.  g  Exod.  xx.  7.  (See  letter  £.)  Jer.  iv.  2.  And  thou  shale 
swear,  The  Lord  liveth,  in  truth,  in  judgment,  and  in  righteousness; 
and  the  nations  shall  bless  themselves  in  him,  and  in  him  shall  they 
glory. 

h  Gen.  xxiv.  2.  And  Abraham  said  unto  his  eldest  servant  of  his 
house,  that  ruled  over  all  that  he  had,  Put,  I  pray  thee,  thy  hand  un- 
der my  thigh:  v.  3.  And  I  will  make  thee  swear  by  the  Lord,  the 
God  of  heaven,  and  the  God  of  the  earth,  that  thou  shalt  not  take  a 
wife  unto  my  son  of  the  daughters  of  the  Canaanites,  among  whom 
I  dwell,  v.  r.  And  the  servant  said  unto  him,  Peradventure  the  wo- 
man will  not  be  willing  to  follow  me  unto  this  land;  must  I  needs 
bring  thy  son  again  unto  the  land  from  whence  thou  earnest?  v.  6/. 
And  Abraham  said  unto  him,  Beware  thou,  that  thou  bring  not  my 
son  thither  again,  v.  8.  And  if  the  woman  will  not  be  willing  to  fol- 
low thee,  then  thou  shall  be  clear  from  this  my  oath  :  only  bring  not 
my  son  thither  again,  v.  9.  And  the  servant  put  his  hand  under  the 
thigh  of  Abraham  his  master,  and  sware  to  him  concerning  that 
matter. 

i  Numb.  v.  19.  And  the  priest  shall  charge  her  by  an  oath,  and 
say  unto  the  woman,  If  no  man  have  lien  with  thee,  and  if  thou  hast 
not  gone  aside  to  uncleanness  with  another  instead  of  thy  husband, 
be  thou  free  from  this  bitter  water  that  causeth  the  curse,  v.  21.  Then 
the  priest  shall  charge  the  woman  with  an  oath  of  cursing,  and  the 
priest  shall  say  unto  the  woman,  The  Lord  make  thee  a  curse,  and  an 
oath  among  the  people,  when  the  Lord  doth  make  thy  thigh  to  rot, 
and  thy  belly  to  swell.  Neh.  v.  12.  Then  said  they,  We -will  restore 
'them,  and  will  require  nothing  of  them ;  so  will  we  do  as  thou  sayest. 
Then  I  called  the  priests,  and  took  an  oath  of  them  that  they  should 
do  according  to  this  promise.     Exod.  xxii.  7.  If  a  man  shall  deliver 


132  The  Confession  of  Faith.       Chap .  22. 

IV.  An  oath  is  to  be  taken  in  the  plain  and 
common  sense  of  the  words,  without  equivoca- 
tion or  mental  reservation.^  It  cannot  oblige  to 
sin;  but  in  any  thing  not  sinful,  being  taken,  it 
binds  to  performance,  although  to  a  man's  own 
hurt;/  nor  is  it  to  be  violated,  although  made  to 
heretics  or  infidelsj/z 

unto  his  neighbour  money  ex  stuff  to  keep,  and  it  be  stolen  out  of 
the  man's  house ;  if  the  thief  be  found,  let  him  pay  double,  v.  8.  If 
the  thief  be  not  found,  then  the  master  of  the  house  shall  be  brought 
unto  the  judges,  to  see  whether  he  have  put  his  hands  unto  his 
neighbour's  goods,  v.  9.  For  all  manner  of  trespass,  whether  it  be 
for  ox,  for  ass,  for  sheep,  Jor  raiment,  or  for  any  manner  of  lost  thing, 
which  another  challengeth  to  be  his;  the  cause  of  both  parties  shall 
come  before  the  judges;  and  whom  the  judges  shall  condemn,  lie 
shall  pay  double  unto  his  neighbour,  v.  10.  If  a  man  deliver  unto 
his  neighbour  an  ass,  or  an  ox,  or  a  sheep,  or  any  beast  to  keep, 
and  it  die,  or  be  hurt,  or  driven  away,  no  man  seeing  it:  v.  11. 
Then  shall  an  oath  of  the  Lord  be  between  them  both,  that  he  hath 
not  put  his  hand  unto  his  neighbour's  goods :  and  the  owner  of  it 
shall  accept  thereof,  and  he  shall  not  make  it  good. 

IV.  k  Jer.  iv.  2.  (See  letter  £.)  Psai.  xxiv.  4.  He  that  hath  clean 
hands,  and  a  pure  heart :  who  hath  not  lift  up  his  soul  unto  vanity, 
nor  sworn  deceitfully. 

/  1  Sam.  xxv.  22.  So  and  more  also  do  God  unto  the  enemies  of 
David,  if  I  leave  of  all  that  pertain  to  him,  by  the  morning-light,  any 
that  pisscth  against  the  wall.  v.  52.  And  David  said  to  Abigail,  Blessed 
be  the  Lord  God  ot  Israel,  which  sent  thee  this  day  to  meet  me :  v.  33. 
And  blessed  be  thy  advice,  and  blessed  be  thou,  which  hast  kept  me 
this  day  from  coming  to  sued  blood,  and  from  avenging  myself  with 
mine  own  hand.  v.  34.  For  in  very  deed,  as  the  Lord  God  ot  Is- 
rael liveth,  which  haih  kept  me  back  from  hurting  thee,  except  thou 
hadst  hasted  and  come  to  meet  me,  surely  there  had  not  been  left  unto 
Alabal,  bv  the  morning-light,  any  that  pisserh  against  the  wall.  Psal. 
xv.  4.  In  whose  eyes  a  vile  person  is  contemned:  but  he  honoureth 
them  that  fear  the  Lord:  he  that  sweareth  to  his  own  hurt,  and  chang- 
eth  not. 

m  Ezek.  xvii.  16.  As  I  live,  saith  the  Lord  God,  surely  in  the 
place  where  the  king  dwellcth  that  made  him  king,  whose  oath  he 
despised,  and  whose  covenant  he  brake,  even  with  him,  in  the  midst 
of  Babylon  he  shall  die.  v.  18.  Seeing  he  despised  the  oath  by 
breaking  the  covenant,  (when  lo,  he  had  given  his  hand,)  and  hath 
done  all  these  things,  he  shall  not  escape,  v.  19.  Therefore  thus 
saith  the  Lord  God,  As  I  live,  surely  mine  oath  that  he  hath  despis- 
ed, and  my  covenant  that  he  hath  broken,  even  it  will  I  recompense 


pfcap.  2  2.        tfhe  Confession  of  Faith.  1 3  j 

V.  A  vow  is  of  the  like  nature  with  a  promis- 
sory oath,  and  ought  to  be  made  with  the  like  re- 
ligious care,  and  to  be  performed  with  the  like 
faithfulness.;? 

VI.  It  is  not  to  be  made  to  any  creature  but  to 
God  alone  ;o  and  that  it  may  be  accepted,  it  is  to 
be  made  voluntarily,  out  of  faith,  and  conscience 
of  duty,  in  way  of  thankfulness  for  mercy  receiv- 
ed, or  for  the  obtaining:  of  what  we  want ;  where- 

upon  his  own  head.  Josh.  ix.  iS.  And  the  children  of  Israel  smote 
them  not,  because  the  princes  of  the  congregation  had  sworn  unto 
them  by  the  Lord  God  of  Israel:  and  all  the  congregation  murmured 
against  the  princes,  v.  19.  But  all  the  princes  said  unto  all  the  con- 
gregation, We  have  sworn  unto  them  by  the  Lord  God  of  Israel: 
now,  therefore,  we  may  not  touch  them.  With  2  Sam.  xxi.  1.  Then 
there  was  a  famine  in  the  days  of  David  three  years,  year  after  year; 
and  David  inquired  of  the  Lord.  And  the  Lord  answered,  It  is  for 
Saul,   and  for  his  bloody  house,  because  he  slew  the  Gibeonites. 

V.  n  Isa.  xix.  21.  And  the  Lord  shall  be  known  to  Egypt,  and 
the  Egyptians  shall  know  the  Lord  in  that  day,  and  shall  do  sacrifice 
and  oblation;  yea,  they  shall  vow  a  vow  unto  the  Lord,  and  per- 
form it.  Eccl.  v.  4.  When  thou  vowest  a  vow  unto  God,  defer  not 
to  pay  it:  for  he  hath  no  pleasure  in  fools;  pay  that  which  thou 
hast  vowed,  v.  5.  Better  is  it  that  thou  shouidst  not  vow,  than  that 
thou  shouidst  vow  and  not  pay.  v.  6.  Suffer  not  thy  mouth  to 
cause  thy  flesh  to  sin,  neither  say  thou  before  the  angel,  that  it  was 
an  error:  wherefore  should  God  be  angry  at  thy  voice,  and  destroy 
the  work  of  thine  hands?  Psal.  lxi.  8.  So  will  I  sing  praise  unto 
thy  name  for  ever,  that  I  may  daily  perform  my  vows.  Psal.  lxvi. 
J 3.  I  will  go  into  thy  house  with  burnt-offerings:  I  will  pay  thee 
my  vows  v.  14.  Which  my  lips  have  uttered,  and  my  mouth  hath 
spoken,  when  I  was  in  trouble. 

VI.  0  Psal.  lxxvi.  11.  Vow,  and  pay  unto  the  Lord  your  God: 
Let  all  that  be  round  about  him  bring  presents  unto  him  that  ought 
to  be  feared.  Jer.  xliv.  25.  Thus  saith  the  Lord  of  hosts,  the  God 
of  Israel,  saying,  Ye  and  your  wives  have  both  spoken  with  your 
mouths,  and  fulfilled  with  your  hand,  saying,  We  will  surely  per- 
form our  vows  that  we  have  vowed,  to  burn  incense  to  the  queen  of 
heaven,  and  to  pour  out  drink-offerings  unto  her:  ye  will  surely 
accomplish  your  vows,  and  surely  perform  your  vows.  v.  26. 
Therefore  hear  ye  the  word  of  the  Lord,  all  Judah  that  dwell  in  the 
land  of  Egypt,  Behold,  I  have  sworn  by  my  great  name,  saith  the 
Lord,  that  my  name  shall  no  more  be  named  in  the  mouth  of  any 
jnan  of  Judah,  in  all  the  land  of  Egypt,  saying  the  Lord  God  fiveth. 


j  34  rfhe  Confession  of  Faith.       Chap.  22. 

by  we  more  strictly  bind  ourselves  to  necessary 
duties,  or  to  other  things,  so  far  and  so  long  as 
they  raav  fitly  conduce  thereunto./) 

VII.  No  man  may  vow  to  do  any  thing  for- 
bidden in  the  word  of  God,  or  what  would  hin- 
der any. duty  therein  commanded,  or  which  is  not 
in  his  own  power,  and  tor  the  performance  whereof 
he  hath  no  promise  or  ability  from  God.^  In  which 

Ji  Deut.  xxiii.  21.  When  thou  shalt  vow  a  vow  unto  the  Lord  thy 
God,  thou  shalt  not  slack  to  pay  it:  for  the  Lord  thy  God  will  surer 
ly  require  it  of  thee;  and  it  would  be  sin  in  thee.  v.  22.  But  if  thou 
shalt  forbear  to  vow,  it  shall  be  no  sin  in  thee.  v.  23.  That  which 
is  gone  out  of  thy  lips,  thou  shalt  keep  and  perform ;  even  a  free- 
will-offering, according  as  thou  hast  vowed  unto  the  Lord  thy  God, 
which  thou  hast  promised  with  thy  mouth.  Psal.  1.  14.  Offer  unto 
God  thanksgiving,  and  pay  thy  vows  unto  the  most  High,  Gen. 
xxviii.  20.  And  Jacob  vowed  a  vow,  saying,  If  God  will  be  with 
me,  and  will  keep  me  in  this  way  that  ]  go,  and  will  give  me  bread 
to  eat,  and  raiment  to  put  on;  v.  21.  So  that  I  come  again  to  my 
father's  house  in  peace;  then  shall  the  Lord  be  my  God.  v.  22.  And 
this  stone  which  I  have  set  for  a  pillar,  shall  be  God's  house:  and 
of  all  that  thou  shalt  give  me,  1  will  surely  give  the  tenth  unto  thee. 
I  Sam.  i.  11.  And  she  vowed  a  vow,  and  said,  O  Lord  ot  hosts,  if 
thou  wilt  indeed  look  on  the  affliction  of  thine  hand-maid,  and  re- 
member me,  and  not  forget  thine  hand-maid,  but  will  give  unto 
thine  hand-maid  a  man-child,  then  will  I  give  him  unto  the  Lord 
all  the  days  of  his  Hie,  and  then  shall  no  razor  come  upon  his  head. 
Psal.  lxvL  13,14-  (See  letter  «)  Psal.  Cxxxii.  z.  How  he  sware  unto 
the  Lord,  and  vowed  unto  the  mighty  God  of  Jacob;  v.  3.  Surely 
1  will  not  come  into  the  tabernacle  of  my  house,  nor  go  up  into  my 
bed:  v.  4.  I  will  not  give  sleep  to  mine  eyes,  or  slumber  to  mine 
eve-lids,  v.  5.  Until  I  find  out  a  place  for  the  Lord,  an  habitation 
for  the  mighty  God  of  Jacob. 

VII.  q  Acts  xxiii.  12.  And  when  it  was  day,  certain  of  the  Jews 
banded  together,  and  bound  themselves  under  a  curse,  saying,  that 
they  would  neither  eat  nor  drink  till  they  had  killed  Paul.  v.  14. 
And  they  came  to  the  chief  priests  and  elders,  and  said,  We  have 
bound  ourselves  under  a  great  curse,  that  we  will  eat  nothing  until 
we  have  slain  Paul.  Mark  vi.  26.  And  the  king  was  exceeding  sorry, 
vet  for  his  oath's  sake,  and  for  their  sakes  which  sat  with  him,  he 
would  not  reject  her.  Num.  xxx.  5.  But  if  her  father  disallow  her  in 
the  day  that  he  heareth;  not  any  of  her  vows  or  of  her  bonds,  where- 
with she  hath  bound  her  soul,  shall  stand:  and  the  Lord  shall  forgive 
her,  because  her  father  disallowed  her.     v.  S.  But  if  her  husband  dis* 


Chap.  23.        tfbe  Confession  of  Faith.  1 35 

respects,  Popish  monastical  vows,  of  perpetual 
single  life,  professed  poverty,  and  regular  obe- 
dience, are  so  far  from  being  degrees  of  higher 
perfection,  that  they  are  superstitious  and  sinful 
snares,  in  which  no  Christian  may  entangle  him- 
self.r 


Chap.  XXIII.     Of  the  Civil  Magistrate. 

IjrOD,  the  supreme  Lord  and  King  of  all  the 
world,  hath  ordained  civil  magistrates  to  be  un- 
der him,  over  the  people,  for  his  own  glorv,  and 
the  public  good ;  and,  to  this  end,  hath  armed 
them  with  the  power  of  the  sword,  for  the  de- 
fence and  encouragement  of  them  that  are  good, 
and  for  the  punishment  of  evil-doers.^ 

allow  her  on  the  day  that  he  heard  it;  then  he  shall  make  her  vow 
which  she  vowed,  and  that  which  she  uttered  with  her  lips,  where- 
with she  bound  her  soul,  of  none  effect;  and  the  Lord  shall  forgive 
her.  v.  12.  But  if  her  husband  hath  utterly  made  them  void  on  the 
day  he  heard  them;  then  whatsoever  proceeded  out  of  her  lips,  con- 
cerning her  vows,  or  concerning  the  bond  of  her  soul,  shall  not  stand: 
her  husband  hath  made  them  void,  and  the  Lord  shall  forgive  her. 
v.  13.  Every  vow,  and  every  binding  oath  to  afflicl:  the  soul,  her 
husband  may  establish  it,  or  her  husband  may  make  it  void. 

r  Matth.  xix.  it.  But  he  said  unto  them,  All  men  cannot  receive 
this  saying,  save  they  to  whom  it  is  given,  v.  12.  For  there  are 
some  eunuchs,  which  were  so  born  from  their  mother's  womb:  and 
there  are  some  eunuchs,  which  were  made  eunuchs  of  men:  and  there 
be  eunuchs,  which  have  made  themselves  eunuchs  for  the  kingdom  of 
heaven's  sake:  he  that  is  able  to  receive  it,  let  him  receive  it.  1  Cor. 
vii.  2.  Nevertheless,  to  avoid  fornication,  let  every  man  have  his 
own  wife,  and  let  every  woman  have  her  own  husband,  v.  9.  But 
If  they  cannot  contain,  let  them  marry:  for  it  is  better  to  marry  than 
to  burn.  Eph.  iv.  28.  Let  him  that  stole,  steal  no  more;  but  rather 
let  him  labour,  working  with  his  hands  the  thing  which  is  good, 
that  he  may  have  to  give  to  him  that  needeth.  1  Pet.  iv.  2.  That  he 
no  longer  should  live  the  rest  of  his  time  in  the  flesh,  to  the  lusts  ofc 
men,  but  to  the  will  of  God.  1  Cor.  vii.  2.3.  Ye  are  bought  with 
a  price,  be  not  ye  the  servants  of  men. 

I.  a  Rom.  xiii.    1.  Let  every  soui  be  subject  unto  the  higher 


136  'The  Confession  of  Faith.       Chap.  2p 

II.  It  is  lawful  for  Christians  to  accept  and  ex- 
ecute the  office  of  a  magistrate,  when  called 
thereunto:^  in  the  managing  whereof,  as  they 
ought  especially  to  maintain  piety,  justice,  and 
peace,  according  to  the  wholesome  laws  of  each 
commonwealth  \c  so,  for  that  end,  they  may  law- 
fully, now  under  the  New  Testament,  wage 
war  upon  just  and  necessary  occasions.;/ 

powers.  For  there  is  no  power  but  of  God :  the  powers  that  be,  are 
ordained  of  God.  v.  2.  Whosoever,  therefore,  resisteth  the  power, 
resisteth  the  ordinance  of  God:  and  they  that  resist,  shall  receive  to 
themselves  damnation,  v.  3.  For  rulers  are  not  a  terror  to  good 
works,  but  to  the  evil.  Wilt  thou  then  not  be  afraid  of  the  power? 
do  that  which  is  good,  and  thou  shalt  have  praise  of  the  same.  v.  4. 
For  he  is  the  minister  of  God  to  thee  for  good.  But  if  thou  do  that 
which  is  evil,  be  afraid;  for  he  beareth  not  the  sword  in  vain:  for 
be  is  the  minister  of  God,  a  revenger  to  execute  wrath  upon  hirrt 
that  dotth  evil.  1  Pet.  ii.  13.  Submit  yourselves  to  every  ordinance 
of  man  for  the  Lord's  sake:  whether  it  be  to  the  king  as,  supreme: 
v.  14.  Or  unto  governors,  as  unto  them  that  are  sent  by  him  for 
the  punishment  of  evil-doers,  and  for  the  praise  of  them  that  do  well. 

II.  b  Prov.  viii.  15.  By  me  kings  reign,  and  princes  decree  jus- 
tice, v.  16.  By  me  princes  rule,  and  nobles,  even  all  the  judges  of 
the  earth.     Rom.  xiii.  1,  2,  4.  (See  in  letter  a.) 

c  Psal.  ii.  10.  Be  wise  now,  therefore,  O  ye  kings:  be  instructed.* 
ye  judges  of  the  earth,  v.  11.  Serve  the  Lord  with  fear,  and  re- 
joice with  trembling,  v.  12.  Kiss  the  Son,  lest  he  be  angry,  and 
ye  perish  from  the  way,  when  his  wrath  is  kindled  but  a  little: 
blessed  are  all  they  that  put  their  trust  in  him.  1  Tim.  ii.  2.  For 
kings,  and  for  all  that  are  in  authority;  that  we  may  lead  a  quiet  and 
peaceable  life  in  all  godliness  and  honesty.  Psal.  Ixxxii.  3.  De- 
fend the  poor  and  fatherless:  do  justice  to  the  afflicted  and  needy. 
v.  4.  Deliver  the  poor  and  needy :  rid  them  out  of  the  hand  of  the 
wicked.  2  Sam.  xxiii.  3.  The  God  of  Israel  said,  the  Rock  of  Is- 
1  I  spake  to  me,  He  that  ruleth  over  men  must  be  just,  ruling  in 
the  fear  of  God.      1  Pet.  ii.  1  3.  (See  in  letter  a.) 

d  Luke  iii.  14.  And  the  soldiers  likewise  demanded  of  him,  say- 
ing, And  what  shall  we  do  ?  and  he  said  unto  them,  Do  violence  to 
no  man,  neither  accuse  any  falsely,  and  be  content  with  your  wa- 
ges. Rom.  xiii.  4.  (See  letter  a.)  Mat.  viii.  9.  For  I  am  a  man 
under  authority,  having  soldiers  under  me:  and  I  say  to  this  man, 
Go,  and  he  goeth  :  and  to, another,  Come,  and  he  cometh  :  and  to 
my  servant,  Do  this,  and  lie  doth  it.  v.  10.  When  Jesus  heard  it, 
he  marvelled,  and  said  to  them  that  followed,  Verily  I  say  unto  you, 


Chap.  2 3 .         Tthe  Confession  of  Faith.  1 3  7 

III.  The  civil  magistrate  may  not  assume  to 
himself  administration  of  the  word  and  sacra- 
ments, or  the  power  of  the  keys  of  the  kingdom  of 
heaven  ;e  yet,  as  the  gospel  revelation  lays  indis- 
pensible  obligations  upon  all  classes  of  people  who 
are  favoured  with  it,  magistrates,  as  such,  are 
bound  to  execute  their  respective  offices  in  a  sub- 


I  have  not  found  so  great  faith,  no  not  in  Israel.  A£ts  x.  i.  There 
was  a  certain  man  in  Cesarea  called  Cornelius,  a  centurion  of  the 
band  called  the  Italian  band ;  v.  2.  A  devout  man,  and  one  that 
feared  God  with  all  his  house,  which  gave  much  alms  to  the  people, 
and  prayed  to  God  always.  Rev.  xvii.  14.  These  shall  make  war 
with  the  Lamb,  and  the  Lamb  shall  overcome  them :  for  he  is 
Lord  of  lords,  and  King  of  kings ;  and  they  that  are  with  him  are 
called,  and  chosen,  and  faithful,  v.  16.  And  the  ten  horns  which 
thou  sawest  upon  the  beast,  these  shall  hate  the  whore,  and  shall 
make  her  desolate  and  naked,  and  shall  eat  her  flesh,  and  burn  hec 
with  fire. 

III.  e  2  Chron.  xxvi.  18.  And  they  withstood  Uzziah  the  king, 
and  said  unto  him,  It  appertaineth  not  unto  thee,  Uzziah,  to  bum 
incense  unto  the  Lord,  but  to  the  priests  the  sons  of  Aaron,  that  are 
consecrated  to  burn  incense:  go  out  of  the  san&uary,  for  thou  hast 
trespassed,  neither  shall  it  be  for  thine  honour  from  the  Lord  God. 
With  Mat.  xviii.  17.  And  if  he  shall  negledt  to  hear  them,  tell  it 
unto  the  church  :  but  if  he  neglecl:  to  hear  the  church,  let  him  be 
unto  thee  as  an  heathen  man,  and  a  publican.  And  Mat.  xvi.  19. 
And  I  will  give  unto  thee  the  keys  of  the  kingdom  of  heaven  :  and 
whatsoever  thou  shalt  bind  on  earth,  shall  be  bound  in  heaven:  and 
whatsoever  thou  shalt  loose  on  earth,  shall  be  loosed  in  heaven,  r 
Cor.  xii.  28.  And  God  hath  set  some  in  the  church,  first  apostles, 
secondarily  prophets,  thirdly  teachers,  after  that  miracles,  then  gifts 
of  healings,  helps,  governments,  diversities  of  tongues,  v.  29.  Are 
all  apostles  ?  are  all  prophets  ?  are  all  teachers  ?  are  all  workers  of 
miracles?  Eph.  iv.  n.  And  he  gave  some,  apostles;  and  some,  pro- 
phets ;  and  some,  evangelists ;  and  some,  pastors,  and  teachers ;  v. 
12.  For  the  perfecting  of  the  saints,  for  the  work  of  the  ministry,  for 
the  edifying  of  the  body  of  Christ.  1  Cor.  iv.  1.  Let  a  man  so  ac- 
count of  us,  as  of  the  ministers  of  Christ,  and  stewards  of  the  mys- 
teries of  God.  v.  a.  Moreover,  it  is  required  in  stewards,  that  a 
man  be  found  faithful.  Rom.  x.  15.  And  how  shall  they  preach, 
except  they  be  sent?  as  it  is  written,  How  beautiful  are  the  feet  of 
them  that  preach  the  gospel  of  peace,  and  bring  glad  tidings  of  good 
things!  Heb.  v.  4.  And  no  man  taketh  this  honour  unto  himself, 
but  he  that  is  called  of  God,  as  was  Aaron. 

s 


i3$  T'hc  Confession  of  Faith.       Chap.  2  ^# 

serviency  thereto,  administring  government  on 
Christian  principles,  and  ruling  in  the  fear  of 
God,  according  to  the  directions  of  his  word;  as 
those  who  shall  give  an  account  to  the  Lord 
Jesus,  whom  God  hath  appointed  to  be  the  judge 
of  the  world./ 

Hence,  magistrates,  as  such,  in  a  Christian 
country,  are  bound  to  promote  the  Christian  reli- 
gion, as  the  most  valuable  interest  of  their  sub- 
jects, by  all  such  means  as  are  not  inconsistent 
with  civil  rights  ;  and  do  not  imply  an  interfer- 
ence with  the  policy  of  the  church,  which  is  the 
free  and  independent  kingdom  of  the  Redeemer; 
nor  an  assumption  of  dominion  over  conscience.^ 

f  Isa.  xlix.  7.  Thus  saith  the  LordT  the  Redeemer  of  Israel,  and 
his  holy  One,  to  him  whom  man  despiseth,  to  him  whom  the  nation 
abhorreth,  to  a  servant  of  rulers;  kings  shall  see  and  arise;  princes 
also  shall  worship  ;  because-of  the  Lord  that  is  faithful,  and  the  holy 
One  of  Israel,  and  he  shall  choose  thee.  v.  23.  And  kings  shall  be 
thy  nursing-lathers ;  and  their  queens  thy  nursing-motners ;  they 
shall  bow  down  to  thee  with  their  face  toward  the  earth,  and  lick  up 
the  dust  of  thy  feet,  and  thou  snalt  know  that  I  am  the  Lord  :  for 
they  shall  not  be  ashamed  that  wait  for  me.  Rev.  xxi.  24.  And  the 
nations  of  them  which  are  saved  shall  walk  in  the  light  of  it :  and 
the  kings  of  the  earth  do  bring  their  glory  and  honour  into  it.  Col.  iii. 
17.  And  whatsoever  ye  do  in  word  or  deed,  do  all  in  the  name  of 
the  Lord  Jesus,  giving  thanks  to  God  and  the  Father  by  him.  2  Sam. 
xxiii.  3.  The  God  ot  Israel  said,  the  Rock  of  Israel  spake  to  me,  He 
that  ruleth  over  men  must  be  just,  ruling  in  the  fear  of  God.  2  Cor. 
v.  10.  For  we  must  all  appear  before  the  judgment-seat  of  Christ, 
that  every  one  may  receive  the  things  done  in  his  body,  according  to 
that  he  hath  done,  whether  it  be  good  or  bad. 

g  Psal.  ii.  10.  Be  wise  now,  therefore,  O  ye  kings;  be  instruct- 
ed, ye  judges  ot  the  earth,  v.  n.  Serve  the  Lord  with  fear,  and 
rejoice  with  trembling,  v.  12.  Kiss  the  son,  lest  he  be  angry,  and 
ye  perish  from  the  way  when  his  wrath  is  kindled  but  a  little. 
Blessed  are  all  they  that  put  their  trust  in  him.  John  xviii.  36.  Jesus 
answered,  My  kingdom  is  not  of  this  world.  It  my  kingdom  were 
of  this  world,  then  would  my  servants  fight,  that  I  should  not  be  deli- 
vered to  the  Jews:  but  now  is  my  kingdom  not  from  hence,  v.  37. 
To  this  end  was  1  born,  and  for  this  cause  came  I  into  the  world, 
that  I  should  bear  witness  umothe  truth.     Every  one  that  is  of  the 


Chap.  23.       The  Confession  of  Faith.  *   l39 

IV.  It  is  the  duty  of  people  to  pray  for  magis- 
trates,^ to  honour  their  persons,/  to  pay  them 
tribute  and  other  dues,4  to  obey  their  lawful  com- 
mands, and  to  be  subject  to  their  authority  for 
conscience  sake./  Infidelity,  or  difference  in  re- 
ligion, doth  not  make  void  the  magistrate's  just 
and  legal  authority,  nor  free  the  people  from  their 
due  obedience  to  him  ;m  from  which  ecclesiastical 
persons  are  not  exempted;?/  much  less  hath  the 

truth,  heareth  my  voice.  James  iv.  12.  There  is  one  lawgiver, 
who  is  able  to  save  and  to  destroy  :  who  art  thou  that  judgest  ano- 
ther? Rom.  xiv.  4.  Who  art  thou  that  judgest  another  man's  ser- 
vant? to  his  own  master  he  standeth  or  falleth :  yea,  he  shall  be  holden 
up:  for  God  is  able  to  make  him  stand.  (See  also  letters  e  and/-.) 

IV.  //  1  Tim.  ii.  1.  I  exhort,  therefore,  that  first  of  all,  supplica- 
tions, prayers,  intercessions,  and  giving  of  thanks  be  made  for  all 
men:  v.  a.  For  kings,  and  for  all  that  are  in  authority ;  that  we  may 
lead  a  quiet  and  peaceable  life  in  all  godliness  and  honesty. 

i  1  Pet.  ii.  1 7.  Honour  all  men.  Love  the  brotherhood.  Fear 
God.     Honour  the  king. 

k  Rom.  xiii.  6.  For,  for  this  cause  pay  your  tribute  also  :  for  they 
are  God's  ministers,  attending  continually  upon  this  very  thing,  v.  7, 
Render,  therefore,  to  all  their  dues:  tribute  to  whom  tribute  is  due, 
custom  to  whom  custom,  fear  to  whom  fear,  honour  to  whom  ho- 
nour. 

/  Rom.  xiii.  5.  Wherefore  ye  must  needs  be  subject,  not  only  for 
wrath,  but  also  for  conscience  sake.  Tit.  iii.  1.  Put  them  in  mind 
to  be  subject  to  principalities  and  powers,  to  obey  magistrates,  to  be 
ready  to  every  good  work. 

m  1  Pet.  ii.  13.  Submit  yourselves  to  every  ordinance  of  man  for 
the  Lord's  sake:  whether  it  be  to  the  king,  as  supreme:  v.  14.  Or 
unto  governors,  as  unto  them  that  are  sent  by  him  for  the  punishment 
of  evil  doers,  and  for  the  praise  of  them  that  do  well.  v.  1 6.  As  free, 
and  not  using  your  liberty  for  a  cloke  of  maliciousness,  but  as  the  ser- 
vants of  God. 

n  Rom.  xiii.  1.  Let  every  soul  be  subjecl:  unto  the  higher  powers. 
For  there  is  no  power  but  of  God;  the  powers  that  be,  are  ordained 
of  God.  Ads  xxv.  9.  But  Festus,  willing  to  do  the  Jews  a  plea- 
sure, answered  Paul,  and  said,  Wilt  thou  go  up  to  Jerusalem,  and 
there  be  judged  of  these  things  before  me?  v.  10.  Then  said  Paul, 
I  stand  at  Caesar's  judgment-seat,  where  I  ought  to  be  judged;  to 
the  Jews  have  I  done  no  wrong,  as  thou  very  well  knowesr.  v. 
11.  For  if  I  be  an  offender,  or  have  committed  any  thing  worthy 
of  death,  I  refuse  not  to  die:  but  if  there  be  none  of  these  things 


1 40  The  Confession  of  Faith.       Chap.  2  4. 

Pope  any  power  or  jurisdiction  over  them  in  their 
dominions,  or  over  any  of  their  people  ;  and  least 
or  all  to  deprive  them  of  their  dominions  or  lives, 
if  he  shall  judge  them  to  be  heretics ;  or  upon  any 
other  pretence  whatsoever.o 


Chap.  XXIV.     Of  Marriage  and  Divorce. 

JLVlARRIAGE  is  between  one  man  and  one 
woman  :  neither  is  it  lawful  for  any  man  to  have 
more  than  one  wife,  nor  for  any  woman  to  have 
more  than  one  husband  at  the  same  time.^t 

whereof  these  accuse  me,  no  man  may  deliver  me  unto  them.  I 
appeal  unto  Caesar.  2  Peter  ii.  1.  But  there  were  false  prophets 
also  among  the  people,  even  as  there  shall  be  false  teachers  among 
you,  who  privily  shall  bring  in  damnable  heresies,  even  denying 
the  Lord  that  bought  them,  and  bring  upon  themselves  swift  de- 
destru&ion.  v.  10.  But  chiefly  them  that  walk  after  the  flesh,  in  the 
lust  ot  uncleanness,  and  despise  government :  presumptuous  are  they, 
self-willed,  they  are  not  afraid  to  speak,  evil  of  dignities:  v.  11. 
Whereas  angels,  which  are  greater  in  power  and  might,  bring  not 
railing  accusation  against  them  before  the  Lord.  Jude  8.  Like- 
wise also  these  filthy  dreamers  defile  the  flesh,  despise  dominion,  and 
speak  evil  of  dignities,  v.  9.  Yet  Michael,  the  archangel,  when  con- 
tending with  the  devil,  he  disputed  about  the  body  ot  Moses,  durst 
not  bring  against  h.m  a  railing  accusation,  but  said,  The  Lord  rebuke 
thee.  v.  10.  But  these  speak  evil  of  those  things  which  they  know 
not:  but  what  they  know  naturallv,  as  brute-beasts;  in  those  things 
they  corrupt  themselves,  v.  1 1.  Wo  unto  them  ;  for  they  have  gone 
in  the  way  of  Cain,  and  ran  greedily  after  the  error  of  Balaam  for  re- 
ward, and  perished  in  the  gain-saving  of  Core. 

0  2  Thess.  ii.  4.  Who  opposeth  and  exalteth  himself  above  all  that 
5s  called  God,  or  that  is  worshipped;  so  that  he  as  God  sitteth  in  the 
temple  of  God,  shewing  himself  that  he  is  God.  Rev.  xiii.  1  5.  And 
he  had  power  to  give  life  unto  the  image  of  the  beast,  that  the  image 
of  the  beast  should  both  speak,  and  cause  that  as  many  as  would  not 
worship  the  image  of  the  beast  should  be  killed,  v.  16.  And  he 
causeth  all,  both  small  and  great,  rich  and  poor,  free  and  bond,  to 
receive  a  mark  in  their  right-hand,  or  in  their  foreheads :  v.  1 7.  And 
that  no  man  might  buy  or  sell,  save  he  that  had  the  mark,  or  the  name 
of  the  beast,  or  the  number  of  his  name. 

I.  a  Gen.  ii.  24.  Therefore  shall  a  man  leave  his  father  and  his  mo- 


Chap.  2  4.       tfhe  Confession  of  Faith.  141 

II.  Marriage  was  ordained  for  the  mutual  help 
of  husband  and  wife  \b  for  the  increase  of  man- 
kind with  a  legitimate  issue,  and  of  the  church 
with  an  holy  seed  \c  and  for  preventing  of  un- 
cleanness.^/ 

III.  It  is  lawful  for  all  sorts  of  people  to  marry, 
who  are  able  with  judgment  to  give  their  con- 
sent :^  yet  it  is  the  duty  of  Christians  to  marry 
pnly  in  the  Lordf    And,  therefore,  such  as  pro- 

ther,  and  shall  cleave  unto  his  wife :  and  they  shall  be  one  flesh.  Mat. 
x\x.  5.  And  said,  For  this  cause  shall  a  man  leave  father  and  mother, 
and  shall  cleave  to  his  wife  :  and  they  twain  shall  be  one  flesh,  v.  6. 
Wherefore  thev  are  no  more  twain,  but  one  flesh.  What,  therefore, 
God  hath  joined  together,  let  not  man  put  asunder.  Prov.  ii.  17. 
Which  forsaketh  the  guide  of  her  youth,  and  forgetteth  the  covenant 
of  her  God. 

II.  b  Gen.  ii.  18.  And  the  Lord  God  said,  It  is  not  good  that  the 
man  should  be  alone :  I  will  make  him  an  help  meet  for  him. 

c  Mai.  ii.  15.  And  did  not  he  make  one?  yet  had  he  the  residue  of 
the  Spirit :  and  wherefore  one  ?  that  he  might  seek  a  godly  seed ; 
therefore  take  heed  to  your  spirit,  and  let  none  deal  treacherously 
against  the  wife  of  his  youth. 

d  1  Cor.  vii.  a.  Nevertheless,  to  avoid  fornication,  let  every  mart 
have  his  own  wife,  and  let  every  woman  have  her  own  husband. 
v.  9.  But  if  they  cannot  contain,  let  them  marry :  for  it  is  better  to 
marry  than  to  burn. 

III.  e  Heb.  xiii.  4.  Marriage  is  honourable  in  all,  and  the  bed  un- 
defined :  but  whoremongers  and  adulterers  God  will  judge.  1  Tim. 
iv.  3.  Forbidding  to  marry,  and  commanding  to  abstain  from  meats, 
which  God  hath  created  to  be  received  with  thanksgiving  of  them 
which  believe  and  know  the  truth.  1  Cor.  vii.  36.  But  it  any  man 
think  that  he  behaveth  himself  uncomely  towards  his  virgin,  if  she 
pass  the  flower  of  her  age,  and  need  so  require,  let  him  do  what  he 
will,  he  sinneth  not:  let  them  marry,  v.  37.  Nevertheless,  he  that 
standeth  stedfast  in  his  heart,  having  no  necessity,  but  hath  power 
over  his  own  will,  and  hath  so  decreed  in  his  heart,  that  he  will  keep 
his  virgin,  doth  well.  v.  38.  So  then,  he  that  giveth  her  in  mar- 
riage, doth  well :  but  he  that  giveth  her  not  in  marriage,  doth  better. 
Gen.  xxiv.  57.  And  they  said,  We  will  call  the  damsel,  and  enquire 
at  her  mouth,  v.  58.  And  they  called  Rebekah,  and  said  unto  her, 
\Vilt  thou  go  with  the  man?  and  she  said,  I  will  go. 

ff"  1  Cor.  vii.  39.  The  wife  is  bound  by  the  law  as  long  as  her  hus- 
band liveth:  but  if  her  husband  be  dead,  she  is  at  liberty  to  be  mar- 
ried to  whom  she  will;  only  in  the  Lord. 


14-  *fhe  Confession  of  Faith.        Chap.  24. 

fess  the  true  reformed  religion,  should  not  marry 
with  infidels,  papists,  or  other  idolaters;  neither 
should  such  as  are  godly  be  unequally  yoked,  by 
marrying  with  such  as  are  notoriously  wicked  iu 
their  life,  or  maintain  damnable  heresies.^ 

IV.  Marriage  ought  not  to  be  within  the  de- 
grees of  consanguinity  or  affinity  forbidden  in  the 
word  \h  nor  can  such  incestuous  marriages  ever 


g  Gen.  xxxiv.  14.  And  they  said  unto  them,  We  cannot  do  this 
thing,  to  give  our  sister  to  one  that  is  uncircumcised :  for  that  were  a 
reproach  unto  us.  Exod.  xxxiv.  16.  And  thou  take  of  their  daugh- 
ters unto  thy  sons,  and  their  daughters  go  a  whoring  after  their  gods, 
and  make  thy  sons  go  a  whoring  after  their  gods.  Deut.  vii.  3.  Nei- 
ther shalt  thou  make  marriages  with  them;  thy  daughter  thou  shalt 
not  give  unto  his  son,  nor  his  daughter  shalt  thou  take  unto  thy  son. 
v.  4.  For  they  will  turn  away  thy  son  from  following  me,  that  they 
may  serve  other  gods:  so  will  the  anger  of  the  Lord  be  kindled 
against  you,  and  destroy  thee  suddenly.  1  Kings  xi.  4.  For  it  came 
to  pass  when  Solomon  was  old,  that  his  wives  turned  away  his  heart 
after  other  gods :  and  his  heart  was  not  perfect  with  the  Lord  his  God, 
as  was  the  heart  of  David  his  father.  Neh.  xiii.  2$.  And  I  contended 
with  them,  and  cursed  them, and  smote  certain  of  them,  and  plucked 
off  their  hair,  and  made  them  swear  by  God,  saying,  Ye  shall  not 
give  your  daughters  unto  their  son5,  nor  take  their  daughters  unto 
your  sons,  or  lor  yourselves,  v.  26.  Did  not  Solomon,  king  of  Is- 
rael, sin  by  these  things?  yet  among  many  nations  was  there  no  king 
like  him,  who  was  beloved  of  his  God,  and  God  made  him  king 
overall  Israel:  nevertheless,  even  him  did  outlandish  women  cause 
to  sin.  v.  27.  Shall  we  then  hearken  unto  you  to  do  all  this  great 
evil,  to  transgress  against  our  God  in  marrying  strange  wives?  Mai. 
ii.  11.  Judah  hath  dealt  treacherously,  and  an  abomination  is  com- 
mitted in  Israel,  and  in  Jerusalem :  for  Judah  hath  profaned  the 
holiness  of  the  Lord  which  he  loved,  and  hath  married  the  daughter 
of  a  strange  god.  v.  12.  The  Lord  will  cut  off  the  man  that  doth 
this:  the  master  and  the  scholar  out  of  the  tabernacles  of  Jacob,  and 
him  that  offereth  an  offering  unto  the  Lord  of  hosts.  2  Cor.  vi.  14. 
Be  ye  not  unequally  yoked  together  with  unbelievers:  for  what  fel- 
lowship hath  righteousness  with  unrighteousness  ?  and  what  commu- 
nion hath  light  with  darkness? 

IV.  //  (Lev.  xviiith  chapter.)  1  Cor.  v.  1.  It  is  reported  commonly 
that  there  is  lornication  among  you,  and  such  fornication  as  is  not 
so  much  as  named  among  the  Gentiles,  that  one  should  have  his 
father's  wife.  Amos  ii.  7.  That  pant  after  the  dust  of  the  earth  on 
the  head  ol  the  poor,  and  turn  aside  the  way  of  the  meek;  and  a  man 


Chap.  2 4.       rfhe  Confession  of  Faith.  143 

be  made  lawful  by  any  law  of  man,  or  consent  of 
parties,  so  as  those  persons  may  live  together  as 
man  and  wife./  The  man  may  not  marry  any  of 
his  wife's  kindred  nearer  in  blood  than  he  may  of 
his  own,  nor  the  woman  of  her  husband's  kindred 
nearer  in  blood  than  of  her  own.i 

V.  Adultery,  or  fornication,  committed  after  a 
contract,  being  detected  before  marriage,  giveth 
just  occasion  to  the  innocent  party  to  dissolve  that 
contract./  In  the  case  of  adultery  after  marriage, 
it  is  lawful  for  the  innocent  party  to  sue  out  a  di- 


and  his  father  will  go  in  unto  the  same  maid,  to  profane  my  holy 
name. 

i  Mark  vi.  18.  For  John  had  said  unto  Herod,  It  is  not  lawful 
for  thee  to  have  thy  brother's  wife.  Lev.xviii.  24.  Defile  not  ye  your- 
selves in  any  of  these  things  :  for  in  all  these  the  nations  are  defiled 
which  I  cast  out  before  you.  v.  25.  And  the  land  is  defiled  :  there- 
fore I  do  visit  the  iniquity  thereof  upon  it,  and  the  land  itself  vomit- 
eth  out  her  inhabitants,  v.  26.  Ye  shall  therefore  keep  my  statutes 
and  my  judgments,  and  shall  not  commit  any  of  these  abominations  ; 
neither  any  of  your  own  nation,  nor  any  stranger  that  sojourneth 
among  you:  v.  27.  (For  all  these  abominations  have  the  men  of  the 
land  done,  which  were  before  you,  and  the  land  is  defiled.)  v.  28. 
That  the  land  spue  not  you  out  also,  when  ye  defile  it,  as  it  spued  out 
the  nations  that  were  before  you. 

k  Lev.  xx.  19.  And  thou  shalt  not  uncover  the  nakedness  of  thy 
mother's  sister,  nor  of  thy  father's  sister:  for  he  uncovereth  his  near 
kin :  they  shall  bear  their  iniquity,  v.  20.  And  if  a  man  shall  lie 
with  his  uncle's  wife,  he  hath  uncovered  his  uncle's  nakedness  :  they 
shall  bear  their  sin,  they  shall  die  childless,  v.  21.  And  if  a  man 
shall  take  his  brother's  wife,  it  is  an  unclean  thing:  he  hath  unco- 
vered his  brother's  nakedness,  they  shall  be  childless. 

V.  /  Mat.  i.  18.  Now  the  birth  of  Jesus  Christ  was  on  this  wise  : 
When  as  his  mother  Mary  was  espoused  to  Joseph,  before  they  came 
together,  she  was  found  with  child  of  the  Holy  Ghost,  v.  10. 
Then  Joseph,  her  husband,  being  a  just  man,  and  not  willing  to 
make  her  a  public  example,  was  minded  to  put  her  away  privily. 
v.  20.  But  while  he  thought  on  these  things,  behold,  the  angel  of  the 
Lord  appeared  unto  him  in  a  dream,  saying,  Joseph,  thou  son  of 
David,  fear  not  to  take  unto  thee  Mary  thy  wife ;  for  that  which  is 
conceived  in  her,  is  of  the  Holy  Ghost. 


144-  *be  Confession  of  Faith.       Chap.  24* 

vorce,m  and,  after  the  divorce,  to  marry  another, 
as  if  the  offending  party  were  dead.« 

VI.  Although  the  corruption  of  man  be  such  as 
is  apt  to  study  arguments,  unduly  to  put  asunder 
those  whom  God  hath  joined  together  in  mar- 
riage ;  yet  nothing  but  adultery,  or  such  wilful 
desertion  as  can  no  way  be  remedied  by  the  church 
or  civil  magistrate,  is  cause  sufficient  of  dissolving: 
the  bond  of  marriage  ;o  wherein  a  public  and  or- 
derly course  of  proceeding  is  to  be  observed,  and 
the  persons  concerned  in  it  not  left  to  their  own 
wills  and  discretion  in  their  own  case.^> 

m  Mat.  v.  31.  It  hath  been  said,  Whosoever  shall  put  away  his 
wife,  let  him  give  her  a  writing  of  divorcement,  v.  32.  But  I  say 
unto  you,  that  whosoever  shall  put  away  his  wife,  saving  for  the  cause 
of  fornication,  causeth  her  to  commit  adultery:  and  whosoever  shall 
marry  her  that  is  divorced,  committeth  adultery. 

n  Mat.  xix.  9.  And  I  say  unto  you,  Whosoever  shall  put  away 
his  wife,  except  it  be  for  rornication,  and  shall  marry  another,  com- 
mitteth adultery:  and  whosoever  marrieth  her  which  is  put  away, 
doth  commit  adultery.  Rom.  vii.  2.  For  the  woman  which  hath  an 
husband,  is  bound  by  the  law  to  her  husband  so  long  as  he  liveth: 
but  if  the  husband  be  dead,  she  is  loosed  from  the  law  of  her  hus- 
band, v.  3.  So  then,  if,  while  her  husband  liveth,  she  be  married  to 
another  man,  she  shall  be  called  an  adulteress:  but  if  her  husband  be 
dead,  she  is  free  from  that  law ;  so  that  she  is  no  adulteress,  though 
she  be  married  to  another  man. 

VI.  0  Mat.  xix.  8.  He  saith  unto  them,  Moses,  because  of  the 
hardness  of  your  hearts,  suffered  you  to  put  away  your  wives:  but 
from  the  beginning  it  was  not  so.  v.  9.  (See  letter  n.)  1  Cor.  vii. 
1$.  But  if  the  unbelieving  depart,  let  him  depart.  A  brother  or  a 
sister  is  not  under  bondage  in  such  cases:  but  God  hath  called  us  to 
peace.  Mat.  xix.  6.  Wherefore  they  are  no  more  twain,  but  one 
rleih.  What,  therefore,  God  hath  joined  together,  let  not  man  put 
asunder. 

Ji  Deut.  xxiv.  1.  When  a  man  hath  taken  a  wife  and  married  her, 
and  ir  come  to  pass  that  she  find  no  favour  in  his  eyes,  because  he 
hath  found  some  uncleanness  in  her,  then  let  him  write  her  a  bill  of 
divorcement,  and  gi\re  it  in  her  hand,  and  send  her  out  of  his  house. 
v.  2.  And  when  she  is  departed  out  of  his  house,  she  may  go  and 
be  another  nun's  wife.  v.  3.  And  if  the  latter  husband  hate  her, 
and  write  her  a  bill  of  divorcement,  and  giveth  it  in  her  hand,  and 


{     H5     ) 

Chap.  XXV.     Of  the  Church. 

-L  HE  Catholic  or  universal  church,  which  is 
invisible,  consists  of  the  whole  number  of  the 
elecl,  that  have  been,  are,  or  shall  be  gathered 
into  one,  under  Christ  the  head  thereof ;  and  is 
the  spouse,  the  body,  the  fulness  of  him  that  filleth 
all  in  alh<2 

II.  The  visible  church,  which  is  also  Catholic, 
or  universal  under  the  gospel  (not  confined  to 
one  nation,  as  before  under  the  law),  consists  of 
all  those  throughout  the  world  that  profess  the 
true    religion,^    together    with   their   children; 

sendeth  her  out  of  his  house;  or  if  the  latter  husband  die,  which 
took  her  to  be  his  wife;  v.  4.  Her  former  husband  which  sent  her 
away  may  not  take  her  again  to  be  his  wife,  after  that  she  is  defiled: 
for  that  is  abomination  before  the  Lord,  and  thou  shalt  not  cause 
the  land  to  sin,  which  the  Lord  thy  God  giveth  thee  for  an  inherit- 
ance. 

I.  a  Eph.  i.  10.  That  in  the  dispensation  of  the  fulness  of  times, 
he  might  gather  together  in  one  all  things  in  Christ,  both  which  are 
in  heaven,  and  which  are  on  earth,  even  in  him.  v.  22.  And  hath 
put  all  things  under  his  feet,  and  gave  him  to  be  the  head  over  all 
things  to  the  church,  v.  23.  Which  is  his  body,  the  fulness  of  him 
that  filleth  all  in  all.  Eph.  v.  23.  For  the  husband  is  the  head  of  the 
wife,  even  as  Christ  is  the  head  of  the  church:  and  he  is  the  Saviour 
of  the  body.  v.  27.  That  he  might  present  it  to  himself  a  glorious 
church,  not  having  spot  or  wrinkle,  or  any  such  thing  ;  but  that  it 
should  be  holy,  and  without  blemish,  v.  32.  This  is  a  great  mystery: 
but  I  speak  concerning  Christ  and  the  church.  Col.  i.  18.  And  he 
is  the  head  of  the  body,  the  church:  who  is  the  beginning,  the  first- 
born from  the  dead;  that  in  all  things  he  might  have  the  pre-emi- 
nence. 

II.  b  1  Cor.  i.  2.  Unto  the  church  of  God  which  is  at  Corinth, 
to  them  that  are  sanctified  in  Christ  Jesus,  called  to  be  saints,  with  all 
that  in  every  place  call  upon  the  name  of  Jesus  Christ  our  Lord,  both 
theirs  and  ours.  1  Cor.  xii.  12.  For  as  the  body  is  one,  and  hath 
many  members,  and  all  the  members  of  that  one  body,  being  many, 
are  one  body  :  so  also  is  Christ,  v.  1 3.  For  by  one  Spirit  are  we  all 
baptized  into  one  body,  whether  we  be  Jews  or  Gentiles,  whether 

T 


146  The  Confession  of  Faith.       Chap,  ijt 

c  and  is  the  kingdom  of  the  Lord  Jesus  Christ,^/ 
the  house  and  family  of  God,?  out  of  which  there 
is  no  ordinary  possibility  of  salvation/' 

we  be  bond  or  free  ;  and  have  been  all  made  to  drink  into  one  Spirit. 
Psal.  ii.  8.  Ask  of  me,  and  I  shall  give  thee  the  heathen  for  thine  in- 
heritance, and  the  uttermost  parts  of  the  earth  for  thy  possession. 
Rev.  vii.  9.  After  this  I  beheld,  and  lo,  a  great  multitude,  which  no 
man  could  number,  of  all  nations,  and  kindreds,  and  people,  and 
tongues,  stood  before  the  throne,  and  before  the  Lamb,  clothed  with 
white  robes,  and  palms  in  their  hands.  Rom.  xv.  9.  And  that  the 
Gentiles  might  glorify  God  for  his  mercy ;  as  it  is  written,  For  this 
cause  I  will  confess  to  thee  among  the  Gentiles,  and  sing  unto  thy 
name.  v.  10.  And  again  he  saith,  Rejoice,  ye  Gentiles,  with  his 
people,  v.  11.  And  again,  Praise  the  Lord,  all  ye  Gentiles,  and  laud 
him  all  ye  people,  v.  12.  And  again,  Esaias  saith,  There  shall  be  a 
root  of  Jesse,  and  he  that  shall  rise  to  reign  over  the  Gentiles,  in  him' 
shall  the  Gentiles  trust. 

c  1  Cor.  vii,  14.  For  the  unbelieving  husband  is  sanftified  by  the 
wife,  and  the  unbelieving  wife  is  sanctified  by  the  husband :  else 
were  yonr  children  unclean;  but  now  are  they  holy.  Acts  ii.  39. 
For  the  promise  is  unto  you,  and  to  your  children,  and  to  all  that 
are  afar  off,  even  as  many  as  the  Lord  our  God  shall  call.  Ezek. 
xvi.  co.  Moreover,  thou  hast  taken  thy  sons  and  thy  daughters, 
whom  thou  hast  born  unto  me,  and  these  hast  thou  sacrificed  unto 
them  to  be  devoured  1  is  this  of  thy  whoredoms  a  small  matter,  v.  2 1. 
That  thou  hast  slain  my  children,  and  delivered  them  to  cause  them 
to  pass  through  the  fire  for  them?  Rom.  xi.  16.  For  if  the  first  fruit 
be  holy,  the  lump  is  also  holy;  and  if  the  root  be  holy,  so  are  the 
branches.  Gen.  iii.  1  £.  And  I  will  put  enmity  between  thee  and  the 
woman,  and  between  thy  seed  and  her  seed :  it  shall  bruise  thy  head, 
and  thou  shalt  bruise  his  heel.  Gen.  xvii.  7.  And  I  will  establish  my 
covenant  between  me  and  thee,  and  thy  seed  after  thee  in  their  ge- 
nerations, tor  an  everlasting  covenant  ^  to  be  a  God  unto  thee,  and 
to  thy  seed  after  thee. 

d  Mat.  xiii.  47.  Again,  the  kingdom  of  heaven  is  like  unto  a  net 
that  was  cast  into  the  sea,  and  gathered  of  every  kind.  Isa.  ix.  7. 
Of  the  increase  of  his  government  and  peace  there  shall  be  no  end, 
upon  the  throne  of  David  and  upon  his  kingdom,  to  order  it,  and 
to  establish  it  with  judgment,  and  with  justice,  from  henceforth  evert 
ior  ever :  the  zeal  of  the  Lord  ot  hosts  will  perform  this. 

e  Eph.  ii.  19.  Now,  therefore,  ye  are  no  more  strangers  and  fo- 
reigners, but  lcllow  citizens  with  the  saints,  and  of  the  household  of 
God.  Eph.  iii.  15.  Of  whom  the  whole  family  of  heaven  and  earth 
is  named. 

f  Afts  ii.  47.  Praising  God,  and  having  favour  with  all  the  peo- 
ple. And  the  Lord  added  to  the  church  daily  such  as  should  be 
saved. 


Chap,  25.       'fhe  Confession  of  Faith.  147 

III.  Unto  this  Catholic  visible  church  Christ 
hath  given  the  ministry,  oracles,  and  ordinances 
of  God,  for  the  gathering  and  perfecting  of  the 
saints  in  this  life,  to  the  end  of  the  world ;  and 
doth,  by  his  own  presence  and  Spirit,  according 
to  his  promise,  make  them  effectual  thereunto.g 

IV.  This  Catholic  church  hath  been  sometimes 
more,  sometimes  less  visible.^  And  particular 
churches,  which  are  members  thereof,  are  more 
or  less  pure,  according  as  the  doctrine  of  the 
gospel  is  taught  and  embraced,  ordinances  admi- 
nistred,  and  public  worship  performed  more  or 
less  purely  in  them./ 

III.  g  1  Cor.  xii.  28.  And  God  hath  set  some  in  the  church,  first 
apostles,  secondarily  prophets,  thirdly  teachers,  after  that  miracles, 
then  gifts  of  healings,  helps,  governments,  diversities  of  tongues. 
Eph.  iv.  n.  And  he  gave  some,  apostles;  and  some,  prophets;  and 
some,  evangelists;  and  some,  pastors  and  teachers;  v.  is.  For  the 
perfecting  of  the  saints,  for  the  work  of  the  ministry,  for  the  edify- 
ing of  the  body  of  Christ;  v.  13.  Till  we  all  come  in  the  unity  of 
the  faith,  and  of  the  knowledge  of  the  Son  of  God,  unto  a  perfect 
man,  unto  the  measure  of  the  stature  of  the  fulness  of  Christ.  Mat. 
xxviii.  19.  Go  ye  therefore  and  teach  all  nations,  baptizing  them  in 
the  name  of  the  Father,  and  of  the  Son,  and  of  the  Holy  Ghost :  v. 
20.  Teaching  them  to  observe  all  things  whatsoever  I  have  com- 
manded you  :  and  lo,  I  am  with  you  alway  even  unto  the  end  of 
the  world.  Amen.  Isa.  lix.  si.  As  for  me,  this  is  my  covenant 
with  them,  saith  the  Lord.  My  Spirit  that  is  upon  thee,  and  my 
words  which  I  have  put  in  thy  mouth,  shall  not  depart  out  of  thy 
mouth,  nor  out  of  the  mouth  of  thy  seed,  nor  out  of  the  mouth  of 
thy  seed's  seed,  saith  the  Lord,  from  henceforth  and  for  ever. 

IV.  //  Rom.  xi.  3.  Lord,  they  have  killed  thy  prophets,  and  digged 
down  thine  altars;  and  I  am  left  alone,  and  they  seek  my  life.  v.  1, 
But  what  saith  the  answer  of  God  unto  him  ?  I  have  reserved  to  my- 
self seven  thousand  men,  who  have  not  bowed  the  knee  to  the  image 
of  Baal.  Rev.  xii.  6.  And  the  woman  fled  into  the  wilderness,  where 
she  hath  a  place  prepared  of  God,  that  they  should  feed  her  there  a 
thousand  two  hundred  and  threescore  days.  v.  14.  And  to  the  wo^ 
man  were  given  two  wings  of  a  great  eagle,  that  she  might  fly  into 
the  wilderness,  into  her  place:  where  she  is  nourished  for  a  time  and 
times,  and  half  a  time,  from  the  face  of  the  serpent. 

i  (Rev.  ii  and  iii.  chapters  throughout.)  1  Cor.  v.  6.  Your  glo- 
rifying is  not  good ;  know  ye  not  that  a  little  leaven  leaveneth  the 


14-3  ^fhe  Confession  of  Faith.       Chap.  2  r. 

V.  The  purest  churches  under  heaven  are  sub- 
ject both  to  mixture  and  error  ;i  and  some  have 
so  degenerated,  as  to  become  no  churches  of 
Christ,  but  synagogues  of  Satan./  Nevertheless, 
there  shall  be  always  a  church  on  earth,  to  wor- 
ship God  according  to  his  will.w 

VI.  There  is  no  other  head  of  the  church 
but  the  Lord  Jesus  Christ;/*  nor  can  the  Pope 

whole  lumpr  v.  7.  Purge  out  therefore  the  old  leaven,  that  ye  may 
be  a  new  lump  as  ye  are  unleavened.     For  even  Christ  our  passover 
1  irked  for  us. 

V.  k  1  Cor.  xiii.  12.  For  now  we  see  through  a  glass,  darkly; 
but  then  face  to  face:  now  I  know  in  part;  but  then  shall  I  know 
even  as  also  I  am  known.  (Rev.  ii.  and  iii.  chapters.)  Mat.  xiii. 
24 — 30.  Another  parable  put  he  forth  unto  them,  saying,  The 
kingdom  of  heaven  is  likened  unto  a  man  which  sowed  good  seed 
in  his  field;  but  while  men  slept,  his  enemy  came  and  sowed  tares 
among  the  wneat,  and  went  his  way.  But  when  the  blade  was  sprung 
up,  and  brought  forth  fruit,  then  appeared  the  tares  also,  &c.  v.  47. 
Again,  the  kingdom  of  heaven  is  like  unto  a  net  that  was  cast  into 
the  hea,  and  gathered  of  every  ki«d. 

/  Rev.  xviii.  2.  And  he  cried  mightily  with  a  strong  voice,  say- 
ing, Babylon  the  great  is  fallen,  is  fallen,  and  is  become  the  habita- 
tion of  devils,  ana  the  hold  of  every  fou!  spirit,  and  a  cage  of  every 
unclean  and  iiatefu'  bird.  Rom.  xi.  1 8.  Boast  not  against  the  branches; 
but  if  thou  boa;*,  thou  bearer  not  the  root,  but  the  root  thee.  v.  19. 
Thou  wilt  say  men,  The  branches  were  broken  off,  that  1  might  be 
graffed  in.  v.  20.  Well,  because  of  unbelief  they  were  broken  off, 
and  thou  standest  by  faith.  Be  not  high-minded,  but  fear:  v.  21.  For 
if  God  spared  not  the  natural  branches,  take  heed  lest  he  also  spare 
not  thee.  v.  22.  Behold,  therefore,  the  goodness  and  severity  of  God : 
on  them  which  fell,  severity;  but  towards  thee,  goodness,  if  thou 
continue  in  his  goodness:  otherwise  thou  also  shalt  be  cut  off. 

m  Mat.  xvi.  18.  And  I  say  also  unto  thee,  That  thou  art  Peter, 
and  upon  this  rock  I  will  build  my  church:  and  the  gates  of  hell 
i  not  prevail  against  it.  Psal.  lxxii.  17.  His  name  shall  endure 
for  ever:  his  name  shall  be  continued  as  long  as  the  sun:  and  men 
shall  be  blessed  in  him:  all  nations  shall  call  him  blessed.  Psal.  cii. 
cS.  The  children  of  thy  servants  shall  continue,  and  their  seed  shall 
be  established  before  thee.     Mat.  xxviii.  19,  20.    (See  in  letter £.) 

VI.  n  Col.  i.  18.  And  he  is  the  head  of  the  body,  the  church: 
>  is  the  beginning,  the  first  born  from  the  dead  ;  that  in  all  things 

he  might  have  the  pre-eminence.  Eph.  i.  22.  And  hath  put  all  things 
under  his  feet,  and  give  him  to  be  the  head  over  all  things  to  the 
church. 


Chap.  26.        The  Confession  of  Faith.  1 49 

of  Rome  in  any  sense  be  head  thereof,  but  is  that 
antichrist,  that  man  of  sin,  and  sen  of  perdition, 
that  exalteth  himself  in  the  church  against  Christ, 
and  all  that  is  called  God.o 


Chap.  XXVI.     Of  Corn-muni  on  of  Saints. 

ALL  saints  that  are  united  to  Jesus  Christ 
their  head,  by  his  Spirit,  and  by  faith,  have  fel- 
lowship with  him  in  his  graces,  sufferings,  death, 
resurre&ion,  and  glory.*     And  being  united  to 

0  Mat.  xxiii.  8.  But  be  not  ye  called  Rabbi:  for  one  is  your  Mas- 
ter, even  Christ,  and  all  ye  are  brethren,  v.  9.  And  call  no  man 
your  father  upon  earth:  for  one  is  your  Father,  which  is  in  heaven. 
v.  10.  Neither  be  ye  called  masters:  for  one  is  your  Master,  even 
Christ,  a  Thess.  ii.  3.  Let  no  man  deceive  you  by  any  means  :  for 
that  day  shall  not  come  except  there  come  a  falling  away  first,  and 
that  man  of  sin  be  revealed,  the  son  of  perdition;  v.  4.  Who  op - 
poseth  and  exalteth  himself  above  all  that  is  called  God,  or  that  is 
woishipped  ;  so  that  he,  as  God,  sitteth  in  the  temple  of  God,  shew- 
incr  himself  that  he  is  God.  v.  8.  And  then  shall  that  wicked  be  re- 
vealed, whom  the  Lord  shall  consume  with  the  spirit  of  his  mouth, 
and  shall  destroy  with  the  brightness  of  his  coming:  v.  9.  Even  him 
whose  coming  is' after  the  working  of  Satan,  with  all  power,  and  signs, 
and  lying  wonders.  Rev.  xiii.  6.  And  he  opened  his  mouth  in  blas- 
phemy against  God,  to  blaspheme  his  name,  and  his  tabernacle,  and 
them  that  dwell  in  heaven. 

I.  a  1  John  i.  3.  That  which  we  have  seen  and  heard,  declare  we 
unto  you,  that  ve  also  may  have  fellowship  with  us:  and  truly  our 
fellowship  is  with  the  Father,  and  wkh  his  Son  Jesus  Christ.  Eph. 
iii.  16.  That  he  would  grant  you,  according  to  the  riches  of  his  glory, 
to  be  strengthened  with  might  by  his  Spirit  in  the  inner  man ;  v. 
17.  That  Christ  may  dwell  in  your  hearts  by  faith  ;  that  ye,  being 
rooted  and  grounded'  in  love,  v.  18.  May  be  able  to  comprehend 
with  all  saints,  what  is  the  breadth,  and  length,  and  depth,  and  height ; 
v.  19.  And  to  know  the  love  of  Christ,  which  passeth  knowledge, 
that  ye  might  be  filled  with  all  the  fulness  of  God.  John  i.  16.  And 
of  his  fulness  have  all  we  received,  and  grace  for  grace.  Eph.  ii.  5. 
Even  when  we  were  dead  in  sins  hath  quickened  us  together  with 
Christ,  (by  grace  ye  are  saved)  v.  6.  And  hath  raised  us  up  together, 
and  made  us  sit  together  in  heavenly  places  in  Christ  Jesus.    Phil.  iii. 


1 50  *fhe  Confession  of  Faith.       Chap.  26. 

one  another  in  love,  they  have  communion  in 
each  other's  gifts  and  graces/  and  are  obliged 
to  the  performance  of  such  duties,  public  and 
private,  as  do  conduce  to  their  mutual  good,  both 
in  the  inward  and  outward  man. c 

II.  Saints  by  profession,  are  bound  to  main- 

10.  That  I  may  know  him,  and  the  power  of  his  resurrection,  and 
the  fellowship  of  his  sufferings,  being  made  conformable  unto  his 
death.  Rom.  vi.  c,.  For  if  we  have  been  planted  together  in  the  like- 
ness of  his  death,  we  shall  be  also  in  the  likeness  of  his  resurrection  ; 
v.  6.  Knowing  this,  that  our  old  man  is  crucified  with  him,  that 
the  body  of  sin  might  be  destroyed,  that  henceforth  we  should  not 
serve  sin.  z  Tim.  ii.  is.  If  we  suffer,  we  shall  also  reign  with  him  ; 
if  we  deny  him,  he  also  will  deny  us. 

b  Eph.  iv.  15.  But  speaking  the  truth  in  love,  may  grow  up  into 
him  in  all  things,  which  is  the  head,  even  Christ;  v.  16.  From 
whom  the  whole  body  fitly  joined  together  and  compacted  by  that 
which  every  joint  supplied"),  according  to  the  effectual  working  in  the 
measure  of  every  part,  maketh  increase  of  the  body  unto  the  edify- 
ing of  itself  in  love.  I  Cor.  xii.  7.  But  the  manifestation  of  the  Spi- 
rit is  given  to  every  man  to  profit  with  all.  1  Cor.  iii.  21.  There- 
fore let  no  man  glory  in  men  :  for  all  things  are  yours  ;  v.  23.  Whe- 
ther Paul,  or  Apollos,  or  Cephas,  or  the  world,  or  lite,  or  death,  or 
things  present,  or  things  to  come:  all  arc  yours;  v.  23.  And  ye  are 
Christ's,  and  Christ  is  God's.  Col.  ii.  19.  And  not  holding  the 
head,  from  which  all  the  body,  by  joints  and  bands  having  nourish- 
ment ministered  and  knit  together,  incrcaseth  with  the  increase  of 
God. 

c  1  Thess.  v.  11.  Wherefore  comfort  yourselves  together,  and 
edify  one  another,  even  as  also  ye  do.  v.  14.  Now,  we  exhort  you, 
brethren,  warn  them  that  are  unruly ;  comfort  the  feeble-minded ;  sup- 
port the  weak;  be  patient  toward  all  men.  Rom.  i.  1 1.  For  1  long 
to  see  you,  that  I  may  impart  unto  you  some  spiritual  gift,  to  the 
end  vou  may  be  established;  v.  12.  That  is,  that  1  may  be  com- 
forted together  with  you,  by  the  mutual  faith  both  of  you  and  me. 
v.  14.  I  am  debtor  both  to  the  Greeks  and  to  the  Barbarians,  both 
to  the  wise  and  to  the  unwise.  1  John  iii.  16.  Hereby  perceive  we 
the  love  of  God,  because  he  laid  down  his  life  for  us:  and  we  ought 
to  lay  down  our  lives  for  the  brethren,  v.  17.  But  whoso  hath  this 
world's  good,  and  secth  his  brother  have  need,  and  shutteth  up  his 
bowels  of  compassion  from  him,  how  dwelleth  the  love  oi  God  in 
him?  v.  18.  My  little  children,  let  us  not  love  in  word,  neither  in 
tongue,  but  in  deed,  and  in  truth.  Gal.  vi.  10.  As  we  have  therefore 
opportunity,  let  us  do  good  unto  all  men,  especially  unto  them  who 
are  of  the  household  of  faith. 


Chap.  2  6 .        tfhe  Confession  of  Faith.  1 5 1 

tain  an  holy  fellowship  and  communion  in  the 
worship  of  God,  and  in  performing  such  other 
spiritual  services  as  tend  to  their  mutual  edifica- 
tion \d  as  also  in  relieving  each  other  in  outward 
things,  according  to  their  several  abilities  and 
necessities.  Which  communion,  as  God  offereth 
opportunity,  is  to  be  extended  unto  all  those  who 
in  every  place  call  upon  the  name  of  the  Lord 

Jesus.? 

III.  This  communion  which  the  saints  have 
with  Christ,  doth  not  make  them  in  any  wise 
partakers  of  the  substance  of  his  Godhead,  or  to 
be  equal  with  Christ  in  any  respect:  either  of 
which  to  affirm,  is  impious  and  blasphemous/ 

II.  d  Heb.  x.  24.  And  let  us  consider  one  another,  to  provoke 
unto  love,  and  to  good  works:  v.  25.  Not  forsaking  the  assembling 
of  ourselves  together,  as  the  manner  of  some  is ;  but  exhorting  one 
another :  and  so  much  the  more,  as  ye  see  the  day  approaching. 
Ads  ii.  42.  And  they  continued  stedfastly  in  the  apostles'  do&rine 
and  fellowship,  and  in  breaking  of  bread,  and  in  prayers,  v.  46.  And 
they  continuing  daily  with  one  accord  in  the  temple,  and  breaking 
bread  from  house  to  house,  did  eat  their  meat  with  gladness  and 
singleness  of  heart.  Isa.  ii.  3.  And  many  people  shall  go  and  say, 
Come  ye,  and  let  us  go  up  to  the  mountain  of  the  Lord,  to  the  house 
of  the  God  of  Jacob,  and  he  will  teach  us  of  his  ways,  and  we  will 
walk  in  his  paths ;  for  out  of  Zion  shall  go  forth  the  law,  and  the 
word  of  the  Lord  from  Jerusalem.  1  Cor.  xi.  20.  When  ye  come 
together  therefore  into  one  place,  this  is  not  to  eat  the  Lord's  supper. 

e  Acts  ii.  44.  And  all  that  believed  were  together,  and  had  all 
things  common,  v.  45.  And  sold  their  possessions  and  goods,  and 
parted  them  to  all  men,  as  every  man  had  need.  1  John  hi.  17. 
(See  in  letter  c.)  (2  Cor.  viii.  and  ix.  chapters.)  A6b  xi.  29.  Then 
the  disciples,  every  man  according  to  his  ability,  determined  to  send 
relief  unto  the  brethren  which  dwelt  in  Judea.  v.  30.  Wtiich  also 
they  did,  and  sent  it  to  the  elders  by  the  hands  of  Barnabas  and  Saul. 

III.  /  Col.  i.  18.  And  he  is  the  head  of  the  body,  the  church: 
who  is  the  beginning,  the  first  born  from  the  dead;  that  in  all  things 
he  might  have  the  pre-eminence,  v.  19.  For  it  pleased  the  Father, 
that  in  him  should  all  fulness  dwell.  1  Cor.  viii.  6.  But  to  us  there 
is  but  one  God  the  Father,  of  whom  are  all  things,  and  we  in  him; 
and  one  Lord  Jesus  Christ,  by  whom  are  all  things,  and  we  by  him. 
Isa.xlii.  8.  I  am  the  Lord,  that  is  my  name,  and  my  glory  will  I  not 


15-  *T he  Confession  of  Faith.       Chap.  27. 

Nor  doth  their  communion  one  with  another, 
as  saints,  take  away  or  infringe  the  title  or  pro- 
perty which  each  man  hath  in  his  goods  and  pos- 
sessions.^ 


Chap.  XXVII.     Of  the  Sacraments. 

OACRAMENTS  are  holy  signs  and  seals  of  the 
covenant  of  grace, a  immediately  instituted  by 
God,£  to  represent  Christ  and  his  benefits;    and 

give  to  another,  neither  my  praise  to  graven  images,  i  Tim.  vi. 
15.  Which  in  his  times  he  shall  show,  who  is  the  blessed  and  only 
Potentate,  the  King  of  kings,  and  Lord  of  lords,  v.  16.  Who  only 
hath  immortality,  dwelling  in  the  light  which  no  man  can  approach 
unto;  whom  no  man  hath  seen,  nor  can  see;  to  whom  be  honour  and 
power  everlasting.  Amen.  Psal.  xlv.  7.  Thou  lovest  righteousness, 
and  hatest  wickedness:  therefore  God,  thy  God,  hath  anointed 
thee  with  the  oil  oi  gladness  above  thy  fellows.  With  Heb.  i.  8.  But 
unto;  the  Son  he  saith,  Thy  throne,  O  God,  is  for  ever  and  ever:  a 
sceptre  of  righteousness  is  the  sceptre  of  thy  kingdom :  v.  9.  Thou 
hast  loved  righteousness,  and  hated  iniquity:  therefore  God,  even  thy 
God,  hath  anointed  thee  with  the  oil  of  gladness  above  thy  fellows. 

g  Exod.  xx.  15.  Thou  shalt  not  steal.  Eph.  iv.  28.  Let  him  that 
stole,  steal  no  more:  but  rather  let  him  labour,  working  with  his 
hands  the  thing  which  is  good,  that  he  may  have  to  give  to  him  that 
needeth.  Ac"ls  v.  4.  Whiles  it  remained,  was  it  not  thine  own?  and 
after  it  was  sold,  was  it  not  in  thine  own  power?  why  hast  thou  con- 
ceived this  thing  in  thine  heart  ?  thou  hast  not  lied  unto  men,  but 
Unto  God. 

I.  a  Rom.  iv.  11.  And  he  received  the  sign  of  circumcision,  a 
seal  of  the  righteousness  of  the  faith  which  he  had  yet  being  uncir- 
cumcised  :  that  he  might  be  the  father  of  all  them  that  believe,  though 
they  be  not  circumcised  ;  that  righteousness  might  be  imputed  unto 
them  also.  Gen.  xvii.  7.  And  I  will  establish  my  covenant  between 
me  and  thee,  and  thy  seed  alter  thee  in  their  generations,  for  an  ever- 
lasting covenant;  to  be  a  God  unto  thee,  and  to  thy  seed  after  thee. 
v.  10.   (See  letter/*  in  the  following  page.) 

b  Mat.  xxviii.  19.  Go  ye  therefore  and  teach  all  nations,  baptizing 
them  in  the  name  of  the  Father,  and  of  the  Son,  and  of  the  Holy 
Ghost.  1  Cor.  xi.  23.  For  1  have  received  ol  the  Lord  that  which 
also  I  delivered  unto  you,  That  the  Lord  Jesus,  the  same  night  in 
which  he  was  betrayed,  took  bread. 


Chap.  2  7 .       rfhe  Confession  of  Faith.  153 

to  confirm  our  interest  in  him;<:  as  also  to  put 
a  visible  difference  between  those  that  belong 
unto  the  church,  and  the  rest  of  the  world;  d  and 
solemnly  to  engage  them  to  the  service  of  God  in 
Christ,  according  to  his  word.? 

II.  There  is  in  every  sacrament  a  spiritual 
relation,  or  sacramental  union,  between  the  sign 
and  the  thing  signified ;  whence  it  comes  to  pass, 
that  the  names  and  effects  of  the  one  are  attri* 
buted  to  the  othen/~ 

c  1  Cor.  x.  16.  The  cup  of  blessing  which  we  bless,  is  it  not 
the  communion  of  the  blood  of  Christ?  The  bread  which  we  break, 
is  it  not  the  communion  of  the  body  of  Christ?  i  Cor.  xi.  25.. 
After  the  same  manner  also  he  took  the  cup,  when  he  had  supped, 
saying,  This  cup  is  the  New  Testament  in  my  blood  :  this  do  ye,  as 
oft  as  ye  drink  it,  in  remembrance  of  me.  v.  26.  For  as  often  as  ye 
eat  this  bread,  and  chink  this  cup,  ye  do  shew  the  Lord's  death  till 
he  come.  Gal.  iii.  27.  For  as  many  of  you  as  have  been  baptized  into 
Christ,  have  put  on  Christ.  Gal.  iii.  17.  And  this  I  say,  That 
the  covenant  that  was  confirmed  before  of  God  in  Christ,  the  law, 
which  was  four  hundred  and  thirty  years  after,  cannot  disannul,  that 
it  should  make  the  promise  of  none  effe£t. 

d  Rom.  xv.  8.  Now,  I  say,  that  Jesus  Christ  was  a  minister  of 
the  circumcision  for  the  truth  of  God,  to  confirm  the  promises  made 
unto  the  fathers.  Exod.  xii.  48.  And  when  a  stranger  shall  sojourn 
with  thee,  and  will  keep  the  passover  to  the  Lord,  let  all  his  males  be 
circumcised,  and  then  let  him  come  near  and  keep  it;  and  he  shall 
be  as  one  that  is  born  in  the  land :  for  no  uncircumcised  person  shall 
eat  thereof.  Gen.  xxxiv.  14.  And  they  said  unto  them,  We  cannot 
do  this  thing,  to  give  our  sister  to  one  that  is  uncircumcised :  for 
that  were  a  reproach  unto  us. 

e  Rom.  vi.  3.  Know  ye  not  that  so  many  of  us  as  were  baptized 
into  Jesus  Christ  were  baptized  into  his  death?  v.  4.  Therefore  we 
are  buried  with  him  by  baptism  into  death;  that  like  as  Christ  was 
raised  up  from  the  dead  by  the  glory  of  the  Father,  even  so  we  also 
should  walk  in  newness  of  life.  1  Cor.  x.  16.  (See  in  letter  c)  v.  21. 
Ye  cannot  drink  the  cup  of  the  Lord  and  the  cup  of  devils:  ye  can- 
not be  partakers  of  the  Lord's  table  and  of  the  table  of  devils. 

II.  f  Gen.  xvii.  10.  This  is  my  covenant,  which  ye  shall  keep 
between  me  and  you,  and  thy  seed  after  thee:  Every  man-child 
among  you  shall  be  circumcised.  Mat.  xxvi.  27.  And  he  took  the 
cup,  and  gave  thanks,  and  gave  it  to  them,  saying,  Drink  ye  all  of 
it;  v.  28.  For  this  is  my  blood  of  the  New  Testament,  which  is  shed 
for  many  for  the  remission  of  sins.     Tit.  iii.  t.  Not  bv  works  of 

u 


154  *Ihe  Confession  of  Faith.       Chap.  27. 

III.  The  grace  which  is  exhibited  in  or  by  th^ 
sacraments,  rightly  used,  is  not  conferred  by  any 
power  in  them ;  neither  doth  the  efficacy  of  a 
sacrament  depend  upon  the  piety  or  intention  of 
him  that  doth  administer  it,g  but  upon  the  work 
of  the  Spirit,/6  and  the  word  of  institution ;  which 
contains,  together  with  a  precept  authorising  the 
use  thereof,  a  promise  of  benefit  to  worthy  re- 
ceivers./ 

IV.  There  be  only  two  sacraments  ordained 
by  Christ  our  Lord  in  the  gospel,  that  is  to  say, 
Baptism  and  the  Supper  of  the  Lord :  neither  of 
which  may  be  dispensed  by  any  but  by  a  minis- 
ter of  the  word,  lawfully  ordained./^ 

righteousness  which  we  have  doner  but  according  to  his  mercy  he 
saved  us  by  the  washing  of  regeneration,  and  renewing  of  the  Holy 
Ghost. 

III.  g  Rom.  ii.  28.  For  he  is  not  a  Jew,  which  is  one  outwardly; 
neither  is  that  circumcision  which  is  outward  in  the  flesh:  v.  29, 
But  he  is  a  Jew,  which  is  one  inwardly ;  and  circumcision  is  that  of 
the  heart,  in  the  spirit,  and  not  in  the  letter,  whose  praise  is  not  of 
men,  but  of  God.  i  Peter  iii.  21.  The  like  figure  w hereunto,  even 
baptism,  doth  also  now  save  us,  (not  the  putting  away  of  the  filth 
of  the  flesh,  but  the  answer  of  a  good  conscience  towards  God)  by 
the  resurrection  of  Jesus  Christ. 

/;  Mat.  iii.  11.  1  indeed  baptize  you  with  water  unto  repentance  ; 
but  he  that  cometh  after  me  is  mightier  than  I,  whose  shoes  I  am 
not  worthy  to  bear:  he  shall  baptize  you  with  the  Holy  Ghost,  and 
with  fire.  1  Cor.  xii.  13.  For  by  one  Spirit  are  we  all  baptized  into 
one  body,  whether  we  be  Jews  or  Gentiles,  whether  we  be  bond  or 
free  ;  and  have  been  all  made  to  drink  into  one  Spirit. 

;'  Mat.  xxvi.  27,  28.  (See  in  letter,/.)  Mat.  xxviii.  19.  (See  in 
letter  6.)  v.  20.  Teaching  them  to  observe  all  things  whatsoever  I 
have  commanded  you :  and  lo,  I  am  with  you  ahvay,  even  unto  the 
end  of  the  world.     Amen. 

IV.  k  Mat.  xxviii.  19.  Go  ye  therefore  and  teach  all  nations,  bap- 
tizing them  intthe  name  ol  the  Father,  and  of  the  Son,  and  of  the 
Holv  Giiost.  1  Cor.  xi.  20.  When  ye  come  together  therefore  into 
one  place,  this  is  not  to  eat  the  Lord's  supper,  v.  23.  For  I  have 
received  of  the  Lord,  that  which  also  F delivered  unto  you,  That  the 
Lord  Jesus,  the  same  night  in   which  he  was  betrayed,  took  bread. 

■i  Cor.  iv.  i.  Let  a  man  so  account  of  us,  as  of  the  ministers  of 


Chap.  2  8 .       7%e  Confession  of  Faith.  155 

V.  The  sacraments  of  the  Old  Testament,  in 
regard  of  the  spiritual  things  thereby  signified 
and  exhibited,  were,  for  substance,  the  same  with 
those  of  the  New./ 


Chap.  XXVIII.     Of  Baptism. 

JDAPTISM  is  a  sacrament  of  the  New  Testa- 
ment, ordained  by  Jesus  Christ,^  not  only  for 
the  solemn  admission  of  the  party  baptized  into 
the  visible  church,^  but  also  to  be  unto  him  a  sign 
and  seal  of  the  covenant  of  grace,*:  of  his  ingraft- 
ing into  Christ,;/  of  regeneration,?  of  remission 

Christ,  and  stewards  of  the  mysteries  of  God.  Heb.  v.  4.  And  no 
man  taketh  mis  honour  unto  himself,  but  he  that  is  .called  of  God, 
as  was  Aaron. 

V.  /  1  Cor.  x.  1.  Moreover,  brethren,  I  would  not  that  ye  should 
be  ignorant,  how  that  all  our  fathers  were  under  the  cloud,  and  all 
passed  through  the  sea ;  v.  2.  And  were  all  baptized  unto  Moses  in 
the  cloud  and  in  the  sea;  v.  3.  And  did  all  eat  the  same  spiritual 
meat;  v.  4.  And  did  all  drink  the  same  spiritual  drink;  (for  they 
drank  of  that  spiritual  Rock  that  followed  them:  and  that  Rock  was 
Christ.) 

I.  a  Mat.  xxviii.  19.  (See  letter  £  of  the  foregoing  chapter.) 

b  1  Cor.  xii.  13.  For  by  one  Spirit  are  we  all  baptized  into  one 
body,  whether  we  be  Jews  or  Gentiles,  whether  we  be  bond  or  freej 
and  have  been  all  made  to  drink  into  one  Spirit. 

c  Rom,  iv.  11.  And  he  received  the  sign  of  circumcision,  a  seal 
of  the  righteousness  of  the  faith  which  he  had  yet  being  uncircum- 
cised;  that  he  might  be  the  father  of  all  them  that  believe,  though 
they  be  not  circumcised  ;  that  righteousness  might  be  imputed  unto 
them  also.  With  Col.  ii.  11.  In  whom  also  ye  are  circumcised  with 
the  circumcision  made  without  hands,  in  putting  off  the  body  of  the 
sins  of  the  flesh,  by  the  circumcision  of  Christ:  v.  12.  Buried  with 
him  in  baptism,  wherein  also  ye  are  risen  with  him,  through  the 
faith  of  the  operation  of  God,  who  hath  raised  him  from  the  dead. 

d  Gal.  iii.  27.  For  as  many  of  you  as  have  been  baptized  into 
Christ,  have  put  on  Christ.  Rom.  vi.  5.  For  if  we  have  been 
planted  together  in  the  likeness  of  his  death,  we  shall  be  also  in  the 
likeness  of  his  resurreftion. 

e  Tit,  iii.  5.   Not  by  works  of  righteousness  which  we  have 


156  T*he  Confession  of  Faith.       Chap.  28, 

of  sins,/*  and  of  his  giving  up  unto  God  through 
Jesus  Christ,  to  walk  in  newness  of  life  :g  Which 
sacrament  is,  by  Christ's  own  appointment,  to 
be  continued  in  his  church  until  the  end  of  the 
worlds 

II.  The  outward  element  to  be  used  in  this 
sacrament  is  water,  wherewith  the  party  is  to  be 
baptized  in  the  name  of  the  Father,  and  of  the 
Son,  and  of  the  Holy  Ghost,  by  a  minister  of  the 
gospel,  lawfully  called  thereunto./ 

III.  Dipping  of  the  person  into  the  water  is 
not  necessary ;  but  baptism  is  rightly  administered 
by  pouring  or  sprinkling  water  upon  the  person. k 

done,  but  according  to  his  mercy  he  saved  us  by  the  washing  of 
regeneration,  and  renewing  of  the  Holy  Ghost. 

/  Mark  i.  4.  John  did  baptize  in  the  wilderness,  and  preach  the 
baptism  of  repentance,  for  the  remission  of  sins. 

g  Rom.  vi.  3.  Know  ye  not,  that  so  many  of  us  as  were  bap- 
tized into  Jesus  Christ,  were  baptized  into  his  death?  v.  4  There- 
fore we  are  buried  with  him  by  baptism  into  death:  that  like  as 
Christ  was  raised  up  from  the  dead  by  the  glory  of  the  Father,  even 
so  we  also  should  walk  in  newness  of  life. 

h  Mat.  xxviii.  19.  (See  in  letter  k  foregoing  chapter.)  v.  20. 
Teaching  them  to  observe  all  things  whatsoever  I  have  commanded 
you :  and  lo,  I  am  with  you  alway,  even  unto  the  end  of  the  world. 
.Amen. 

II.  /'  Mat.  iii.  ir.  I  indeed  baptize  you  with  water  unto  repent- 
ance; but  he  that  cometh  after  me  is  mightier  than  I,  whose  shoes 
3  am  not  worthy  to  bear:  he  shall  baptize  you  with  the  Holy  Ghost, 
and  with  fire.  John  i.  33.  And  I  knew  him  not:  but  he  that  sent 
r.ie  to  baptize  with  water,  the  same  said  unto  me,  Upon  whom 
thou  shalt  see  the  Spirit  descending  and  remaining  on  him,  the  same 
5s  he  which  baptizeth  with  the  Holy  Ghost.  Mat.  xxviii.  19.  (See 
in  letter  k  foregoing  chapter.)  v.  20.   (See  in  letter  h.) 

III.  k  Heb.  ix.  10,  19,  20,  21,  22.  Acls  ii.  41.  Then  they  that 
gladly  received  his  word,  were  baptized  :  and  the  same  day  there  were 
added  unto  them  about  three  thousand  souls.  Acfs  xvi.  33.  And  he 
took  them  the  same  hour  of  the  night,  and  washed  their  stripes;  and 
was  baptized,  he  and  all  his,  straightway.  Mark  vii.  4.  And  when 
they  come  from  the  market,  except  they  wash,  they  eat  not.  And 
many  other  things  there  be,  which  they  have  received  to  hold,  as  the 
washing  of  cups  and  pots,  brazen  vessels,  and  of  tables. 


Chap.  2  8 ,       The  Confession  of  Faith.  157 

IV.  Not  only  those  that  do  actually  profess  faith 
in  and  obedience  unto  Christ,/  but  also  the  infants 
of  one  or  both  believing  parents  are  to  be  bap- 
tized.;/* 

IV.  /  Mark  xvi.  15.  And  he  said  unto  them,  Go  ye  into  all  the 
world',  and  preach  ye  the  gospel  to  every  creature,  v.  16.  He  that 
believeth  and  is  baptized,  shall  be  saved;  but  he  that  beheveth  not, 
shall  be  damned.  A£ts  viii.  37.  And  Philip  said,  If  thou  behevest 
with  all  thine  heart,  thou  mayest.  And  he  answered  and  said,  I  be- 
lieve that  Jesus  Christ  is  the  Son  of  God.  v.  38.  And  he  commanded 
the  chariot  to  stand  still :  and  they  went  down  both  into  the  water, 
both  Philip  and  the  eunuch ;  and  he  baptized  him. 

m  Gen.  xvii.  7.  And  I  will  establish  my  covenant  between  me 
and  thee,  and  thy  seed  after  thee  in  their  generations,  for  an  ever- 
lasting covenant ;  to  be  a  God  unto  thee,  and  to  thy  seed  after  thee. 
v.  9.  And  God  said  unto  Abraham,  Thou  shalt  keep  my  covenant 
therefore,  thou,  and  thy  seed  after  thee  in  their  generations.     With 
Gal.  iii.  9.  So  then  they  which  be  o\  faith,  are  blessed  with  faithful 
Abraham,     v.  14.  That  the  blessing  of  Abraham  might  come  on 
the  Gentiles  through  Jesus  Christ;  that  we  might  receive  the  pro- 
mise of  the  Spirit  through  faith.     And  Col.  ii.  1  r .  In  whom  also  ye 
are  circumcised  with  the  circumcision  made  without  hands,  in  put- 
tina  off  the  body  of  the  sins  of  the  flesh,  by  the  circumcision  of 
Christ:  v.  12.  Buried  with  him  in  baptism,  wherein  also  you  are 
risen  with  him  through  the  faith  of  the  operation  of  God,  who  hath 
raised  him  from  the  dead.     And  Afts  ii.  38.  Then  Peter  said  unto 
them,  Repent,  and  be  baptized  every  one  of  you  in  the  name  of  Jesus 
Christ,  for  the  remission  of  sins,  and  ye  shall  receive  the  gift  of  the 
Holy  Ghost,  v.  39.  For  the  promise  is  unto  you,  and  to  your  child- 
ren, and  to  all  that  are  afar  off,  even  as  many  as  the  Lord  our  God 
shall  call.     And  Rom.  iv.  11.  And  he  received  the  sign  of  circum- 
cision, a  seal  of  the  righteousness  of  the  faith  which  he  had  yet  being 
uncircumcised ;  that  he  might  be  the  father  of  all  them  that  believe, 
though  they  be  not  circumcised;  that  righteousness  might  be  im- 
puted unto'them  also :  v.  12.  And  the  father  of  circumcision  to  them 
who  are  not  of  the  circumcision  only,  but  also  walk  in  the  steps  of 
that  faith  of  our  father  Abraham,  which  he  had  being  yet  uncircum- 
cised.    1  Cor.  vii.  14.  For  the  unbelieving  husband  is  san&iiied  by 
the  wife,  and  the  unbelieving  wife  is  sanftified  by  the  husband  ;  else 
were  your  children  unclean  ;  but  now  are  they  holy.     Mat.  xxvni. 
19.  Go  ye  therefore  and  teach  all  nations,  baptizing  them  in  the 
name  of  the  Father,  and  of  the  Son,  and  of  the  Holy  Ghost.    Mark 
x.  1 3.  And  they  brought  young  children  to  him,  that  he  should  touch 
them;  and  his  disciples  rebuked  those  that  brought  them.     v.  14. 
But  when  Jesus  saw  it,  he  was  much  displeased,  and  said  unto  them, 
Suffer  the  little  children  to  come  unto  me.  and  forbid  them  not:  for 


158  f/je  Confession  of  Faith,       Chap.  2  8 , 

V.  Although  it  be  a  great  sin  to  contemn  or 
neglect  this  ordinance,;?  yet  grace  and  salvation 
are  not  so  inseparably  annexed  unto  it,  as  that  no 
person  can  be  regenerated  or  saved  without  it,o  or 
that  all  that  are  baptized  are  undoubtedly  rege- 
nerated./) 

VI.  The  efficacy  of  baptism  is  not  tied  to  that 
moment  of  time  wherein  it  is  administered;^- 
yet  notwithstanding,  by  the  right  use  of  this  or- 
dinance, the  grace  promised  is  not  only  offered, 
but  really  exhibited  and  conferred  by  the  Holy 
Ghost,  to  such  (whether  of  age  or  infants)  as 
that  grace  belongeth  unto,  according  to  the  coun- 
sel of  God's  own  will,  in  his  appointed  time.r 

of  such  is  the  kingdom  of  God.  v.  15.  Verily  I  say  unto  you,  Who- 
soever shall  not  receive  the  kingdom  of  God  as  a  little  child,  he  shall 
not  enter  therein,  v.  16.  And  he  took  them  up  in  his  arms,  put  his 
hands  upon  them,  and  blessed  them.  Luke  xviii.  15.  And  they 
brought  unto  him  also  infants,  that  he  would  touch  them  ;  but  when 
his  disciples  saw  it,  they  rebuked  them. 

V.  n  Luke  vii.  30.  But  the  Pharisees  and  lawyers  rejected  the 
counsel  of  God  against  themselves,  being  not  baptized  of  him.  With 
Exod.  lv.  24.  And  it  came  to  pass  by  the  way  in  the  inn,  that  the 
Lord  met  him,  and  sought  to  kill  him.  v.  25.  Then  Zipporah 
took  a  sharp  stone,  and  cut  off  the  foreskin  of  her  son,  and  cast  it  at 
his  feet,  and  said,  Surely  a  bloody  husband  art  thou  to  me.  v.  26. 
So  he  let  him  go  :  then  she  said,  A  bloody  husband  thou  art,  because 
of  the  circumcision. 

0  Rom.  iv.  n.  (See  in  letter  m.)  Afts  x.  2,  4,  22,  31,  45,  47. 

ji  A£fs  viii.  13.  Then  Simon  himself  believed  also:  and  when  he 
was  baptized,  he  continued  with  Philip,  and  wondered,  beholding  the 
miracles  and  signs  which  were  done.  v.  23.  For  I  perceive  that 
thou  art  in  the  gall  of  bitterness,  and  in  the  bond  of  iniquity. 

VI.  q  John  iii.  5.  Jesus  answered,  Verily,  verily,  I  say  unto  thee, 
Except  a  man  be  born  of  water,  and  of  the  Spirit,  he  cannot  enter 
into  the  kingdom  of  God.  v.  8.  The  wind  blovveth  where  it  listeth, 
and  thou  hearest  the  sound  thereof,  but  canst  not  tell  whence  it  Com- 
eth, and  whither  it  goeth:  so  is  every  one  that  is  born  of  the  Spirit. 

r  Gal.  iii.  27.  For  as  many  of  you  as  have  been  baptized  into 
Christ,  have  put  on  Christ.  Tit.  iii.  5.  Not  by  works  of  righteous- 
ness which  we  have  done,  but  according  to  his  mercy  he  saved  115 
by  the  washing  of  regeneration,  and  renewing  of  the  Holy  Ghost. 


Chap.  29.       The  Confession  of  Faith.  159 

VII.  The  sacrament  of  baptism  is  but  once  to 
be  administered  to  any  person.! 


Chap.  XXIX.     Of  the  Lord's  Supper. 

V-/UR  Lord  Jesus,  in  the  night  wherein  he  was 
betrayed,  instituted  the  sacrament  of  his  body  and 
blood,  called  the  Lord's  Supper,  to  be  observed 
in  his  church  unto  the  end  of  the  world,  for  the 
perpetual  remembrance  of  the  sacrifice  of  himself 
in  his  death,  the  sealing  all  benefits  thereof  unto 
true  believers,  their  spiritual  nourishment  and 
growth  in  him,  their  farther  engagement  in  and 
to  all  duties  which  they  owe  unto  him,  and  to  be 
a  bond  and  pledge  of  their  communion  with  him, 
and  with  each  other,  as  members  of  his  mystical 
body.fl 

Eph.  v.  25.  Husbands,  love  your  wives,  even  as  Christ  also  loved 
the  church,  and  gave  himself  for  it:  v.  26.  That  he  might  san&ify 
and  cleanse  it  with  the  washing  of  water  by  the  word.  Acts  ii.  38. 
Then  Peter  said  unto  them,  Repent,  and  be  baptized  every  one  of 
you  in  the  name  of  Jesus  Christ,  for  the  remission  of  sins,  and  ye 
shall  receive  the  gift  of  the  Holy  Ghost,  v.  41.  Then  they  that 
gladly  received  his  word,  were  baptized  ;  and  the  same  day  there 
were  added  unto  them  above  three  thousand  souls. 

VII.  s  Tit.  iii.  5.  (See  in  letter  r.) 

I.  a  1  Cor.  xi.  23.  For  I  have  received  of  the  Lord,  that  which 
also  I  delivered  unto  you,  that  the  Lord  Jesus,  the  same  night  in  which 
he  was  betrayed,  took  bread :  v.  24.  And  when  he  had  given  thanks, 
he  brake  it,  and  said,  Take,  eat;  this  is  my  body,  which  is  broken 
for  you:  this  do  in  remembrance  of  me.  v.  25.  Alter  the  same 
manner  also  he  took  the  cup,  when  he  had  supped,  saying,  This  cup 
is  the  new  testament  in  my  blood :  this  do  ye,  as  oft  as  ye  drink  it,  in 
remembrance  of  me.  v.  26.  For  as  often  as  ye  eat  this  bread,  and 
drink  this  cup,  ye  do  shew  the  Lord's  death  till  he  come.  1  Cor.  x. 
16.  The  cup  of' blessing  which  we  bless,  is  it  not  the  communion  of 
the  blood  of  Christ?  The  bread  which  we  break,  is  it  not  the  com- 
munion of  the  body  of  Christ?  v.  1 7.  For  we  being  many,  are  one 
bread,  and  one  body;  for  we  are  all  partakers  of  that  one  bread,    v. 


160  'The  Confession  of  Faith.       Chap.  29, 

II.  In  this  sacrament,  Christ  is  not  offered  up 
co  his  Father,  nor  any  real  sacrifice  made  at  all, 
for  remission  of  sins  of  the  quick  or  dead  \b  but 
only  a  commemoration  of  that  one  offering  up  of 
himself,  by  himself,  upon  the  cross,  once  for  all ; 
and  a  spiritual  oblation  of  all  possible  praise  unto 
God  for  the  same  \c  so  that  the  Popish  sacrifice 
of  the  mass,  as  they  call  it,  is  most  abominably 
injurious  to  Christ's  one  only  sacrifice,  the  alone 
propitiation  for  all  the  sins  of  the  electa 

III.  The  Lord  Jesus  hath,  in  this  ordinance, 
appointed  his  ministers  to  declare  his  word  of  in* 

21.  Ye  cannot  drink  the  cup  of  the  Lord,  and  the  cup  of  devils:  ye 
cannot  be  partakers  of  the  Lord's  table,  and  of  the  table  of  devils. 
1  Cor.  xii.  13.  For  by  one  Spirit  are  we  all  baptized  into  one  body, 
whether  we  be  Jews  or  Gentiles,  whether  we  be  bond  or  free:  and 
have  been  all  made  to  drink  into  one  Spirit. 

II.  b  Heb.  ix.  22.  And  almost  all  things  are  by  the  law  purged 
with  blood;  and  without  shedding  of  blood  is  no  remission,  v.  25. 
Nor  yet  that  he  should  offer  himself  often,  as  the  high  priest  entcreth 
into  the  holy  place,  every  year  with  blood  of  others :  v.  26.  (For  then 
must  he  often  have  suffered  since  the  foundation  of  the  world)  but 
now  once  in  the  end  of  the  world  hath  he  appeared  to  put  away  sin 
by  the  sacrifice  of  himself,  v.  28.  So  Christ  was  once  offered  to  bear 
the  sins  of  many ;  and  unto  them  that  look  lor  him  shah  he  appear  the 
second  time,  without  sin,  unto  salvation. 

c  1  Cor.  xi.  24,  25,  26.  (See  them  in  letter  a.)  Mat.  xxvi.  16. 
And  as  they  were  eating,  Jesus  took  bread,  and  blessed  it,  and  brake 
it,  and  gave  it  to  the  disciples,  and  said,  Take,  eat;  this  is  my 
body.  v.  27.  And  he  took  the  cup,  and  gave  thanks,  and  gave  it  to 
them,  saying,  Drink  ye  all  of  it. 

d  Heb.  vii.  23.  And  they  truly  were  many  priests,  because  they 
were  not  suffered  to  continue  by  reason  of  death :  v.  24.  But  this 
man,  because  he  continueth  ever,  hath  an  unchangeable  priesthood, 
v.  2;.  Who  needetb  not  daily,  as  those  high  priests,  to  offer  up  sa- 
crifice, first  for  his  own  sins, and  then  for  the  people's:  for  this  he  did 
oikc,  when  he  offered  up  himself.  Heb.  x.  n.  And  every  priest 
standeth  daily  ministring  and  offering  oftentimes  the  same  sacrifices 
which  can  never  take  away  sins:  v.  12.  But  this  man,  after  he  had 
offered  one  sacrifice  for  sins,  for  ever  s^t  down  on  the  rk;ht  hand  of 
(.'od.  v.  14.  For  by  one  offering  he  hath  perfected  for  ever  them 
that  are  sanoVified.  v.  18.  Now,  where  remission  of  these  is,  there 
is  no  more  offering  for  sin. 


Chap.  29.  tfhe  Confession  of  Faith.  161 

stitution  to  the  people,  to  pray,  and  bless  the  ele- 
ments of  bread  and  wine,  and  thereby  to  set  them 
apart  from  a  common  to  an  holy  use ;  and  to  take^ 
and  break  the  bread,  to  take  the  cup,  and  (they 
communicating  also  themselves)  to  give  both  to 
the  communicants  ;£  but  to  none  who  are  not 
then  present  in  the  congregation^ 

IV.  Private  masses,  or  receiving  this  sacra- 
ment by  a  Priest,  or  any  other  alone,g  as  like- 
wise the  denial  of  the  cup  to  the  people, h  wor- 
shipping the  elements,  the  lifting  them  up  or 
carrying  them  about  for  adoration,  and  the  re- 
serving them  for  any  pretended  religious  use,  are 
all  contrary  to  the  nature  of  this  sacrament,  and 
to  the  institution  of  Christ./ 

III.  e  Mat.  xxvi.  26,  27.  (See  in  letter  c.)  v.  28.  For  this  is  my 
blood  of  the  New  Testament,  which  is  shed  for  many  for  the  re- 
mission of  sins.  And  Mark  xiv.  22.  And  as  they  did  eat,  Jesus 
took  bread,  and  blessed,  and  brake  it,  and  gave  to  them,  and  said, 
Take,  eat:  this  is  my  body.  v.  23.  And  he  took  the  cup,  and  wheil 
he  had  given  thanks,  he  gave  it  to  them :  and  they  all  drank  of  it. 
v.  24.  And  he  said  unto  them,  This  is  my  blood  of  the  New  Tes- 
tament, which  is  shed  for  many.  And  Luke  xxii.  19.  And  he  took 
bread,  and  gave  thanks,  and  brake  it,  and  gave  unto  them,  saying, 
This  is  my  body  which  is  given  for  you :  this  do  in  remembrance 
of  me.  v.  20.  Likewise  also  the  cup  after  supper,  saying,  This  cup 
is  the  New  Testament  in  my  blood,  which  13  shed  for  you.  With  1 
Cor.  xi.  23 — 26.  (See  all  in  letters.) 

f  A6ls  xx.  7.  And  upon  the  first  day  of  the  week,  when  the  disci- 
ples came  together  to  break  bread,  Paul  preached  unto  them,  ready 
to  depart  on  the  morrow,  and  continued  his  speech  until  midnight. 
1  Cor.  xi.  20.  When  ye  come  together  therefore  into  one  place,  this 
is  not  to  eat  the  Lord's  supper. 

IV.  g  1  Cor.  x.  6.  Now  these  things  were  our  examples,  to  the 
intent  we  should  not  lust  after  evil  things,  as  they  also  lusted. 

h  Mark  xiv.  23.  (See  in  letter  c.)  1  Cor.  xi.  25,  26.  (See  in  letters.) 
v.  27.  Wherefore,  whosoever  shall  eat  this  bread,  and  drink  this  cup 
of  the  Lord  unworthily,  shall  be  guilty  of  the  body  and  blood  of  the 
Lord.  v.  28.  But  let  a  man  examine  himself,  and  so  let  him  eat  of 
that  bread,  and  drink  of  that  cup.  v.  29.  For  he  that  eateth  and 
diinketh  unworthily,  eateth  and  drinketh  damnation  to  himself,  not 
discerning  the  Lord's  body. 

i  Mat.  xv.  9.  But  in  vain  they  do  worship  me3  teaching  for  doc- 
trines the  commandments  of  men. 

X 


262  'The  Confession  of  Faith.       Chap.  2'£# 

V.  The  outward  elements  in  this  sacrament, 
duly  set  apart  to  the  uses  ordained  by  Christ, 
have  such  relation  to  him  crucified,  as  that  truly, 
yet  sacramentally  only,  they  are  sometimes  called 
by  the  name  of  the  things  they  represent;  to  wit, 
the  body  and  blood  of  Christ  \k  albeit,  in  sub- 
stance and  nature,  they  still  remain  truly  and 
only  bread  and  wine,  as  they  were  before./ 

VI.  That  doctrine  which  maintains  a  change 
of  the  substance  of  bread  and  wine  into  the  sub- 
stance of  Christ's  body  and  blood  (commonly 
called  Transubstantiation,)  by  consecration  of  a 
priest,  or  by  any  other  way,  is  repugnant  not  to 
scripture  alone,  but  even  to  common  sense  and 
reason ;  overthroweth  the  nature  of  the  sacra- 
ment ,  and  hath  been,  and  is  the  cause  of  mani- 
fold superstitions,  yea,  of  gross  idolatries.^ 

V.  k  Mat.  xxvi.  26.  And  as  they  were  eating,  Jesus  took  bread, 
and  blessed  it,  and  brake  it,  and  gave  it  to  the  disciples,  and  said, 
Take,  eat ;  this  is  my  body.  v.  27.  And  he  took  the  cup,  and  gave 
thanks,  and  gave  it  to  them,  saying,  Drink  ye  all  of  it:  v.  28.  For 
this  is  my  blood  of  the  New  Testament,  which  is  shed  for  many  for 
the  remission  of  sins. 

/  1  Cor.  xi.  26.  For  as  often  as  ye  eat  this  bread,  and  drink  this 
cup,  ye  do  shew  the  Lord's  death  till  he  come.  v.  27.  Wherefore, 
whosoever  shall  eat  this  bread,  and  drink  this  cup  of  the  Lord  un- 
worthily, shall  be  guilty  of  the  body  and  blood  of  the  Lord.  v.  28. 
But  let  a  man  examine  himself,  and  so  let  him  eat  of  that  bread,, 
and  drink  of  that  cup.  Mat.  xxvi.  29.  But  I  say  unto  you,  I  will 
not  drink  henceforth  of  this  fruit  of  the  vine,  until  that  day  when  I 
drink  it  new  with  you  in  my  Father's  kingdom. 

VI.  m  Acts  hi.  21.  Whom  the  heaven  must  receive,  until  the 
times  of  restitution  of  all  things,  which  God  hath  spoken  by  the 
mouth  of  all  his  holy  prophets,  since  the  world  began.  With  1  Cor. 
xi.  24.  And  when  he  had  given  thanks,  he  brake  it,  and  said,  Take, 
eat;  this  is  my  body,  which  is  broken  for  you:  this  do  in  remem- 
brance of  me.  v.  25.  After  the  same  manner  also  he  took  the  cup, 
when  he  had  supped,  saying,  This  cup  is  the  New  Testament  in  my 
blood:  This  do  ye,  as  oft  as  ye  drink  it,  in  remembrance  of  me.  v. 
26.  (See  in  letter  /.)  Luke  xxiv.  6.  He  is  not  here,  but  is  risen: 
remember  how  he  spake  unto  you  when  he  was  yet  in  Galilee,  v.  39. 
Behold  my  hands  and  my  feet,  that  it  is  I  myself :  handle  me,  and 
see,  for  a  spirit  hath  not  flesh  and  boucs,  as  yc  sec  111c  have. 


Chap.  29.       'the  Confession  of  Faith,  163 

VII.  Worthy  receivers,  outwardly  partaking 
of  the  visible  elements  in  this  sacrament,/z  do 
then  also  inwardly  by  faith,  really  and  indeed, 
yet  not  carnally  and  corporally,  but  spiritually, 
receive  and  feed  upon  Christ  crucified,  and  all 
benefits  of  his  death:  the  body  and  blood  of 
Christ  being  then,  not  corporally  or  carnally,  in, 
with,  or  under  the  bread  and  wine ;  yet  as  really, 
but  spiritually,  present  to  the  faith  of  believers 
in  that  ordinance,  as  the  elements  themselves  are 
to  their  outward  senses.o 

VIII.  Although  ignorant  and  wicked  men 
receive  the  outward  elements  in  this  sacrament, 
yet  they  receive  not  the  thing  signified  thereby ; 
but  by  their  unworthy  coming  thereunto,  are 
guilty  of  the  body  and  blood  of  the  Lord,  to  their 
own  damnation.  Wherefore  all  ignorant  and 
ungodly  persons,  as  they  are  unfit  to  enjoy  com- 
munion with  him,  so  are  they  unworthy  of  the 
Lord's  table,  and  cannot,  without  great  sin  against 
Christ,  while  they  remain  such,  partake  of  these 
holy  mysteries,/*  or  be  admitted  thereunto.^ 

VII.  n  1  Cor.  xi.  28.  (See  in  letter  /.) 

o  i  Cor.  x.  1 6.  The  cup  of  blessing  which  we  bless,  is  it  not  the 
communion  of  the  blood  of  Christ?  the  bread  which  we  break,  is 
it  not  the  communion  of  the  body  of  Christ  ? 

VIII.  /  i  Cor.  xi.  27,  28.  (See  in  letter  /.)  v.  29.  For  he  that 
eateth  and  drinketh  unworthily,  eateth  and  drinketh  damnation  to 
himself,  not  discerning  the  Lord's  body.  2  Cor.  vi.  14.  Be  ye  not 
unequally  yoked  together  with  unbelievers  :  for  what  fellowship  hath 
righteousness  with  unrighteousness?  and  what  communion  hath 
light  with  darkness  ?  v.  15.  And  what  concord  hath  Christ  with  Be- 
lial ?  or  what  part  hath  he  that  believeth,  with  an  infidel?  v.  16.  And 
what  agreement  hath  the  temple  of  God  with  idols  ?  for  ye  are  the 
temple  of  the  living  God;  as  God  hath  said,  I  will  dwell  in  them, 
and  walk  in  them;  and  I  will  be  their  God,  and  they  shall  be  my 
people. 

q  1  Cor.  v.  6.  Your  glorying  is  not  good:  Know  ye  not  that  a  lit- 
tle leaven  leaveneth  the  whole  lump?  v.  7.  Purge  out,  therefore,  the 


(  r«4  ) 

Chap.  XXX.    Of  Church-Censures. 

-1  HE  Lord  Jesus,  as  King  and  Head  of  hiq 
church,  hath  therein  appointed  a  government  in 
the  hand  of  church-officers,  distinct  from  the  ci- 
vil magistrate.^ 

old  leaven,  that  ye  may  be  a  new  lump,  as  ye  are  unleavened.  For 
even  Christ  our  pas;over  is  sacrificed  for  us.  v.  13.  But  them  that 
are  without  God  judgeth  Therefore  put  away  from  among  your- 
selves that  wicked  person,  2  Thess.  iii.  6.  Now  we  command'  you, 
brethren,  in  the  name  of  our  Lord  Jesus  Christ,  that  ye  withdraw 
yourselves  from  <=very  brother  that  walketh  disorderly,  and  not  after 
the  tradition  which  he  received  of  us.  v.  14.  And  if  any  man  obey 
not  our  word  by  this  epistle,  note  that  man,  and  have  no  company 
with  him,  that  he  may  b?  ashamed,  v.  15.  Yet  count  him  not  as  an 
enemy,  but  admonish  him  as  a  brother.  Mat.  vii.  6.  Give  not  that 
which  is  holy  unto  the  dogs,  neither  cast  ye  your  pearls  before  swine, 
lest  they  trample  them  under  their  feet,  and  turn  again  and  rent  you. 
I.  a  Isa.  ix.  6.  For  unto  us  a  Child  is  born,  unto  us  a  Son  is  given, 
and  the  government  shall  be  upon  his  shoulder:  and  his  name  shall 
be  called  Wonderful,  Counsellor,  the  mighty  God,  The  everlasting 
Father,  The  Prince  of  Peace,  y.  7.  Of  the  increase  of  his  govern- 
ment and  peace  there  shall  be  no  end,  upon  the  throne  of  David  and 
upon  his  kingdom,  to  order  it,  and  to  establish  it  with  judgment  and 
with  justice,  from  henceforth  even  forever  :  the  zeal  of  the  Lord  of 
hosts  will  perform  this  1  Tim.  v.  1  7.  Let  the  elders  that  rule  well, 
be  counted  worthy  of  double  honour,  especially  they  who  labour 
in  the  word  and  doctrine.  1  Thess.  v.  12.  And  we  beseech  you, 
brethren,  to  know  them  which  labour  among  you,  and  are  over  you 
in  the  Lord,  and  admonish  you.  Acts  xx.  1  7.  And  from  Miletus, 
he  sent  to  Ephesus,  and  called  the  elders  of  the  church,  v.  1 8.  And 
■when  they  were  come  to  him,  he  said  unto  them,  Ye  know,  from  the 
first  day  that  I  came  into  Asia,  after  what  manner  I  have  been  with 
you  at  all  seasons.  Heb.  xiii.  7.  Remember  them  which  have  the 
rule  over  you,  who  have  spoken  unto  you  the  word  of  God;  whose 
faith  follow,  considering  the  end  of  their  conversation,  v.  17.  Obey 
them  tint  have  the  rule  over  you,  and  submit  yourselves:  for  they 
•watch  for  your  souls,  as  they  that  must  give  account :  that  they  may 
do  it  with  joy,  and  not  with  grief :  for  that  is  unprofitable  for  you. 
v.  24.  Salute  all  them  that  have  the  rule  over  you,  and  all  the  saints. 
They  of  Italy  salute  you.  1  Cor.  xii.  28.  And  God  hath  set  some 
in  the  church,  first  apostles,  secondarily  prophets,  thirdly  teacher-, 
liter  that  miracles,  then  gifts  of  healings,  helps,  governments,  diver-; 


phap.  30 .       The  Confession  of  Faith.  165 

II.  To  these  officers  the  keys  of  the  king- 
dom of  heaven  are  committed,  by  virtue  whereof 
they  have  power  respectively  to  retain  and  remit 
sins;  to  shut  that  kingdom  against  the  impeni- 
tent, both  by  the  word  and  censures;  and  to 
open  it  unto  penitent  sinners,  by  the  ministrv  of 
the  gospel,  and  by  absolution  from  censures,  as 
occasion  shall  require.^ 

III.  Church- censures  are  necessary  for  the  re- 
claiming and  gaining  of  offending  brethren;  for 
deterring  of  others  from  the  like  offences;  for 
purging  out  of  that  leaven  which  might  infecl  the 
whole  lump ;  for  vindicating  the  honour  of  Christ 
and  the  holy  profession  of  the  gospel;  and  for 
preventing  the  wrath  of  God,  which  might  justly 
fall  upon  the  church,  if  they  should  suffer  his  co- 

sities  of  tongues.  Mat.  xxviii.  18.  And  Jesus  came,  and  spake  unto 
them,  saying,  All  power  is  given  unto  me  in  heaven  and  in  earth. 
y.  19.  Go  ye  therefore  and  teach  all  nations,  baptizing  them  in  the 
name  of  the  Father,  and  of  the  Son,  and  of  the  Holy  Ghost:  v. 
so.  Teaching  them  to  observe  all  things  whatsoever  I  have  com- 
manded you :  and  lo,  I  am  with  you  alway,  even  unto  the  end  of 
the  world. 

II.  h  Mat.  xvi.  19.  And  I  will  give  unto  thee  the  keys  of  the  king- 
dom of  heaven;  and  whatsoever  thou  shalt  bind  on  earth,  shall  be 
bound  in  heaven  :  and  whatsoever  thou  shalt  loose  on  earth,  shall  be 
loosed  in  heaven.  Mat.  xviii.  17.  And  if  he  shall  neglect  to  hear 
them,  tell  it  unto  the  church :  but  if  he  neglect  to  hear  the  church, 
let  him  be  unto  thee  as  an  heathen  man,  and  a  publican,  v.  18. 
Verily  I  say  unto  you,  Whatsoever  ye  shall  bind  on  earth,  shall  be 
bound  in  heaven :  and  whatsoever  ye  shall  loose  on  earth,  shall  be 
loosed  in  heaven.  John  xx.  21.  Then  said  Jesus  to  them  again,  Peace 
be  unto  you  :  as  my  Father  hath  sent  me,  even  so  send  I  you.  v.  22. 
And  when  he  had  said  this,  he  breathed  on  them,  and  said  unto  them, 
receive  ye  the  Holy  Ghost,  v.  23.  Whose  soever  sins  ye  remit,  thev" 
are  remitted  unto  them:  and  whose  soever  sins  ye  retain,  thev  are  re- 
tained. 2  Cor.  ii.  6.  Sufficient  to  such  a  man  is  this  punishment, 
which  was  inflicted  of  many.  v.  7.  So  that  contrariwise,  ye  ouo-ht 
rather  to  forgive  him,  and  comfort  him,  lest  perhaps  such  a  one  should 
be  swallowed  up  with  overmuch  sorrow,  v.  8.  Wherefore  I  beseech 
you,  that  you  would  confirm  your  love  towards  him. 


1 66  tfhe  Confession  of  Faith.       Chap.  31, 

venant,  and  the  seals  thereof,  to  be  profaned  by 
notorious  and  obstinate  offenders.^ 

IV.  For  the  better  attaining  of  these  ends,  the 
officers  of  the  church  are  to  proceed  by  admoni- 
tion, suspension  from  the  sacrament  of  the  Lord's 
supper  for  a  season,  and  by  excommunication  from 
the  church,  according  to  the  nature  of  the  crime, 
and  demerit  of  the  person.^/ 


Chap.  XXXI.  Of  Synods  and  Councils. 

X  OR  the  better  government  and  further  edifi- 
cation of  the  church,  there  ought  to  be  such  as- 

III.  c  (1  Cor.  v.  throughout.)  r  Tim.  v.  so.  Them  that  sin  re- 
buke before  all,  that  others  also  may  fear.  Mat.  vii.  6.  Give  not 
that  which  is  holy  unto  the  clogs,  neither  cast  ye  your  pearls  before 
swine,  lest  they  trample  them  under  their  feet,  and  turn  again  and 
rent  you.  I  Tim.  i.  2.0.  Of  whom  is  Hymeneus  and  Alexander; 
whom  I  have  delivered  unto  Satan,  that  they  may  learn  not  to  blas- 
pheme. (1  Cor.  xi.  27  to  the  end.)  With  Jude23.  And  others  save 
with  fear,  pulling  them  out  of  the  fire;  hating  even  the  garments  spot- 
ted by  the  flesh. 

IV.  d  1  Thess.  v.  12.  And  we  beseech  you,  brethren,  to  know 
them  which  labour  among  you,  and  are  over  you  in  the  Lord,  and 
admonish  you.  2  Thess.  iii.  6.  Now  we  command  you,  brethren, 
in  the  name  of  our  Lord  Jesus  Christ,  that  ye  withdraw  yourselves 
from  every  brother  that  walketh  disorderly,  and  not  after  the  tradi- 
tion which  he  received  of  us.  v.  14.  And  if  any  man  obey  not 
our  word  bv  this  epistle,  note  that  man,  and  have  no  company  with 
him,  that  he  may  be  ashamed,  v.  1 5  Yet  count  him  not  as  an  enemy, 
but  admonish  him  as  a  brother.  1  Cor.  v.  4.  In  the  name  of  our 
Lord  Jesus  Christ,  when  ye  are  gathered  together,  and  my  spirit, 
with  the  power  of  our  Lord  Jesus  Christ,  v.  <j.  To  deliver  such  an 
one  unto  Satan  for  the  destruction  of  the  flesh,  that  the  spirit  may  be 
saved  in  the  dav  of  the  Lord  Jesus,  v.  13.  But  them  that  are  without 
God  judgeth.  Therefore  put  away  from  among  yourselves  that  wick- 
ed person.  Mat.  wiii.  17.  And  if  lie  shall  neglect  to  hear  them,  tell 
it  unto  the  church  :  but  if  he  neglect  to  hear  the  church,  let  him  be 
unto  thee  as  an  heathen  man,  and  a  publican.  Tit.  iii.  io.  A  man 
that  is  an  '.  .    iter  the  first  and  second  admonition,  reject. 


Chap.  3 1 .        tfhe  Confession  of  Faith.  1 6  7 

semblies  as  are  commonly  called  Synods  or  Coun- 
cils.^ 

II.  The  ministers  of  Christ,  of  themselves,  and 
by  virtue  of  their  office ;  or  they  with  other  fit 
persons,  upon  delegation  from  their  churches, 
have  the  exclusive  right  to  appoint,  adjourn,  or 
dissolve  such  Synods  or  Councils :  though,  in  ex- 
traordinary cases,  it  may  be  proper  for  magistrates 
to  desire  the  calling  of  a  Synod  of  ministers  and 
other  fit  persons,  to  consult  and  advise  with  about 
matters  of  religion ;  and  in  such  cases,  it  is  the 
duty  of  churches  to  comply  with  their  desire.^ 

I.  a  A£b  xv.  2.  When  therefore  Paul  and  Barnabas  had  nosmal! 
dissension  and  disputation  with  them,  they  determined  that  Paul  and 
Barnabas,  and  certain  other  of  them,  should  go  up  to  Jerusalem  unto 
the  apostles  and  elders  about  this  question,  v.  4.  And  when  they 
were  come  to  Jerusalem,  they  were  received  of  the  church,  and  of 
the  apostles  and  elders,  and  they  declared  all  things  that  God  had  done 
with  them.  v.  6.  And  the  apostles  and  elders  came  together  for  to 
consider  of  this  matter. 

II.  b  Afts  xv.  2,  4.  (See  in  letter  a.)  v.  22.  Then  pleased  it  the 
apostles  and  elders,  with  the  whole  church,  to  send  chosen  men  of 
their  own  company  to  Antioch  with  Paul  and  Barnabas;  namely, 
Judas,  sirnamed  Barsabas,  and  Silas,  chief  men  among  the  brethren, 
v.  23.  And  they  wrote  letters  by  them  after  this  manner,  The  apostles, 
and  elders,  and  brethren  send  greeting  unto  the  brethren  which  are  of 
the  Gentiles  in  Antioch,  and  Syria,  and  Cilicia.  v.  25.  It  seemed 
good  unto  us,  being  assembled  with  one  accord,  to  send  chosen  men 
unto  you,  with  our  beloved  Barnabas  and  Paul.  Isa.  xlix.  23.  And 
kings  shall  be  thy  nursing-fathers,  and  their  queens  thy  nursing- 
mothers;  they  shall  bow  down  to  thee  with  their  face  toward  the 
earth,  and  lick  up  the  dust  of  thy  feet,  and  thou  shalt  know  that  I 
am  the  Lord:  for  they  shall  not  be  ashamed  that  wait  for  me. 
1  Tim.  ii.  1.  I  exhort,  therefore,  that  first  of  all,  supplications, 
prayers,  intercessions,  and  giving  of  thanks  be  made  for  all  men: 
v.  2.  For  kings,  and  for  all  that  are  in  authority;  that  we  mayjead 
a  quiet  and  peaceable  life  in  all  godliness  and  honesty.  Mat.  ii.  4. 
And  when  he  had  gathered  all  the  chief  priests  and  scribes  of  »\e 
people  together,  he  demanded  of  them  where  Christ  should  be  born, 
v.  5.  And  they  said  unto  him,  In  Bethlehem  of  Judea:  for  thus  it  is 
written  by  the  prophet.  Prov.  xi.  14.  Where  no  counsel  is,  the  peo- 
ple fall;  but  in  the  multitude  of  counsellors  there  is  safety. 


1 68  The  Confession  of  Faith.       Chap.  3 1 , 

III.  It  belongcth  to  Synods  and  Councils,  minis- 
terially to  determine  controversies  of  faith,  and 
cases  of  conscience ;  to  set  down  rules  and  direc- 
tions for  the  better  ordering  of  the  public  worship 
of  God,  and  government  of  his  church ;  to  receive 
complaints  in  cases  of  mal-administration,  and 
authoritatively  to  determine  the  same :  which  de- 
crees and  determinations,  if  consonant  to  the 
word  of  God,  are  to  be  received  with  reverence 
and  submission,  not  only  for  their  agreement  with 
the  word,  but  also  for  the  power  whereby  they 
are  made,  as  being  an  ordinance  of  God,  appointed 
thereunto  in  his  wordx 

IV.  All  Synods  or  Councils,  since  the  apostles' 
times,  whether  general  or  particular,  may  err, 
and  many  have  erred ;  therefore  they  are  not  to  be 
made  the  rule  of  faith  or  practice,  but  to  be  used 
as  a  help  in  both.;/ 

V.  Synods  and  Councils  are  to  handle  or  con-^ 
elude  nothing  but  that  which  is  ecclesiastical :  and 

III.  c  Acts  xv.  15,  19,  24,  27,  28,  29,  30,  31.  (See  in  the  Bible.) 
Acts  xvi.  4.  And  as  they  went  through  the  cities,  they  delivered  them 
the  decrees  for  to  keep,  that  were  ordained  of  the  apostles  and  elders, 
which  were  at  Jerusalem.  Mat.  xviii.  i  7.  And  if  he  shall  neglect  to 
hear  them,  tell  it  unto  the  church  :  but  if  he  neglect  to  hear  the  church, 
let  him  be  unto  thee  as  an  heathen  man,  and  a  publican,  v.  18. 
Verily,  I  say  unto  you,  Whatsoever  ye  shall  bind  on  earth,  shall  be 
bound  in  heaven:  and  whatsoever  ye  shall  loose  on  earth,  shall  be 
loosed  in  heaven,  v.  19.  Again,  I  say  unto  you,  that  it  two  of  you 
shall  agree  on  earth,  as  touching  any  thing  that  they  shall  ask,  it  shall 
be  done  for  them  of  my  Father  which  is  in  heaven,  v.  20.  For 
where  two  or  three  are  gathered  together  in  my  name,  there  am  I  in 
the  midst  of  them. 

IV.  d  Eph.  ii.  20.  And  are  built  upon  the  foundation  of  the 
apostles  and  prophets,  Jesus  Christ  himself  being  the  chief  corner- 
stone. Acts  xvii.  1  1.  These  were  more  noble  than  those  in  Thes- 
salonica,  in  that  they  received  the  word  with  all  readiness  of  mind, 
end  searched  the  scriptures  daily,  whether  those  things  were  so.  1  Cor. 
ii.  5.  That  your  faith  should  not  stand  in  the  wisdom  of  men,  but  in 
the  power  of  God.  2  Cor.  i.  24.  Not  for  that  we  h;ivc  dominion 
over  your  faith,  but  are  helper*  of  your  joy  ;  lor  by  faith  ye  Stand. 


Chap.  3  2.       *the  Confession  of  Faith*  169 

are  not  to  intermeddle  with  civil  affairs,  which 
concern  the  commonwealth,  unless  by  way  of 
humble  petition,  in  cases  extraordinary;  or  by 
way  of  advice  for  satisfaction  of  conscience,  if  they 
be  thereunto  required  by  the  civil  magistrates 


Chap*  XXXII.    Of  the  State  of  Men  after  Death) 
and  of  the  Kesurredion  of  the  Dead, 

A  HE  bodies  of  men  after  death  return  to  dust 
and  see  corruption  \a  but  their  souls,  (which 
neither  die  nor  sleep)  having  an  immortal  sub- 
sistence, immediately  return  to  God  who  gave 
thern.^  The  souls  of  the  righteous^  being  then 
made  perfect  in  holiness,  are  received  into  the 
highest  heavens,  where  they  behold  the  face  of 
God  in  light  and  glory,  waiting  for  the  full  re- 
demption of  their  bodies  ;c  and  the  souls  of  the 

V.  e  Luke  xii.  i  3.  And  one  of  the  company  said  unto  him,  Mas- 
ter, speak  to  my  brother,  that  he  divide  the  inheritance  with  me.  v. 
14.  And  he  said  unto  him,  Man,  who  made  me  a  judge,  or  a  divider 
over  you?  John  xviii.  36.  Jesus  answered,  My  kingdom  is  not  of 
this  world  :  if  my  kingdom  were  of  this  world,  then  would  my  ser- 
vants fight,  that  I  should  not  be  delivered  to  the  Jews  3  but  now  is 
niv  kingdom  not  from  hence. 

I.  a  Gen.  iii.  19.  In  the  sweat  of  thy  face  shalt  thou  eat  bread, 
till  thou  return  unto  the  ground  ;  for  out  of  it  wast  thou  taken  :  for 
dust  thou  art,  and  unto  dust  thou  shalt  return.  Acts  xiii.  36.  For 
David,  after  lie  had  served  his  own  generation  by  the  will  of  God, 
fell  on  sleep,  and  was  laid  unto  his  fathers,  and  saw  corruption. 

b  Luke  xxiii.  43.  And  Jesus  said  unto  him,  Verily  I  say  unto 
thee,  To-day  shalt  thou  be  with  me  in  paradise.  Eccl.  xii.  7.  Then 
shall  the  dust  return  to  the  earth  as  it  was  ;  and  the  spirit  shall  return 
unto  God  who  gave  it. 

c  Heb.  xii.  23.  To  the  general  assembly  and  church  of  the  first- 
born which  are  written  in  heaven,  and  to  God  the  judge  of  all,  and 
to  the  spirits  of  just  men  made  perfect.  2  Cor.  v.  1.  For  we  know, 
that  if  our  earthly  house  of  this  tabernacle  were  dissolved,  we  have  a 
building  of  God,  an  house  not  made  with  hands,  eternal  in  the  hea~ 

Y 


i  70  i'be  Confession  of  Faith.        Chap.  32. 

wicked  are  cast  into  hell,  where  they  remain  in 
torments  and  utter  darkness,  reserved  to  the  judo-- 
ment  of  the  great  day.;/  Besides  these  two  places 
for  souls  separated  from  the  bodies,  the  scripture 
acknowledged!  none. 

II.  At  the  last  day,  such  as  are  found  alive 
shall  not  die,  but  be  changed :?  and  all  the  dead 
shall  be  raised  up  with  the  self-same  bodies,  and 
none  other,  although  with  different  qualities, 
which  shall  be  united  again  to  their  souls  for  ever/" 

vens.  v.  6.  Therefore  we  are  always  confident,  knowing  that  whilst 
we  are  at  home  in  the  body,  we  are  absent  from  the  Lord :  v.  8.  We 
are  confident,  I  say,  and  willing  rather  to  be  absent  from  the  body, 
and  to  be  present  with  the  Lord.  Phil.  i.  23.  For  I  am  in  a  strait 
betwixt  two,  having  a  desire  to  depart,  and  to  be  with  Christ ;  which 
is  far  better.  With  Ads  iii.  21.  Whom  the  heaven  must  receive, 
until  the  times  of  restitution  of  all  things,  which  God  hath  spoken  by 
the  mouth  of  all  his  holy  prophets  since  the  world  began.  And 
Eph.  iv.  10.  He  that  descended  is  the  same  also  that  ascended  up  far 
above  all  heavens,  that  he  might  fill  all  things. 

d  Luke  xvi.  23.  And  in  hell  he  lift  up  his  eyes,  being  in  tor- 
ments, and  seeth  Abraham  afar  off,  and  Lazarus  in  his  bosom,  v. 
24.  And  he  cried,  and  said,  Father  Abraham,  have  mercy  on  me, 
and  send  Lazarus  that  he  may  dip  the  tip  of  his  finger  in  water  and 
cool  my  tongue  ;  for  I  am  tormented  in  this  flame.  A£ts  i.  25.  That 
he  may  take  part  of  this  ministry  and  apostleship,  from  which  Judas 
by  transgression  fell,  that  he  mie;ht  go  to  his  own  place.  Jude  6. 
And  the  angels  which  kept  not  their  first  estate,  but  left  their  own 
habitation,  he  hath  reserved  in  everlasting  chains  under  darkness, 
unto  the  judgment  of  the  great  day.  v.  7.  Even  as  Sodom  and  Go- 
morrha,  and  the  cities  about  them  in  like  manner,  giving  themselves 
over  to  fornication,  and  going  after  strange  flesh,  are  set  forth  for 
an  example,  suffering  the  vengeance  of  eternal  fire.  1  Peter  iii.  19. 
By  which  also  he  went  and  preached  unto  the  spirits  in  prison. 

II.  e  r  Thess.  iv.  17.  Then  we  which  are  alive  and  remain,  shall 
be  caught  up  together  with  them  in  the  clouds,  to  meet  the  Lord  in 
the  air:  and  so  shall  we  ever  be  with  the  Lord.  1  Cor.  xv.  51.  Be- 
hold, 1  shew  you  a  mystery;  we  shall  not  all  sleep,  but  we  shall  all 
be  changed,  v.  52.  In  a  moment,  in  the  twinkling  of  an  eye,  at  the 
last  trump,  (for  the  trumpet  shall  sound,)  and  the  dead  shall  be  rais- 
ed incorruptible,  and  we  shall  be  changed. 

/Job.  xix.  26.  And  though  alter  my  skin,  worms  destroy  this  body, 
yet  in  my  flesh  shall  I  see  God,  v.  27.  Wiiom  1  shall  see  for  myself, 
and  mine  eyes  shall  behold,  and  not  another;  though  my  reins  be 


Chap.  33.       The  Confession  of  Faith.  iyi 

III.  The  bodies  of  the  unjust  shall,  by  the 
power  of  Christ,  be  raised  to  dishonour ;  the  bo- 
dies of  the  just,  by  his  Spirit,  unto  honour,  and  be 
made  conformable  to  his  own  glorious  body.g 


Chap.  XXXIII.     Of  the  last  Judgment. 

vTOD  hath  appointed  a  day,  wherein  he  will 
judge  the  world  in  righteousness  by  Jesus  Christ,^ 
to  whom  all  power  and  judgment  is  given  of  the 
Father.^  In  which  day,  not  only  the  apostate 
angels  shall  be  judged^  but  likewise  all  persons 

consumed  withjn  rac.  _  1  Cor.  xv.  42.  So  also  is  the  resurredion  of 
the  dead.  It  is  sown  in  corruption,  it  is  raised  in  incorruption  :  v. 
43.  It  is  sown  in  dishonour,  it  is  raised  in  glory  :  it  is  sown  in  weak- 
ness, it  is  raised  in  power:  v.  44.  It  is  sown  a  natural  body,  it  is 
raised  a  spiritual  body.  There  is  a  natural  body,  and  there  is  a  spi- 
ritual body. 

III.  g  A&s  xxiv.  15.  And  have  hope  towards  God,  which  they 
themselves  also  allow,  that  there  shall  be  a  resurrection  of  the  dead, 
both  of  the  just  and  unjust.  John  v.  28.  Marvel  not  at  this :  for  the 
hour  is  coming,  in  the  which  all  that  are  in  the  graves  shall  hear  his 
voice,  v.  29.  And  shall  come  forth,  they  that  have  done  good  unto 
the  resurrection  of  life  ;  and  they  that  have  done  evil,  unto  the  resur- 
reclion  of  damnation.  1  Cor.  xv.  43.  (See  in  letter/.)  Phil.  iii.  zi. 
Who  shall  change  our  vile  body,  that  it  may  be  fashioned  like  unto 
his  glorious  body,  according  to  the  working  whereby  he  is  able  even 
to  subdue  all. things  unto  himself. 

I.  a  Acts  xvii.  31.  Because  he  hath  appointed  a  day,  in  the  which 
he  will  judge  the  world  in  righteousness  by  that  man  whom  he  hath 
ordained;  whereof  he  hath  given  assurance  unto  all  men,  in  that  he 
hath  raised  him  from  the  dead. 

b  John  v.  22.  For  the  Father  judgeth  no  man;  but  hath  committed 
all  judgment  unto  the  Son.  v.  27.  And  hath  given  him  authority  to 
execute  judgment  also,  because  he  is  the  Son  of  man. 

c  1  Cor.  vi.  3.  Know  ye  not  that  we  shall  judge  angels?  how  much 
•more  things  that  pertain  to  this  life?  Jude  6.  (See  letter  </ chapter 
foregoing.)  2  Pet.  ii.  4.  For  if  God  spared  not  the  angels  that  sinned, 
out  cast  them  down  to  hell,  and  delivered  them  into  chains  of  dark- 
;:css,  to  be  reserved  unto  judgment. 


i  7  2  the  Confession  of  Faith.       Chap.  3  3 . 

that  have  lived  upon  earth,  shall  appear  before 
the  tribunal  of  Christ,  to  give  an  account  of  their 
thoughts,  words,  and  deeds,  and  to  receive  accord- 
ing to  what  they  have  done  in  the  body,  whether 
good  or  evil.// 

II.  The  end  of  God's  appointing  this  dav  is  for 
the  manifestation  of  the  glory  of  his  mercy  in  the 
eternal  salvation  of  the  elect ,  and  of  his  justice  in 
the  damnation  of  the  reprobate,  who  are  wicked 
and  disobedient.  For  then  shall  the  righteous  sro 
into  everlasting  life,  and  receive  that  fulness  of 
joy,  and  refreshing  which  shall  come  from  the 
presence  of  the  Lord ;  but  the  wicked,  who  know 
riot  God,  and  obey  not  the  gospel  of  Jesus  Christ, 
shall  be  cast  into  eternal  torments,  and  be  pu- 
nished with  everlasting  destruction  *  from  the 
presence  of  the  Lord,  and  from  the  glory  of  his 
power.* 

d  2  Cor.  v.  10.  For  we  must  all  appear  before  the  judgment-seat 
of  Christ;  that  every  one  may  receive  the  things  done  in  his  body, 
according  to  that  he  hath  done,  whether  it  be  good  or  bad.  Eccl.  xii. 
74.  For  God  shall  bring  every  work  into  judgment,  with  every  se- 
cret thing,  whether  it  be  good  or  whether  it  be  evil.  Rom.  ii.  16. 
3n  the  day  when  God  shall  judge  the  secrets  of  men  by  Jesus  Christ, 
according  to  my  gospel.  Rom.  xiv.  10.  But  why  dost  thou  judge  thy 
brother?  or  why  dost  thou  set  at  nought  thy  brother?  for  we  shall 
all  stand  before  the  judgment-seat  of  Christ,  v.  12.  So  then  every 
one  of  us  shall  give  account  of  himself  to  God.  Mat.  xii.  36.  But 
I  say  unto  you,  that  every  idle  word  that  men  shall  speak,  they  shall 
give  account  thereof  in  the  day  of  judgment,  v.  37.  For  by  thy 
•words  thou  shalt  be  justified,  and  by  thy  words  thou  shalt  be  con- 
demned. 

II.  e  (Mat.  xxv.  31.  to  the  end.)  Rom.  ii.  5.  But  after  thy  hard- 
ness and  impenitent  heart,  treasurest  up  unto  thyself  wrath  against 
the  day  of  wrath,  and  revelation  0!  the  righteous  judgment  ot  God; 
v.  6.  Who  will  render  to  every  man  according  to  his  deeds.  Rom. 
ix.  22.  What  if  God,  willing  to  shew  his  wrath,  and  to  make  his 
power  known,  endured  with  much  long  suffering  the  vessels  of 
wrath  fitted  to  destruction:  v.  23.  And  that  he  might  make  known 
the  riches  ot  his  glory  on  the  vessels  of  mercy,  which  he  had  afore 
prepared  unto  glory?  Mat.  xxv.  21.  His  lord  said  unto  him,  " 


Chap.  33.       The  Confession  of  Faith,  iy? 

III.  As  Christ  would  have  us  to  be  certainly 
persuaded  that  there  shall  be  a  day  of  judgment, 
both  to  deter  all  men  from  sin,  and  for  the  Greater 
consolation  of  the  godly  in  their  adversity  f  so 
will  he  have  that  day  unknown  to  men,  that  they 
may  shake  off  all  carnal  security,  and  be  always 
watchful,  because  they  know  not  at  what  hour 
the  Lord  will  come,  and  may  be  ever  prepared  to 
say,  Come,  Lord  Jesus,  come  quickly.   Amen.g 

done,  thou  good  and  faithful  servant;  thou  hast  been  faithful  over  a 
few  things,  I  will  make  thee  ruler  over  many  things:  enter  thou  into 
the  joy  of  thy  Lord.  A<fts  iii.  19.  Repent  ye,  therefore,  and  be  con- 
verted, that  your  sins  may  be  blotted  out,  when  the  times  of  refresh- 
ing shall  come  from  the  presence  of  the  Lord.  a  Thess.  i  7—10 
(See  in  the  Bible.)  ' 

III. /a  Peter  iii.  11.  Seeing  then,  that  all  these  things  shall  be 
dissolved,  what  manner  of  persons  ought  ye  to  be  in  all  holy  con- 
versation and  godliness  ?  v.  14.  Wherefore,  beloved,  seeing  that  ye 
look  for  such  things,  be  diligent  that  ye  may  be  found  of  him  fn  peace, 
without  spot,  and  blameless.  2  Cor.  v.  10.  (See  in  letter//.)  v.  1 1. 
Knowing  therefore  the  terror  of  the  Lord,  we  persuade  men ;  but 
we  are  made  manifest  unto  God,  and  I  trust  also,  are  made  manifest 
in  your  consciences,  a  Thess.  i.  5.  Which  is  a  manifest  token  of 
the  righteous  judgment  of  God,  that  ye  mav  be  counted  worthy  of 
the  kingdom  of  God,  for  which  ye  also  suffer,  v.  6.  Seeing  it  is  a 
righteous  thing  with  God  to  recompense  tribulation  to  them  that 
trouble  you  ;  v.  7.  And  to  you  who  are  troubled,  rest  with  us,  when 
the  Lord  Jesus  shall  be  revealed  from  heaven  with  his  miohty  an- 
gels. Lukexxi.  27.  And  then  shall  they  see  the  Son  of  man  coming 
in  a  cloud  with  power  and  great  glory,  v.  28.  And  when  these  things 
begin  to  come  to  pass,  then  look  up,  and  lift  up  your  heads;  for 
your  redemption  draweth  nigh.  Rom.  viii.  23.  And  not  only  they, 
but  ourselves  also  which  have  the  first  fruits  of  the  Spirit,  even  we 
ourselves  groan  within  ourselves,  waiting  for  the  adoption,  to  wit, 
the  redemption  of  our  body.  v.  24.  For  we  are  saved  bv  hope :  but 
hope  that  is  seen,  is  not  hope  :  for  what  a  man  seeth,  why  doth  he 
yet  hope  for  ?  v.  25.  But  if  we  hope  for  that  we  see  not,  then  do  we 
with  patience  wait  lor  it. 

g  Mat.  xxiv.  36,  42,  43,  44.  (See  in  the  Bible.)  Mark  xiii.  35. 
Watch  ye,  therefore;  (for  ye  know  not  when  the  master  of  the  house 
cometh ;  at  even,  or  at  midnight,  or  at  the  cock-crowing,  or  in  the 
morning.)  v.  36.  Lest  coming  suddenly,  he  find  you  sleeping  v 
37-  And  what  I  say  unto  you,  I  say  unto  all,  Watch.  Luke  xii. 
3:>.  Let  your  loins  be  girded  about,  and  your  lights  burning;  v.  36, 


fhc  Confession  of  Faith.       Chap.  33. 


yourselves  like  unto  men  that  wait  for  their  lord,  when  he 

•urn  from  the  wedding;  that  when  he  cometh  and  knocketh, 

.  '  open  unto  him  immediately.  Rev.  xxii.  20.  He  which  tes~ 

•,,  saith,  Surely  I  come  quickly.    Amen.    Even  so, 

come,  Lord  Jeaus. 


THE 

LARGER  CATECHISM, 

AGREED  UPON  BY  THE 

% 

ASSEMBLY  OF  DIVINES  AT  WESTMINSTER, 

WITH    THE    ASSISTANCE    OF 

COMMISSIONERS 

FROM    THE 

CHURCH   OF   SCOTLAND, 

AS    RECEIVED    ET    THE 

ASSOCIATE-REFORMED   CHURCH 


NORTH-AMERICA. 


WITH    THE 


PROOFS  FROM  THE  SCRIPTURE, 


NEW-YORK: 
Printed  by  T.  &  J.  SWORDS,  No.  95  Pearl-ftrset. 

1799. 


THE 

LARGER  CATECHISM. 


Question  i .  J/f/'HAT  is  the  chief  and  highest  end 
of  Man  f 

Anfwer.  Man's  chief  and  highest  end  is  to 
glorify  God,a  and  fully  to  enjoy  him  for  ever.b 

Q.  2.  How  doth  it  appear  that  there  is  a  God? 

A.  The  very  light  of  nature  in  man,  and  the 
works  of  God,  declare  plainly  that  there  is  a  God;c 

i.  a  Rom.  xi.  36.  For  of  him,  and  through  him,  and  to  him  are 
all  things:  to  whom  be  glory  for  ever.  Amen.  1  Cor.  x.  31.  Whe- 
ther therefore  ye  eat  or  drink,  or  whatsoever  ve  do,  do  all  to  the  glory 
of  God. 

b  Psal.  lxxiii.  24.  Thou  shalt  guide  me  with  thy  counsel,  and  af- 
terward receive  me  to  glory,  v.  25..  Whom  have  I  in  heaven  but 
thee  ?  and  there  is  none  upon  earth  that  I  desire  besides  thee.  v.  26. 
My  flesh  and  my  heart  faileth :  but  God  is  the  strength  of  my  heart, 
and  my  portion  for  ever.  v.  27.  For  lo,  they  that  are  far  from  thee, 
shall  perish:  thou  hast  destroyed  all  them  that  go  a  whoring  from 
thee.  v.  28.  But  it  is  good  for  me  to  draw  near  to  God  :  I  have  put 
my  trust  in  the  Lord  God,  that  I  may  declare  all  thy  works.  John 
xvii.  21.  That  they  all  may  be  one,  as  thou,  Father,  art  in  me,  and 
I  in  thee;  that  they  also  may  be  one  in  us ;  that  the  world  may  be- 
lieve that  thou  hast  sent  me.  v.  22.  And  the  glory  which  thou  gavest 
me,  I  have  given  them  :  that  they  may  be  one,  even  as  we  are  one. 
v.  23.  I  in  them,  and  thou  in  me,  that  they  may  be  made  perfect  in 
one ;  and  that  the  world  may  know  that  thou  hast  sent  me,  and  hast 
loved  them,  as  thou  hast  loved  me. 

2.  c  Rom.  i.  19.  Because  that  which  may  be  known  of  God,  is  ma- 
nifest in  them  ;  for  God  hath  shewed  it  unto  them.  v.  20.  For  the 
invisible' things  of  him  from  the  creation  of  the  world  are- clearly  seen, 
being  understood  by  the  things  that  are  made,  even  his  eternal  power 
and  Godhead;  so  that  they  are  without  excuse.  Psal.  xix.  1.  The 
heavens  declare  the  glory  of  God  :  and  the  firmament  sheweth  his 
handy-work.  v.  2.  Day  unto  day  uttereth  speech,  and  night  unto 
night  sheweth  knowledge,  v.  3.  There  is  no  speech,  nor  language, 
where  their  voice  is  not  heard.  Acfs  xvii.  28.  Jfor  in  him  we  live, 
and  move,  and  have  our  being.  '( 

z  { 


1 80  The  Larger  Catechism. 

by  and  with  the  scriptures  in  the  heart  of  man,  is 
alone  able  fully  to  persuade  it  that  they  are  the 
very  word  of  God.;;/ 

Q^5.  What  do  the  scriptures  principally  teach  ? 

A.  The  scriptures  principally  teach,  what  man 
is  to  believe  concerning  God,  and  what  duty  God 
requires  of  man.« 

What  man  ought  to  believe  concerning 

God. 

Q.  6.  What  do  the  scriptures  make  known  of 
God? 

A.  The  scriptures  make  known  what  God  is,o 

gat  he  us  with  the  word  of  truth,  that  we  should  be  a  kind  of  first- 
fruits  of  his  creatures.  Psal.  xix.  7.  The  law  of  the  Lord  is  perfect, 
converting  the  soul :  the  testimony  of  the  Lord  is  sure,  making  wise 
the  simple,  v.  8.  The  statutes  of  the  Lord  are  right,  rejoicing  the 
heart:  the  commandment  of  the  Lord  is  pure,  enlightening  the  eyes. 
v.  9.  The  fear  of  the  Lord  is  clean,  enduring  for  ever:  the  judgments 
of  the  Lord  are  true,  and  righteous  altogether.  Rom.  xv.  4.  For 
whatsoever  things  were  written  aforetime,  were  written  for  our  learn- 
ing ;  that  we,  through  patience  and  comfort  of  the  scriptures,  might 
have  hope.  Acts  xx.  32.  And  now,  brethren,  I  commend  you  tq 
God,  and  to  the  word  of  his  grace,  which  is  able  to  build  you  up, 
and  to  give  you  an  inheritance  among  all  them  which  are  sancti- 
fied. 

m  John  xvi.  13.  Howbeit,  when  he  the  Spirit  of  truth  is  come, 
he  will  guide  you  into  all  truth :  for  he  shall  not  speak  of  himself, 
but  whatsoever  he  shall  hear,  that  shall  he  speak:  and  he  will  shew 
you  things  to  come.  v.  14.  He  shall  glorify  me  :  for  he  shall  receive 
of  mine,  and  shall  shew  it  unto  you.  1  John  ii.  20.  But  ye  have  an 
unction  from  the  holy  One,  and  ye  know  all  things,  v.  27.  But  the 
anointing  which  ye  have  received  of  him  abideth  in  you:  and  ye 
need  not  that  any  man  teach  you:  but,  as  the  same  anointing  teach- 
eth  you  of  all  things,  and  is  truth,  and  is  no  Lie;  mu\  even  as  it  bath 
taught  you,  ye  shall  abide  in  him.  John  xx.  31.  But  these  arc  writ- 
ten, that  ye  might  believe  that  Jesus  is  the  Christ,  the  Son  of  God, 
and  that  believing  ye  might  have  life  through  his  name. 

5.  ;/  2  Tim.  i.  13.  Hold  fast  the  form  or  sound  words,  which  thou 
hast  heard  of  me,  in  faith  and  love  which  is  in  Christ  Jesus. 

6.  0  HeL>.  xi.  6.  But  without  faith  it  is  impossible  to  please  him: 
for  he  that  comcth  to  God  must  believe  that  he  is,  and  that  he  is  a 

rdcr  of  them  that  diligently  seek  him. 


^bf  Larger  Catechism.  1 8 1 

the  persons  in  the  Godhead,/)  his  decrees,^  and 
the  execution  of  his  decrees./- 

Q.  7.  What  is  God? 

A.  God  is  a  Spirit,!  in  and  of  himself  infinite 
in  being,/  glory,"U  blessedness,w  and  perfection  \x 
all-sufficient,^/  eternal, z  unchangeable,*  in.com- 

p  1  John  v.  7.  For  there  are  three  that  bear  record  in  heaven, 
the  Father,  the  Word,  and  the  Holy  Ghost:  and  these  three  are 
one. 

q  Acls  xv.  14.  Simeon  hath  declared  how  God  at  the  first  did  visit 
the  Gentiles,  to  take  out  of  them  a  people  for  his  name.  v.  15.  And 
to  this  agree  the  words  of  the  prophets;  as  it  is  written,  v.  18. 
Known  unto  God  are  all  his  works  from  the  beginning  of  the  world. 

r  Afts  iv.  27.  For  of  a  truth,  against  thy  holy  child  Jesus,  whom 
thou  hast  anointed,  both  Herod  and  Pontius  Pilate,  with  the  Gen- 
tiles and  the  people  of  Israel,  were  gathered  together,  v.  28.  For  to 
do  whatsoever  thy  hand  and  thy  counsel  determined  before  to  be 

done. 

7.  s  John  iv.  24.  God  is  a  Spirit,  and  they  that  worship  him, 
must  worship  him  in  spirit  and  in  truth. 

t  Exod.  iii.  14.  And  God  said  unto  Moses,  I  AM  THAT  I 
AM:  And  he  said,  Thus  shalt  thou  say  unto  the  children  of  Israel, 
I  AM  hath  sent  me  unto  vou.  Job  xi.  7.  Canst  thou  by  searching 
find  out  God  ?  canst  thou  find  out  the  Almighty  unto  perfedion  ? 
v.  8.  It  is  as  high  as  heaven,  what  canst  thou  dor  deeper  than  hell, 
what  canst  thou  know?  v.  9.  The  measure  thereof  is  longer  than  the 
earth,  and  broader  than  the  sea. 

v  A6ls  vii.  2.  The  God  of  glory  appeared  unto  our  Father  Abra- 
ham, when  he  was  in  Mesopotamia,  before  he  dwelt  in  Charran. 

10  1  Tim.  vi.  15.  Which  in  his  times  he  shall  shew,  who  is  the 
blessed  and  only  Potentate,  the  King  of  kings,  and  Lord  of  lords. 

x  Mat.  v.  48.  Be  ye  therefore  perfect,  even  as  your  Father  which 
is  in  heaven  is  perfect. 

y  Gen.  xvii.  r.  And  when  Abraham  was  ninety  years  old  and  nine, 
the  Lord  appeared  to  Abraham,  and  said  unto  him,  I  am  the  Al- 
mighty God:  walk  before  me,  and  be  thou  perfecL 

%  Psal.  xc.  2.  -Before  the  mountains  were  brought  forth,  or  ever 
thou  hadst  formed  the  earth  and  the  world:  even  from  everlasting 
to  everlasting,  thou  art  God. 

a  Mai.  iii.  6.  For  I  am  the  Lord,  I  change  not:  therefore  ye 
s6ns  of  Jacob  are  not  consumed.  James  i.  1  7.  Every  good  gift,  and 
every  perfeft  gift  is  from  above,  and  cometh  down  from  the  Father 
of  lights,  with  whom  is  no  variableness,  neither  shadow  of  turn- 
ing. 


1 8  2  I'hc  Larger  Catechism. 

prehensible,$  every  where  presence  Almighty,*/ 
knowing  all  things,^  most  wise^/Ynost  holy  ,g  most 
just,Z>  most  merciful  and  gracious,  long-suffering, 
and  abundant  in  goodness  and  truth./ 

Q.   8.  Are  there  more  Gods  than  one? 

A.  There  is  but  One  only,  the  living  and  true 
God./- 

I  i  Kings  viii.  27.  But  will  God  indeed  dwell  on  the  earth?  Ee- 
hold,  the  heaven,  and  the  heaven  of  heavens  cannot  contain  thee, 
how  much  less  this  house  that  I  have  builded? 

c  Psal.  exxxix.  1  —  1  3.  O  Lord,  thou  hast  searched  me,  and  known 
me:  thou  knowest  my  down-sitting,  and  mine  up-rising,  thou  un- 
derstandest  my  thoughts  afar  off,  &c.  Whither  shall  I  go  from  thy 
Spirit?  or  whither  shall  I  flee  from  thy  presence?  &c. 

d  Rev.  iv.  8.  And  the  four  beasts  had  each  of  them  six  wings 
about  him,  and  they  were  full  of  eyes  within;  and  they  rest  not  day 
and  night,  saying,  Holy,  holy,  holy,  Lord  God  Almighty,  which 
was,  and  is,  and  is  to  come. 

e  Heb.  iv.  13.  Neither  is  there  any  creature  that  is  not  manifest 
in  his  sight;  but  all  things  are  naked,  and  opened  unto  the  eves  of 
him  with  whom  we  have  to  do.  Psal.  cxlvii.  5.  Great  is  our  Lord, 
and  of  great  power:  his  understanding  is  infinite. 

/"Rom.  xvi.  27.  To  God  only  wise,  be  glory  through  JesuisChrist 
for  ever.     Amen. 

g  Isa.  vi.  3.  And  one  cried  unto  another,  and  said,  Holy,  holy, 
holy  is  the  Lord  of  hosts,  the  whole  earth  is  full  of  his  glory.  Rev. 
xv.  4.  Who  shall  not  fear  thee,  O  Lord,  and  glorify  thy  name  ?  for 
thou  only  art  holy  :  for  all  nations  shall  come  and  worship  before 
thee  :  for  thy  judgments  are  made  manifest. 

h  Dent,  xxxii.  4.  He  is  the  Rock,  his  work  is  perfect;  for  all  his 
ways  are  judgment:  a  God  of  truth,  and  without  iniquity,  just  and 
right  is  he. 

i  Exod.  xxxiv.  6.  And  the  Lord  passed  by  before  him,  and  pro- 
claimed, The  Lord,  The  Lord  God,  merciful  and  gracious,  long- 
BufFering,  and  abundant  in  goodness  and  truth. 

8.  k  Deut.  vi.  4.  Hear,  O  Israel,  The  Lord  our  God  is  one  Lord. 
1  Cor.  viii.  4.  As  concerning  therefore  the  eating  of  those  things 
that  are  offered  in  sacrifice  unto  idols,  we  know  that  an  idol  is  no- 
thing in  the  world,  and  that  there  is  none  other  God  but  one.  v.  6. 
But  to  us  there  is  but  one  God  the  Father,  ol  whom  are  all  things, 
and  we  in  him;  and  one  Lord  Jesus  Christ,  by  whom  are  all  tilings, 
and  we  by  him.  [er.  x.  10.  Hut  the  Lord  is  the  true  God,  he  is  the 
living  God,  and  an  everlasting  King:  at  his  wrath  the  earth  shall 
le,  and  the  nations  shall  not  be  able  to  abide  his  indignation. 


The  Larger  CatechisM.  1 83 

Q.  9.  How  many  persons  are  there  in  the  God- 
head? 

A.  There  be  three  persons  in  the  Godhead,  the 
Father,  the  Son,  and  the  Holy  Ghost ;  and  these 
three  are  one  true,  eternal  God,  the  same  in  sub- 
stance, equal  in  power  and  glory ;  although  dis- 
tinguished by  their  personal  properties./ 

Q.  10.  What  are  the  personal  properties  of  the 
three  persons  in  the  Godhead? 

A.  It  is  proper  to  the  Father  to  beget  the  Son,w 
and  to  the  Son  to  be  begotten  of  the  Father,;*  and 
to  the  Holy  Ghost  to  proceed  from  the  Father 
and  the  Son  from  all  eternity.o 


9.  /  1  John  v.  7.  For  there  are  three  that  bear  record  in  heaven, 
the  Father,  the  Word,  and  the  Holy  Ghost :  and  these  three  are  one. 
Mat.  iii.  16.  And  Jesus,  when  he  was  baptized,  went  up  straight- 
way out  of  the  water:  and  lo,  the  heavens  were  opened  unto  him, 
and  he  saw  the  Spirit  of  God  descending  like  a  dove,  and  lighting 
upon  him.  v.  17.  And  lo,  a  voice  from  heaven,  saying,  This  is  my 
beloved  Son,  in  whom  lam  well  pleased.  Mat._  xxviii.  19.  Go  ye 
therefore  and  teach  all  nations,  baptizing  them  in  the  name  of  the 
Father,  and  of  the  Son,  and  of  the  Holy  Ghost.  2  Cor.  xiii.  14. 
The  grace  of  the  Lord  Jesus  Christ,  and  the  love  of  God,  and  the 
communion  of  the  Holy  Ghost,  be  with  you  all.  Amen.  John  x.  30. 
I  and  my  Father  are  one. 

10.  m  Heb.  i.  5.  For  unto  which  of  the  angels  said  he  at  any  time, 
Thou  art  my  Son,  this  day  have  I  begotten  thee  ?  And  again,  I  will 
be  to  him  a  Father,  and  he  shall  be  to  me  a  Son.  v.  6.  And  again, 
when  he  bringeth  in  the  first  begotten  into  the  world,  he  saith,  And 
let  all  the  angels  of  God  worship  him.  v.  8.  But  unto  the  Son  he 
saith,  Thy  throne,  O  God,  is  for  ever  and  ever;  a  sceptre  of  righte- 
ousness is  the  sceptre  of  thy  kingdom. 

n  John  i.  14.  And  the  Word  was  made  flesh,  and  dwelt  among  us, 
(and  we  beheld  his  glory,  the  glory  as  of  the  only  begotten  of  the  Fa- 
ther) full  of  grace  and  truth,  v.  18.  No  man  hath  seen  God  at  any 
time;  the  only  begotten  Son,  which  is  in  the  bosom  of  the  Father, 
he  hath  declared  him. 

0  John  xv.  26.  But  when  the  Comforter  is  come,  whom  I  will 
send  unto  you  from  the  Father,  even  the  Spirit  of  truth,  which  pro- 
ceeded from  the  Father,  he  shall  testify  of  me.  Gal.  iv.  6.  And  be- 
cause ye  are  sons,  God  hat'.,  sent  forth  the  Spine  of  hii  Sou  into  your 
hearts,  crying,  Abba,  Father. 


184  The  Larger  CatechhnU 

Q^  1 1 .  How  doth  it  appear  that  the  Son  and  the 
Holy  Ghost  are  God  equal  with  the  Father  t 

A.  The  scriptures  manifest,  that  the  Son  and 
the  Holy  Ghost  are  God,  equal  with  the  Father, 
ascribing  unto  them  such  names,/)  attributes, q 
works,r  and  worship, j  as  are  proper  to  God  only. 

1  i.Ji  Isa.  vi.  3.  And  one  cried  unto  another,  and  said,  Holy,  holy, 
holy  is  the  Lord  of  hosts,  the  whole  earth  i^  full  of  his  glory,  v.  5. 
Then  said  I,  Wo  is  me,  for  I  am  undone,  because  I  am  a  man  of 
unclean  lips,  and  I  dwell  in  the  midst  ol  a  people  of  unclean  lips:  for 
mine  eyes  have  seen  the  King,  the  Lord  of  hosts,  v.  8.  Also  I  heard 
the  voice  of  the  Lord,  saying,  Whom  shall  I  send,  and  who  will  go 
for  us?  Then  said  I,  Here  am  I,  send  me.  Compared  with  John 
xii.  41.  These  things  said  Esaias,  when  he  saw  his  glory,  and  spake 
of  him.  And  with  Acts  xxviii.  25.  And  when  they  agreed  not 
among  themselves,  they  departed,  alter  that  Paul  had  spoken  one 
word,  Well  spake  the  Holy  Ghost  by  Esaias  the  prophet,  unto  our 
fathers.  1  John  v.  20.  And  we  know  that  the  Son  of  God  is  come, 
and  hath  given  us  an  understanding  that  we  may  know  him  that  is 
true:  and  we  are  in  him  that  is  true,  even  in  his  Son  Jesus  Christ. 
This  is  the  true  God,  and  eternal  life.  Acts  v.  3.  But  Peter  said, 
Ananias,  why  hath  Satan  filled  thine  heart  to  lie  to  the  Holy  Ghost, 
and  to  keep  back  part  of  the  price  of  the  land?  v.  4.  Whiles  it  re- 
mained, was  it  not  thine  own?  and  after  it  was  sold,  was  it  not  in 
thine  own  power?  why  hast  thou  conceived  this  thing  in  thine  heart > 
thou  hast  not  lied  unto  men,  but  unto  God. 

q  John  i.  1.  In  the  beginning  was  the  Word,  and  the  Word  oral 
with  God,  and  the  Word  was  God.  Isa.  ix.  6.  For  unto  us  a  child 
is  born,  unto  us  a  Son  is  given,  and  the  government  shall  be  upon 
his  shoulder:  and  his  name  shall  be  called  Wonderful,  Counsellor, 
The  mighty  God,  The  everlasting  Father,  The  Prince  of  Peace. 
John  ii.  24.  But  Jesus  did  not  commit  himself  unto  them,  because 
he  knew  all  men:  v.  25.  And  needed  not  that  any  should  testify  of 
man:  for  he  knew  what  was  in  man.  1  Cor.  ii.  10.  But  God  hath 
revealed  them  unto  us  by  his  Spirit :  for  the  Spirit  searched)  all  things, 
yea  the  deep  things  of  God.  v.  11.  For  what  man  knoweth  the 
things  of  a  man,  save  the  spirit  of  man  which  is  in  him?  even  so  the 
things  of  God  knoweth  no  man,  but  the  Spirit  of  God. 

r  Col.  i.  j 6.  For  by  him  were  all  things  created  that  are  in  heaven, 
and  that  are  in  earth,  visible  and  invisible,  whether  they  be  thrones, 
or  dominions,  or  principalities,  or  powers:  all  things  were  created 
by  him,  and  for  him.  Gen.  i.  2.  And  the  earth  was  without  form 
and  void,  and  darkness  was  upon  the  face  of  the  deep:  and  the 
Spirit  of  (rod  moved  upon  the  face  of  the  waters. 

s  Mat.   xxviii.   19.  Go  ye   therefore  and  teach  all  nations,  bap^ 


The  Larger  Catechism.  185 

Q.    12.  What  are  the  decrees  of  God? 

A.  God's  decrees  are  the  wise,  free,  and  holy 
acts  of  the  counsel  of  his  will,/  whereby,  from 
all  eternity,  he  hath,  for  his  own  glory,  unchange- 
ably fore-ordained  whatsoever  comes  to  pass  in 
time,?;  especially  concerning  angels  and  men. 

Q.  1 3.  What  hath  God  especially  decreed ' concern* 
ing  angels  and  men  ? 

A,  God,  by  an  eternal  and  immutable  decree* 
out  of  his  mere  love,  for  the  praise  of  his  glorious 
grace  to  be  manifested  in  due  time,  hath  elected 
some  angels  to  glory  ;w  and,  in  Christ,  hath 
chosen  some  men  to  eternal  life,  and  the  means 
thereof  :x    and  also,  according   to  his  sovereign 

tizing  them  in  the  name  of  the  Father,  and  of  the  Son,  and  of  the 
Holy  Ghost.  2  Cor.  xiii.  14.  The  grace  of  the  Lord  Jesus  Christ, 
and  the  love  of  God,  and  the  communion  of  the  Holy  Ghost,  be 
with  you  all.     Amen. 

12.  t  Eph.  i.  11.  In  whom  also  we  have  obtained  an  inheritance, 
being  predestinated  according  to  the  purpose  of  him  who  workethall 
things  after  the  counsel  of  his  own  will.  Rom.  xi.  33.  O  the  depth, 
of  the  riches  both  of  the  wisdom  and  knowledge  or  God!  how  un- 
searchable are  his  judgments,  and  his  ways  past  finding  out?  Rom. 
ix.  14.  What  shall  we  say  then?  Is  there  unrighteousness  with 
God?  God  forbid*  v.  15,  For  he  saith  to  Moses,  I  will  have 
mercy  on  whom  I  will  have  mercy,  and  I  will  have  compassion  on 
whom  I  will  have  compassion,  v.  18.  Therefore  hath  he  mercy  on 
whom  he  will  have  mercy,  and  whom  he  will,  he  hardeneth. 

v  Eph.  i.  4.  According  as  he  hath  chosen  us  in  him,  before  the 
foundation  of  the  world,  that  we  should  be  holy,  and  without  blame 
before  him  in  love,  v.-'ji.  In  whom  also  we  have  obtained  an  in- 
heritance, being  predestinated  according  to  the  purpose  of  him  who 
worketh  all  things  after  the  counsel  of  his  own  will.  Rom.  ix.  22. 
What  it  God,  willing  to  shew  his  wrath,  and  to  make  his  power 
known,  endured,  with  much  long-suffering,  the  vessels  of  wrath  fitted 
to  destruction:  v.  23.  And  that  he  might  make  known  the  riches  of 
his  glory  on  the  vessels  of  mercy,  which  he  had  afore  prepared  unto 
glory?  "  Psal.  xxxiii.  n.  The  counsel  of  the  Lord  standeth  forever, 
the  thoughts  of  his.  heart  to  all  generations. 

1  3.  10  1  Tim.  v.  21.  I  charge  thee  before  God,  and  the  Lord  Tesus 
Christ,  and  the  elect  angels,  that  thou  observe  these  things  without 
preferring  one  before  another,  doing  nothing  by  partiality. 

x  Eph.  i.  a.  According  as  he  hath  chosen  us  in  him,  before  the 

2A 


x86  "The  Larger  Catechism. 

power,  and  the  unsearchable  counsel  of  his  own 
will  (whereby  he  extendeth  or  withholdeth  fa- 
vour as  he  pleaseth),  hath  passed  by,  and  fore- 
ordained the  rest  to  dishonour  and  wrath,  to  be 
for  their  sin  inflicled,  to  the  praise  of  the  glory  of 
his  justice.^ 

Q.   14.  How  doth  God  execute  his  decrees? 

A.  God  executeth  his  decrees  in  the  works  of 
creation  and  providence,  according  to  his  infalli- 
ble foreknowledge  and  the  free  and  immutable 
counsel  of  his  own  will.2, 

foundation  of  the  world,  that  we  should  be  holy,  and  without  blame 
before  him  in  love:  v.  5.  Having  predestinated  us  unto  the  adoption 
of  children  by  Jesus  Christ  to  himself,  according  to  the  good  plea- 
sure ct  his  will.  v.  6.  To  the  praise  of  the  glory  of  his  grace,  where- 
in he  hath  made  us  accepted  in  the  beloved,  2  Thes.  ii.  13.  But  we 
are  bound  to  give  thanks  alway  to  God  for  you,  brethren,  beloved  of 
the  Lord,  because  God  hath  from  the  beginning  chosen  you  to  sal- 
vation, through  san&ification  of  the  Spirit,  and  belief  of  the  truth: 
v.  14.  Whereunto  he  called  you  by  our  gospel,  to  the  obtaining  of 
the  glory  of  our  Lord  Jesus  Christ. 

y  Rom.  ix.  1 7.  For  the  scripture  saith  unto  Pharaoh,  Even  for  this 
same  purpose  have  I  raised  thee  up,  that  I  might  shew  my  power  in 
thee,  and  that  my  name  might  be  declared  throughout  all  the  earth. 
v.  18.  Therefore  hath  he  mercy  on  whom  he  will  have  mercy,  and 
whom  he  will,  he  hardeneth.  v.  2.1.  Hath  not  the  potter  power 
over  the  clay,  of  the  same  lump  to  make  one  vessel  unto  honour,  and 
another  unto  dishonour?  v.  22.  What  if  God,  willing  to  shew  his 
wrath,  and  to  make  his  power  known,  endured,  with  much  long- 
suffering,  the  vessels  of  wrath  fitted  to  destruction?  Mat.  xi.  2; 
At  that  time  Jesus  answered  and  said,  I  thank  thee,  O  Father,  Lord 
of  heaven  and  earth,  because  thou  hast  hid  these  things  from  the 
wise  and  prudent,  and  hast  revealed  them  unto  babes-  v.  26.  Even 
so,  Father,  for  so  it  seemed  good  in  thy  sight.  2  Tim.  ii.  20.  But 
in  a  great  house  there  are  not  only  vessels  of  gold,  and  of  silver,  but 
also  of  wood,  and  of  earth;  and  some  to  honour,  and  some  to  dis- 
honour. Jude  4.  For  there  are  certain  men  crept  in  unawares,  who 
were  before  of  old  ordained  to  this  condemnation,  ungodly  men, 
turning  the  grace  of  our  God  into  lasciviousness,  and  denying  the 
only  Lord  God,  and  our  Lord  Jesus  Christ.  1  Pet  ii.  8.  And  a 
stone  of  stumbling,  and  a  roi  k  of  offence,  even  to  them  which  stum- 
ble at  the  word,  being  disobedient,  whereunto  also  they  were  ap- 
pointed. 

14.  z  Eph.  i.  11,  In  whom  also  we  have  obtained  an  inheritance, 


tfhe  Larger  Catechism.  i%j 

Q.   1 5.  What  is  the  work  of  creation  f 

A.  The  work  of  creation  is  that  wherein  God 
did  ill  the  beginning,  by  the  word  of  his  power, 
make  of  nothing  the  world,  and  all  things  there- 
in, for  himself,  within  the  space  of  six  days,  and 
all  very  good.a 

Q^  16.  How  did  God  create  angels? 

A.  God  created  all  the  angels,^  spirits,?  im- 
mortal,^/ holy,?  excelling  in  knowledge/  mighty 
in  power,g  to  execute  his  commandments,  and 
to  praise  his  name,/6  yet  subject  to  change./ 

being  predestinated  according  to  the  purpose  of  him  who  worketh  all 
things  after  the  counsel  of  his  own  will. 

15.  a  (Gen.  i.  chapter.)  Heb.  xi.  3.  Through  faith  we  under- 
stand that  the  worlds  were  framed  by  the  word  of  God,  so  that  things 
which  are  seen  were  not  made  of  things  which  do  appear.  Prov.  xvi. 
4.  The  Lord  hath  made  all  things  for  himself;  yea,  even  the  wicked 
for  the  day  of  evil. 

16.  b  Col.  i.  16.  For  by  him  were  all  things  created  that  are  in 
heaven,  and  that  are  in  earth,  visible  and  invisible,  whether  they  be 
thrones,  or  dominions,  or  principalities,  or  powers:  all  things  were 
created  by  him,  and  for  him. 

c  Psal.  civ.  4.  Who  maketh  his  angels  spirits;  his  ministers  a 
darning  fire. 

d  Mat.  xxii.  30.  For  in  the  resurrection  they  neither  marry,  nor 
are  given  in  marriage;  but  are  as  the  angels  of  God  in  heaven. 

e  Mat.  xxv.  3 1 .  When  the  Son  of  man  shall  come  in  his  glory,  and 
all  the  holy  angels  with  him,  then  shall  he  sit  upon  the  throne  of  his 
glory. 

f%  Sam.  xiv.  1 7.  Then  thine  handmaid  said,  The  word  of  my 
Lord  the  King  shall  now  be  comfortable:  for  as  an  angel  of  God,  so 
is  my  Lord  the  King  to  discern  good  and  bad:  therefore  the  Lord 
thy  God  will  be  with  thee.  Mat.  xxiv.  36.  But  of  that  day  and  hour 
knoweth  no  man,  no,  not  the  angels  of  heaven,  but  my  Father  only. 

g  3.  Thess.  i.  7.  And  to  you  who  are  troubled,  rest  with  us,  when 
the  Lord  Jesus  shall  be  revealed  from  heaven,  with  his  mighty  angels. 

//  Psal.  ciii.  20.  Bless  the  Lord,  ye  his  angels,  that  excel  in  strength, 
that  do  his  commandments,  hearkening  unto  the  voice  of  his  word, 
v.  21.  Bless  ye  the  Lord,  all  ye  his  hosts,  ye  ministers  of  his  that  do 
his  pleasure. 

i  a  Pet.  ii.  4.  For  if  God  spared  not  the  angels  that  sinned,  but 
cast  them  down  to  hell,  and  delivered  them  into  chains  of  darkness, 
to  be  reserved  unto  judgment. 


*&S  I'he  Larger  Catechism. 

Q^  i  /•  How  did  God  create  man  ? 

A.  After  God  had  made  all  other  creatures,  he 
created  man  male  and  female  ;/'  formed  the  body 
of  the  man  of  the  dust  of  the  ground,/  and  the 
woman  of  the  rib  of  the  man  ;m  endued  them  with 
living,  reasonable,  and  immortal  souls ;«  made 
them  after  his  own  image, o  in  knowledge,/)  righ- 
teousness and  holiness  ;<7  having  the  law  of  God 
written  in  their  hearts,;-  and  power  to  fulfil  it,j  with 
dominion  over  the  creatures ;/  yet  subjecl  to  fall/u 

17.  k  Gen.  i.  27.  So  God  created  man  in  his  own  image,  in  the 
image  of  God  created  he  him :  male  and  female  created  he  them. 

/  Gen.  ii.  7.  And  the  Lord  God  formed  man  of  the  dust  of  the 
ground,  and  breathed  into  his  nostrils  the  breath  of  life. 

?n  Gen.  ii.  22.  And  the  rib,  which  the  Lord  God  had  taken  from 
man,  made  he  a  woman,  and  brought  her  unto  the  man. 

n  Gen.  ii.  7.  And  the  Lord  God  formed  man  of  the  dust  of  the 
ground,  and  breathed  into  his  nostrils  the  breath  of  life:  and  man  be- 
came a  living  soul.  C0mparedwithJ0bxxxv.11.  Who  teacheth  us 
more  than  the  beasts  of  the  earth,  and  maketh  us  wiser  than  the  fowls 
of  heaven.  And  with  Eccl.  xii.  7.  Then  shall  the  dust  return  to  the 
earth  as  it  was:  and  the  spirit  shall  return  unto  God  who  gave  it. 
And  with  Mat.  x.  28.  And  fear  not  them  which  kill  the  body, 
but  are  not  able  to  kill  the  soul;  b'.'.t  rather  fear  him  which  is  able  to 
destroy  both  soul  and  body  in  hell.  And  with  Luke  xxiii.  43.  And 
Jesus  said  unto  him,  Verily  I  say  unto  khftJ,  To-day  shalt  tnou  be 
with  me  in  pan,- 

0  Gen.  i.  27.  So  God  created  man  in  his  own  image,  in  the  image 
of  God  created  he  him:  male  and  female  created  he  them. 

/;  Col.  iii.  10.  And  have  put  on  the  new  man,  which  is  renewed 
in  know  ledge,  after  the  image  of  him  that  created  him. 

q  Eph.  iv.  24.  And  that  ye  put  on  the  new  man,  which  after  Cod 
is  created  in  righteousness  and  true  holiness. 

r  Rom.  ii.  14.  For  when  the  Gentiles  who  have  not  the  law,  do 
In  nature  the  things  contahnd  in  th  •  law,  tbe$e  having  not  the  law, 
arc-  a  law  unto  themselyes;  v.  1  5.  Which  .hew  the  work  of  the  law 
written  in  their  hearts,  their  conscience  also  bearing  witness,  and 
their  thoughts  the  mean  while  r.ccusing,  or  ehc  excusing  one  another. 
s  Eccl.  yii.  29.  Lo,  this  only  have  1  found,  That  God  hath  made 
man  upright;   but  they  have  sought  out  many  inventions. 

/  Gin.  i.  2S.  And  God  blessed  them,  and  God  said  unto  them, 
Be  fruitful,  and  multiply,  and  replenish  the  earth,  and  subdue  it: 
and  have  dominion  over  the  fish  <t  tli<-  sea,  and  over  the  fowl  ot  the 
ajr,  and  over  every  living  thing  that  n.ovith.  upon  the  earth. 

v  Gen.  iii.  6.  Ami  when  the  woman  saw  that  the  tree  was  good 


cf he  Larger  Catechism.  189. 

n     18.  What  are  God's  works  of  providence  ? 

AT  God's  works  of  providence  are  his  most 
holy^w  wise,*  and  powerful  preservings  and  go- 
verning all  his  creatures ;%  ordering  them,  and 
all  then  actions,*  to  his  own  glory.J 

(X    19.  What  is  God's  providence  towards  the 

atipels  ? 

A.  God,  by  his  providence,  permitted  some  of 
the  angels,  wilfully  and  irrecoverably,  to  fall  in- 
to sin  and  damnation,*:  limiting  and  ordering  that, 

for  food,  and  that  it  was  pleasant  to  the  eyes,  and  a  tree  to  be  desired 
to  make  one  wise;  she  took  of  the  fruit  thereof,  and  did  eat,  and 
c-ave  also  unto  her  husband  with  her;  and  he  did  eat.  Eccl.  vu.  29. 
to,  this  only  have  I  found,  that  God  hath  made  man  upright;  but 
they  have  sought  out  many  inventions. 

'    18.  w  Psal.  cxlv.  17.    The  Lord  is  righteous  in  all  his  ways,  and 
holy  in  all  his  works.  .  . 

*  Psal  civ.  24.  O  Lord,  how  manifold  are  thy  works!  in  wisdom 
hast  thou  made  them  all:  the  earth  is  full  of  thy  riches.  Isa.  xxviu. 
£9.  This  also  cometh  forth  from  the  Lord  01  hosts,  which  is  won- 
derful in  counsel,  and  excellent  in  working. 

y  Heb.  i.  3.  Who  being  the  brightness  of  his  glory,  and  the  ex- 
press image  of  his  person,  and  upholding  all  things  by  the  word  of 
his  power,  when  he  had  by  himself  purged  our  sins,  sat  down  on 
the  right  hand  of  the  Majesty  on  high.  _ 

*  Psal.  ciii.  19.  The  Lord  hath  prepared  his  throne  in  the  heavens; 
and  his  kingdom  ruleth  over  all.  .     ,  .      ,        , 

a  Mat.  x.  29.  Are  not  two  sparrows  sold  for  a  farthing?  and  one 
of  them  shall  not  fall  on  the  ground  without  your  Father,  v.  30.  But 
the  very  hairs  of  your  head  are  all  numbered,  v.  31.  Fear  ye  not, 
therefore,  ye  are  of  more  value  than  many  sparrows.  Gen.  xlv.  y. 
And  God  sent  me  before  you,  to  preserve  you  a  posterity  in  the 
earth,  and  to  save  your  lives  by  a  great  deliverance. 

b  Rom.  xi.  36.  For  of  him,  and  through  him,  and  to  him,  are  all 
things:  to  whom  be  glory  forever.  Amen.  Isa.  lxiii.  14.  As  a  beast 
Toeth  down  into  the  valley,  the  Spirit  of  the  Lord  caused  him  to  rest; 
so  didst  thou  lead  thy  people,  to  make  thyself  a  glorious  name. 

19.  c  Tude  6.  And  the  angels  which  kept  not  their  first  estate,  but 
left  their  own  habitation,  he  hath  reserved  in  everlasting  chains  un- 
der darkness,  unto  the  judgment  of  the  great  day.  2  Pet.  11.  4.  For 
if  God  spared  not  the  angels  that  sinned,  but  cast  them  down  to  hell, 
and  delivered  them  into  chains  of  darkness,  to  be  reserved  unto 
judgment.  Heb.  ii.  16.  For  verily  he  took  not  on  him  the  nature 
of  angels,  but  he  took  on  him  the  seed  of  Abraham.     John  vni.  44- 


I  go  7*he  Larger  Catechism. 

and  all  their  sins,  to  his  own  glory  ;d  and  esta- 
blished the  rest  in  holiness  and  happiness,?  employ- 
ing them  all,/"  at  his  pleasure,  in  the  administra- 
tions of  his  power,  mercy,  and  justice.^ 

Q^20.  What  was  the  providence  of  God  toward 
man  in  the  estate  in  which  he  was  created? 

A.  The  providence  of  God  toward  man  in  the 
estate  in  which  he  was  created,  was,  the  placing 
him  in  paradise,  appointing  him  to  dress  it,  giv- 
ing him  liberty  to  eat  of  the  fruit  of  the  earth  \h 
putting  the  creatures  under  his  dominion,/  and 

Ye  are  of  your  father  the  devil,  and  the  lusts  of  your  father  ye  will 
do:  he  was  a  murderer  from  the  beginning,  and  abode  not  in  the 
truth,  because  there  is  no  truth  in  him.  When  he  speaketh  a  lie, 
he  speaketh  of  his  own :   for  he  is  a  liar,  and  the  father  of  it. 

d  Job  i.  12.  And  the  Lord  said  unto  Satan,  Behold,  all  that  he 
hath  is  in  thy  power,  only  upon  himself  put  not  forth  thine  hand. 
So  Satan  went  forth  from  the  presence  of  the  Lord.  Mat.  viii.  31. 
So  the  devils  besought  him,  saying,  If  thou  catt  us  out,  suffer  us  to 
go  away  into  the  herd  of  swine. 

e  1  Tim.  v.  21.  I  charge  thee  before  God,  and  the  Lord  Jesus 
Christ,  and  the  elecl:  angels,  that  thou  observe  these  things  without 
preferring  one  before  another,  doing  nothing  by  partiality.  Mark 
viii.  38.  Whosoever  therefore  shall  be  ashamed  of  me,  and  of  my 
words,  in  this  adulterous  and  sinful  generation,  of  him  also  shall  the 
Son  of  man  be  ashamed,  when  he  cometh  in  the  glory  of  his  Father, 
with  the  holy  angels.  Heb.  xii.  22.  But  ye  are  come  unto  mount 
Sion,  and  unto  the  city  of  the  living  God,  the  heavenly  Jerusalem, 
and  to  an  innumerable  company  of  angels. 

/Psal.  civ.  4.  Who  maketh  his  angels  spirits:  his  ministers  R 
flaming  fire. 

g  2  Kings  xix.  3,.  And  it  came  to  pass  that  night,  that  the  angel 
of  the  Lord  went  out  and  smote  in  the  camp  of  the  Assyrians,  an 
hundred  fourscore  and  five  thousand:  and  when  they  arose  early 
in  the  morning,  behold,  they  were  all  dead  corpses.  Heb.  i.  14. 
Are  they  not  all  ministring  spirits,  sent  forth  to  minister  for  them 
who  shall  be  heirs  of  salvation? 

20.  /;  Gen.  ii.  8.  And  the  Lord  God  planted  a  garden  eastward  in 
Eden  ;  and  there  he  put  the  man  whom  he  had  formed,  v.  15.  And 
the  Lord  God  took  the  man,  and  put  him  into  the  garden  of  Eden, 
to  dress  it,  and  to  keep  it.  v.  16.  And  the  Lord  God  commanded 
the  man,  saying,  Of  everv  tree  of  the  garden  thou  mayest  freely  eat. 

i  Gen.  i.  28.  And  God  blessed  thun,  arid  God  said  unto  then), 


tfhe  Larger  Catechism,  i q  i 

Ordaining  marriage  for  his  help  \k  affording  him 
communion  with  himself;/  instituting  the  Sab- 
bath ;m  entering  into  a  covenant  of  life  with  him, 
upon  condition  of  personal,  perfect,  and  perpe- 
tual obedience,?*  of  which  the  tree  of  life  was  a 
pledge  ;o  and  forbidding  to  eat  of  the  tree  of  the 
knowledge  of  good  and  evil,  upon  pain  of  death./ 
Q.  2 1 .  Did  man  continue  in  that  estate  wherein 
God  at  first  created  him  ? 

Be  fruitful  and  multiply,  and  replenish  the  earth,  and  subdue  it:  and 
have  dominion  over  the  fish  of  the  sea,  and  over  the  fowl  of  the 
air,  and  over  every  living  thing  that  moveth  upon  the  earth. 

k  Gen.  ii.  18.  And  the  Lord  God  said,  It  is  not  good  that  the  man 
should  be  alone :  I  will  make  him  an  help  meet  for  him. 

I  Gen.  i.  26.  And  God  said,  Let  us  make  man  in  our  image, 
after  our  likeness :  and  let  them  have  dominion  over  the  fish  of  the 
sea,  and  over  the  fowl  of  the  air,  and  over  the  cattle,  and  over  all  the 
earth,  and  over  every  creeping  thing  that  creepeth  upon  the  earth. 
v.  27.  So  God  created  man  in  his  own  image,  in  the  image  of  God 
created  he  him  :  male  and  female  created  he  them.  v.  28.  And 
God  blessed  them,  and  God  said  unto  them,  be  fruitful  and  multiply, 
and  replenish  the  earth,  and  subdue  it :  and  have  dominion  over  the 
fish  of  the  sea,  and  over  the  fowl  of  the  air,  and  over  every  living 
thing  that  moveth  upon  the  earth,  v.  29.  And  God  said,  Behold,  I 
have  given  you  every  herb  bearing  seed,  which  is  upon  the  face  of 
all  the  earth,  and  every  tree  in  the  which  is  the  fruit  of  a  tree  yield- 
ing seed :  to  you  it  shall  be  for  meat.  Gen.  iii.  8.  And  they  heard 
the  voice  of  the  Lord  God  walking  in  the  garden  in  the  cool  of  the 
day:  and  Adam  and  his  wife  hid  themselves  from  the  presence  of 
the  Lord  God  amongst  the  trees  of  the  garden. 

m  Gen.  ii.  3.  And  God  blessed  the  seventh  day,  and  sanctified  it: 
because  that  in  it  he  had  rested  from  all  his  work,  which  God  created 
and  made. 

n  Gal.  iii.  12.  And  the  law  is  not  of  faith:  but,  The  man  that 
doth  them  shall  live  in  them.  Rom.  x.  5.  For  Moses  describeth  the 
righteousness  which  is  of  the  law,  That  the  man  which  doth  these 
things,  shall  live  by  them. 

0  Gen.  ii.  9.  And  out  of  the  ground  made  the  Lord  God  to  otow 
every  tree  that  is  pleasant  to  the  sight,  and  good  for  food  :  the  tree 
of  life  also  in  the  midst  of  the  garden,  and  the  tree  of  knowledge  of 
good  and  evil. 

Ji  Gen.  ii.  1 7.  But  of  the  tree  of  the  knowledge  of  good  and  eviL 
thou  shalt  not  eat  of  it :  for  iu  the  day  that  thou  eatest  thereof,  thou, 
shalt  surely  die. 


102  'The  Larger  Catechu  i 

A.  Our  first  parents  being  left  to  the  freedom 
of  their  own  will,  through  the  temptation  of 
Satan,  transgressed  the  commandment  of  God,  in 
eating  the  forbidden  fruit  ;  and  thereby  fell  from 
the  estate  of  iimocency  wherein  they  were  creat- 
ed, q 

Q^  22.  Did  all  mankind  fall  in  that  first  trans- 
gression  f 

A.  The  covenant  being  made  with  Adam  as  a 
public  person,  not  for  himself  only,  but  for  his 
posterity ;  all  mankind  descending  from  him  by 
ordinary  generation,;-  sinned  in  him,  and  fell 
with  him,  in  that  first  transgressions 

Bl.  n  Gen.  iii.  6.  And  when  the  woman  saw  that  the  tree  was 
good  for  food,  and  that  it  was  pleasant  to  the  eyes,  and  a  tree  to  be 
desired  to  make  one  wise;  she  took  of  the  fruit  thereof,  and  did  eat, 
and  gave  also  unto  her  husband  with  her;  and  he  did  eat.  v.  7.  And 
the  eyes  of  them  both  were  opened,  and  they  knew  that  they  were 
naked ;  and  they  sewed  fig-leaves  together,  and  made  themselves 
aprons,  v.  8.  And  thev  heard  the  voice  of  the  Lord  God  walking 
in  the  garden  in  the  cool  of  the  day ;  and  Adam  and  his  wife  hid 
themselves  from  the  presence  of  the  Lord  God,  amongst  the  trees  of 
the  garden,  v.  1  3.  And  the  Lord  God  said  unto  the  woman,  What 
is  this  that  thou  hast  done?  And  the  woman  said,  The  serpent  be- 
guiled me,  and  I  did  eat.  Eccl.  vii.  29.  Lo,  this  only  have  I  found, 
that  God  made  man  upright;  but  they  have  sought  out  many  inven- 
tions. 2  Cor.  xi.  3.  But  I  fear  lest  by  any  means,  as  the  serpent 
beguiled  Eve  through  his  subtilty,  so  your  minds  should  be  corrupted 
from  the  simplicity  that  is  in  Christ. 

22.  r  Acts  xvih  26.  And  hath  made  of  one  blood  all  nations  of 
men  for  to  dwell  on  all  the  face  of  the  earth,  and  hath  determined 
the  times  before  appointed,  and  1 1 1  *  -  bounds  of  their  habitation. 

j  Gen.  ii.  16.  And  the  Lord  God  commanded  the  man,  saying, 
O;  every  tree  of  the  garden  thou  mayest  freely  eat :  v.  1  7.  But  of  the 
tr<  c  of  the  knowledge  of  good  and  evil,  thou  shah  not  eat  of  it :  for 
in  the  day  that  thou  eatest  thereof,  thou  shalt  surely  die.  (Com- 
pared with  Rom.  v.  12 — 20.)  Wherefore,  as  bj  one  nan  sin  entered 
into  the  world,  and  death  by  sin  ;  and  so  death  passed  upon  all  men, 
for  that  all  have  sinned,     v.  1  v  For  it  through  the  offence  of  one, 

many  be  dead;  much  more v.  16. For  the  judgment  was  by 

one  to  condemnation; — v.  17.  For  ii  by  one  ma  e,  death 

reigned  by  one;  much  more v.  iS.  TI.  1  \  toe  offence 

of  one,  judgment  came  upon  ail  men  to  condemnation]  even  so, — 


Tthe  Larger  Catechism,  193 

Q.  23.  Into  what  estate  did  the  fall  bring  man- 
kindf 

A.  The  fall  brought  mankind  into  an  estate  of 
sin  and  misery./ 

Q.  24.  What  is  sin? 

A.  Sin  is  any  want  of  conformity  unto,  or 
transgression  of  any  law  of  God,  given  as  a  rule 
to  the  reasonable  creature.?; 

'     Q.  25.  Wherein  consisteth  the  sinfulness  of  that 
estate  where  into  man  fell  f 

A.  The  sinfulness  of  that  estate  whereinto  man 
fell,  consisteth  in  the  guilt  of  Adam's  first  sin,w 
the  want  of  that  righteousness  wherein  he  was 
created,  and  the  corruption  of  his  nature,  where- 
by he  is  utterly  indisposed,  disabled,  and  made 
opposite  unto  all  that  is  spiritually  good,  and 
wholly  inclined  to  all  evil,  and  that  continually;^ 


v.  19.  For  as  by  one  man's  disobedience  many  were  made  sinners, 

so  by  the  obedience And  with  1  Cor.  xv.  ai.  For  since  by  man 

tame  death,  by  man  came  also  the  resurrection  of  the  dead.     v.  22. 
For  as  in  Adam  all  die,  even  so  in  Christ  shall  all  be  made  alive. 

25.  /  Rom.  v.  12.  Wherefore,  as  by  one  man  sin  entered  into  the 
world,  and  death  by  sin ;  and  so  death  passed  upon  all  men,  for  that 
all  have  sinned.  Rom.  iii.  23.  Fur  all  have  sinned,  and  come  bhort 
of  the  glory  of  God. 

24.  v  1  John  iii.  4.  Whosoever  committeth  sin,  transgresseth  also 
the  law:  for  sin  is  the  transgression  of  the  law.  Gal.  iii.  10.  For  as 
many  as  are  of  the  works  of  the  law,  are  under  the  curse :  for  it  is 
written,  Cursed  is  every  one  that  continueth  not  in  all  things  which 
are  written  in  the  book  of  the  law  to  do  them.  v.  12.  And  the  law 
is  not  of  faith :  but,  The  man  that  doth  them,  shall  live  in  them. 

25.  no  Rom.  v.  12.  Wherefore,  as  by  one  man  sin  entered  into 
the  world,  and  death  by  sin;  and  so  death  passed  upon  all  men,  for 
that  all  have  sinned,  v,  19.  For  as  by  one  man's  disobedience  many- 
were  made  sinners,  so  by  the  obedience  of  one  shall  many  be  made 
righteous. 

x  Rom.  iii.  10.  As  it  is  written,  There  is  none  righteous,  no  not 
one:  v.  u.  There  is  none  that  understandeth,  there  is  none  that 
seeketh  after  God.  v.  12.  They  are  all  gone  out  of  the  way,  they 
are  together  become  unprofitable :  there  is  none  that  doth  good,  no 

2B 


194  The  Larger  Catechism. 

which  is  commonly  called  original  sin,  and  from 
which  do  proceed  all  actual  transgressions.^/ 

Q^  26.  How  is  original  sin  conveyed  from  our 
first  parents  unto  their  posterity? 

A.  Original  sin  is  conveyed  from  our  first  pa- 
rents unto  their  posterity  by  natural  generation, 
so  as  all  that  proceed  from  them  in  that  way  are 
conceived  and  born  in  sin.s 

Q^  27.  What  misery  did  the  fall  bring  upon  man- 
kind? 

not  one.  v.  13.  Their  throat  is  an  open  sepulchre;  with  their 
tongues  they  have  used  deceit;  the  poison  of  asps  is  under  their  lips: 
v.  14.  Whose  mouth  is  full  of  curbing  and  bitterness,  v.  15.  Their 
feet  are  swift  to  shed  blood,  v.  16.  Destruction  and  misery  are  ia 
their  ways:  v.  17.  And  the  way  of  peace  have  they  not  known,  v. 
18.  There  is  no  fear  of  God  before  their  eyes.  v.  19.  Now  wc 
know  that  what  things  soever  the  law  saith,  it  saith  to  them  who  are 
under  the  law  :  that  every  mouth  may  be  stopped,  and  all  the  world 
may  become  guilty  beiore  God.  Eph.  ii.  1.  And  you  ha^h  he 
quickened  who  were  dead  in  trespasses  and  sins.  v.  2.  Wherein  in 
time  past  ye  walked  according  to  the  course  of  this  world,  according 
to  the  prince  of  the  power  of  the  air,  the  spirit  that  now  worketh  in 
the  children  of  disobedience,  v.  3.  Among  whom  also  we  all  had 
our  conversation  in  times  past,  in  the  lusts  of  our  flesh,  fulfilling 
the  desires  of  the  flesh  and  of  the  mind;  and  were  by  nature  the 
children  of  wrath,  even  as  others.  Rom.  v.  6.  For  when  we  were 
yet  without  strength,  in  due  time  Christ  died  for  the  ungodly,  Rom. 
viii.  7.  Because  the  carnal  mind  is  enmity  against  God:  (or  it  is  not 
subject  to  the  law  of  God,  neither  Indeed  can  be.  v.  S.  So  then 
they  that  are  in  the  flesh,  cannot  please  God.  Gen.  vi.  5.  And  God 
saw  that  the  wickedness  of  DW)  was  great  in  the  earth,  and  that  every 
imagination  ol  the  thoughts  of  his  heart  was  only  evil  continually. 

y  James  i.  14.  But  every  man  is  tempted)  when  he  is  drawn  away 
ol  his  own  lust,  and  enticed,  v.  i  <j.  Then  when  lust  hath  conceiv- 
ed, it  bringeth  lorth  sin:  and  sin,  when  it  is  finished,  bringeth  forth 
death.  Mat.  xv.  19.  For  out  of  the  heart  proceed  evil  thoughts, 
murders,  adulteries,  fornications,  thefts,  fake  witness,  blasphemies. 

26.  z  Psal.  ii.  5.  Behold,  I  w;i,  shapes  in  iniquity  ;  and  in  sin  did 
my  mother  conceive  me.  Job  xiv.  4.  Who  can  bring  a  dean  thing 
out  ol  an  unclean?  not  one.  fpb  kv.  14.  What  is  man,  that  he 
should  be  clean?  and  he  which  \>,  horn  ol  a  woman,  that  he  should 
be  righteous?  John  iii.  6.  That  which  is  born  ol  the  flesh,  is  flesh; 
and  that  which  is  born  of  the  Spirit,  is  spirit. 


T'he  Larger  Catechism.  195 

A.  The  fall  brought  upon  mankind  the  loss 
of  communion  with  God,^  his  displeasure  and 
curse ;  so  as  we  are  by  nature  children  of  wrath,£ 
bond  slaves  to  Satan,c  and  justly  liable  to  all 
punishments  in  this  world,  and  that  which  is  to 

come.i/ 

Q^2  8.  What  are  the  punishments  of  sin  in  this 

world  f 

A.  The  punishments  of  sin  in  this  world  are 
either  inward,  as  blindness  of  mind,*  a  reprobate 

27.  a  Gen.  iii.  8.  And  they  heard  the  voice  of  the  Lord  God 
walking  in  the  garden  in  the  cool  of  the  day:  and  Adam  and  his  wife 
hid  themselves  from  the  presence  of  the  Lord  God,  amongst  the  trees 
of  the  garden,  v.  10.  And  he  said,  I  heard  thy  voice  in  the  garden : 
and  I  was  afraid,  because  I  was  naked;  and  I  hid  myself,  y.  24. 
So  he  drove  out  the  man :  and  he  placed  at  the  east  of  the  garden  of 
Eden,  cherubims,  and  a  flaming  sword  which  turned  every  way, 
to  keep  the  way  of  the  tree  of  life. 

b  Eph.  ii.  2/ Wherein  in  time  past  ye  walked  according  to  the 
course  of  this  world,  according  to  the  prince  of  the  power  of  the  air, 
the  spirit  that  now  worketh  in  the  children  of  disobedience,  v.  3. 
Among  whom  also  we  all  had  our  conversation  in  times  past,  in  the 
lusts  of  our  flesh,  fulfilling  the  desires  of  the  flesh  and  of  the  mind; 
and  were  by  nature  the  children  of  wrath,  even  as  others. 

c  2  Tim.  ii.  26.  And  that  they  may  recover  themselves  out  of  the 
snare  of  the  devil,  who  are  taken  captive  by  him  at  his  will. 

d  Gen.  ii.  17.  But  of  the  tree  of  the  knowledge  of  good  and  evil, 
thou  shalt  not  eat  of  it :  for  in  the  day  that  thou  eatest  thereof,  thou 
shalt  surely  die.  Lam.  iii.  39.  Wherefore  doth  a  living  man  com- 
plain, a  man  for  the  punishment  of  his  sins?  Rom.  vi.  23.  For  the 
wages  of  sin  is  death:  but  the  gift  of  God  is  eternal  lite,  through  Je- 
sus Christ  our  Lord.  Mat.  xxv.  41.  Then  shah  he  say  also  unro 
them  on  the  left  hand,  Depart  from  me,  ye  cursed,  into  everlasting 
fire,  prepared  for  the  devil  and  his  angels,  v.  46.  And  these  shall 
go  away  into  everlasting  punishment:  but  the  righteous  into  life 
eternal.  Jude  7.  Even  as  Sodom  and  Gomorrha,  and  the  cities 
about  them  in  like  manner,  giving  themselves  over  to  fornication, 
and  going  after  strange  flesh,  are  set  forth  for  an  example,  suffering 
the  vengeance  of  eternal  fire. 

28.  e  Eph.  iv.  18.  Having  the  understanding  darkened,  being 
alienated  from  the  life  of  God,  through  the  ignorance  that  is  in  tnem, 
because  of  the  blindness  of  their  heart. 


i<)6  'The  'Larger  Catechism. 

sense,/*  strong  delusions,^  hardness  of  heart,^ 
horror  of  conscience,/  and  vile  affections  \k  or  out- 
ward, as  the  curse  of  God  upon  the  creatures  for 
our  sakes,/  and  all  other  evils  that  befal  us  in  our 
bodies,  names,  estates,  relations,  and  employ- 
ments \m  together  with  death  itself.;/ 

0^2  0.  What  are  the  punishments  of  sin  in  the 
world  to  come  ? 

A.  The  punishments  of  sin  in  the  world  to 

/"Rom.  i.  28.  Even  as  they  did  not  like  to  retain  God  in  their 
knowledge,  God  gave  them  over  to  a  reprobate  mind,  to  do  those 
things  which  are  not  convenient. 

g  2  Thes.  ii.  1  r.  And  for  this  cause  Cod  shall  send  them  strong 
delusion,  that  thev  should  believe  a  lie. 

/;  Rom.  ii.  5.  But  after  thy  hardness  and  impenitent  heart,  trea- 
surest  up  unto  thyself  wrath  against  the  day  of  wrath,  and  revelation 
of  the  righteous  judgment  of  God. 

i  Isa.  xxxiii.  14.  The  sinners  in  Zion  are  afraid,  fearfulness  hath 
surprised  the  hypocrites:  who  among  us  shall  dwell  with  the  devour- 
ing fire?  who  amongst  us  shall  dwell  with  everlasting  burnings? 
Gen.  iv.  13.  And  Cain  said  unto  the  Lord,  My  punishment  is 
greater  than  I  can  bear.  Mat.  xxvii.  4.  Saying,  I  have  sinned,  in 
that  J  have  betrayed  innocent  blood.  And  they  said,  What  is  that 
to  us?  sec  thou  to  that. 

k  Rom.  i.  2.6.  For  this  cause  God  gave  them  up  unto  vile  affec- 
tions: for  even  their  women  did  change  the  natural  use  into  that 
which  is  against  nature. 

/  Gen.  iii.  1  7.  And  unto  Adam  he  said,  Because  thou  hast  heark- 
ened unto  the  voice  of  thy  wife,  and  hast  eaten  of  the  tree  of  which 
I  commanded  thee,  saying,  Thou  shalt  not  eat  of  it:  cursed  is  the 
ground  for  thv  sake;  in  sorrow  shalt  thou  cat  of  it  all  the  days  of  thv 

fife. 

m  I>eut.  xxviii.  1$.  to  the  end.  But  it  shall  conic  to  pass,  it  thou 
wilt  not  hearken  unto  the  voice  of  the  Lord  thy  God,  to  observe  to 
do  all  his  commandments  and  his  statutes  which  I  command  thee 
this  day;  that  all  these  curses  shall  come  upon  thee,  and  overtake 
thee.  v.  16.  Cursed  shalt  thou  be  in  the  city,  and  cursed  shalt  thou 
be  in  the  field,  v.  1  7.  Cursed  shall  be  thy  basket  and  thy  store,  v. 
18.  Cursed  shall  be  the  fruit  of  thv  bodv,  and  the  fruit  of  thv  land, 
&e. 

n  Rom.  vi.  ci.  What  fruit  had  ye  then  in  those  things,  whereof 
ye  are  now  ashamed?  for  the  end  of  those  things  is  death,  v.  23. 
For  the  wages  of  sin  is  death:  but  the  gift  of  God  ii  eternal  lite, 
through  Jesus  Christ  our  Lord. 


The  Larger  Catechism.  197 

come,  are  everlasting  separation  from  the  com- 
fortable presence  of  God,  and  most  grievous  tor- 
ments in  soul  and  body,  without  intermission,  in 
hell-fire  for  ever.0 

Q.   20.  Doth  God  leave  all  mankind  to  perish  in 
the  estate  of  sin  and  misery? 

A.  God  doth  not  leave  all  men  to  perish  in  the 
estate  of  sin  and  misery,/)  into  which  they  fell  by 
the  breach  of  the  first  covenant,  commonly  called 
the  covenant  of  works,y  but  of  his  mere  love  and 
mercy,  delivereth  his  eled  out  of  it,  and  bring- 
eth  them  into  an  estate  of  salvation  by  the  second 
covenant,  commonly  called  the  covenant  of 
grace,  r 

nq.02  Thess.  3.  9.  Who  shall  be  punished  with  everlasting  de- 
struction from  the  presence  of  the  Lord,  and  from  the  glory  of  his 
power.  Mark  ix.  43,  44,  46,  48— To  go  into  hell,— where  their 
worm  dieth  not,  and  the  lire  is  not  quenched.  Luke  xvi.  24.  And  he 
cried  and  said,  Father  Abraham,  have  mercy  on  me,  and  send  Lazarus 
that  he  may  dip  the  tip  of  his  finger  in  water,  and  cool  my  tongue; 
for  I  am  tormented  in  this  flame. 

30./  1.  Thess.  v.  9.  For  God  hath  not  appointed  us  to  wrath,  but 
to  obtain  salvation  by  our  Lord  Jesus  Christ. 

a  Gal.  iii.  10.  For  as  many  as  are  of  the  works  of  the  law,  are  un- 
der the  curse:  for  it  is  written,  Cursed  is  every  one  that  continueth 
not  in  all  things  which  are  written  in  the  book  of  the  law  to  do  them. 
v.  12.  And  the  law  is  not  of  faith:  but,  the  man  that  doth  them 
shall  live  in  them.  _ 

r  Tit.  iii.  4.  But  after  that  the  kindness  and  love  of  God  our  ba- 
viour  toward  man  appeared,  v.  5.  Not  by  works  of  righteousness 
which  we  have  done,  but  according  to  his  mercy  he  saved  us  by  the 
washino-  of  regeneration,  and  renewing  of  the  Holy  Ghost:  v.  6, 
jyhi.cn  he  shed  on  us  abundantly,  through  Jesus  Christ  our  Saviour: 
v.  7.  That  being  justified  by  his  grace,  we  should  be  made  heirs  ac- 
cording to  the  hope  of  eternal  life.  Gal.  iii.  21.  Is  the  law  then 
against&the  promises  of  God?  God  forbid:  for  if  there  had  been  a 
law  given  which  could  have  given  life,  verily  righteousness  should 
have  been  by  the  law.  Rom.  iii.  20.  Therefore  by  the  deeds  of  the 
law  there  shall  no  flesh  be  justified  in  his  sight:  for  by  the  law  is 
the  knowledge  of  sin.  v.  21.  But  now  the  righteousness  of  God 
without  the  law  is  manifested,  being  witnessed  by  the  law  and  the 
prophets:  v.  22.  Even  the  righteousness  of  God  which  is  hy  faith  of 


1 9  8  The  Larger  Catechism. 

Q^  3 1 .  With  whom  was  the  covenant  of  grace 
made  ? 

A.  The  covenant  of  grace  was  made  with 
Christ  as  the  second  Adam,  and  in  him  with  all 
the  ele6t  as  his  seed.j- 

Q^32.  How  is  the  grace  of  God  manifested  in 
the  second  covenant  f 

A.  The  grace  of  God  is  manifested  in  the  se- 
cond covenant,  in  that  he  freely  provideth  and 
offereth  to  sinners  a  Mediator,/  and  life  and  sal- 
vation by  him,T;  and  requiring  faith,  as  the  con- 
dition to  interest  them  in  him,ic  promiseth  and 
giveth  his  holy  Spirit x  to  all  his  elect,  to  work  in 

Jesus  Christ  unto  all,  and  upon  all  them  that  believe;  for  there  is  no 
difference. 

3  1.  j  Gal.  iii.  16.  Now  to  Abraham  and  his  seed  were  the  promises 
made.  He  saith  not,  And  to  seeds,  as  of  manv;  but  as  of  one,  And 
to  thy  seed,  which  is  Christ.  (Rom.  v.  15.  to  the  end.)  Isa.  liii. 
10.  Yet  it  pleased  the  Lord  to  bruise  him;  he  hath  put  him  to  grief: 
when  thou  shalt  make  his  soul  an  offering  for  sin,  he  shall  see  his 
seed,  he  shall  prolong  his  days,  and  the  pleasure  cf  the  Lord  shall 
prosper  in  his  hand.  v.  11.  He  shall  see  o,1  the  travail  of  his  soul, 
and  shall  be  satisfied:  by  his  knowledge  shall  my  righteous  servant 
justify  many:  for  he  *hall  bear  their  iniquities. 

32.  /  Gen.  iii.  15.  And  I  will  put  enmity  between  thee  and  the 
woman,  and  between  thy  seed  and  her  seed:  it  shall  bruise  thy  head, 
and  thou  shalt  bruise  his  heel.  Isa.  xlii.  6.  I  the  Lord  have  called 
thee  in  rightcousntss,  and  will  hold  thine  hand,  and  will  keep  thee, 
and  will  give  thee  for  a  covenant  of  the  people,  for  a  light  of  the 
Gentiles.  John  vi.  27.  Labour  not  for  the  meat  which  perisheth, 
but  for  that  meat  which  endureth  unto  everlasting  life,  which  the 
Son  of  man  shall  give  unto  you  ;  for  him  hath  God  the  Father  scaled. 

v  1  John  v.  1 1.  And  this  is  the  record,  that  God  hath  given  tons 
eternal  life;  and  this  lire  k  in  his  Son.  v.  12.  He  that  hath  the  Son, 
hath  life;  and  he  that  hath  not  the  Son  of  God,   hath  not  life. 

10  John  iii.  16.  For  God  bo  loved  the  world,  that  he  gave  his  only 
begotten  Son,  that  whosoever  belicveth  in  him,  should  not  perish, 
bur  have  everlasting  life.  John  i.  12.  But  as  many  as  received  him, 
to  them  gave  he  power  to  become  the  sons  of  G^d,  even  to  ihem 
that  believe  on  his  name. 

x  Prov.  i.  23.  Behold,  I  will  pour  out  my  Spirit  unto  you,  I  will 
make  known  my  words  unto  vou. 


<r/je  Larger  Catechism.  199 

them  that  faith, jk  with  all  other. saving  graces,^ 
and  to  enable  them  unto  all  holy  obedience, a  as 
the  evidence  of  the  truth  of  their  faith,£  and 
thankfulness  to  God,<:  and  as  the  way  which  he 
hath  appointed  them  to  salvation. d 

O  22.  Was  the  covenant  of  grace  ahvays  admi- 
nistered after  one  and  the  same  manner  f 

A.  The  covenant  of  grace  was  not  always 
administered  after  the  same  manner,  but  the  ad- 
ministrations of  it  under  the  Old  Testament  were 
different  from  those  under  the  New.£ 

Q.  34.  How  was  the  covenant  of  grace  admi- 
nistered under  the  Old  Testament? 

y  2  Cor,  iv.  13.  We  having  the  same  Spirit  of  faith,  according  as 
jt  is  written,  1  believed,  and  therefore  have  I  spoken :  we  also  be- 
lieve, and  therefore  speak. 

z  Gal.  v.  22.  But  the  fruit  of  the  Spirit  is  love,  joy,  peace,  long- 
suffering,  gentleness,  goodness,  faith;  v.  23.  Meekness,  temperance : 
against  such  there  is  no  law. 

a  Ezek.  xxxvi.  27.  And  I  will  put  my  Spirit  within  you,  and 
cause  you  to  walk  in  my  statutes,  and  ye  shall  keep  my  judgments, 
and  do  them. 

b  James  ii.  18.  Yea,  a  man  may  say,  Thou  hast  faith,  and  I  have 
works:  shew  me  thy  faith  without  thy  works,  and  I  will  shew  thee 
my  faith  by  my  works,  v.  22.  Seest  thou  how  faith  wrought  with 
his  works/ and  by  works  was  faith  made  perfect? 

c  2  Cor.  v.  14.  For  the  love  of  Christ  constraineth  us,  because  we 
thus  judge,  that  if  one  died  for  all,  then  were  all  dead.  v.  15.  And 
that  he  died  for  all,  that  they  which  live  should  not  henceforth  live 
unto  themselves,  but  unto  him  which  died  for  them,  and  rose  again. 

d  Eph.  ii.  10.  For  we  are  his  workmanship,  created  in  Christ  Je- 
sus unto  good  works,  which  God  hath  before  ordained  that  we 
should  walk  in  them. 

33.  e  2  Cor.  hi.  6.  Who  also  hath  made  us  able  ministers  of  the 
New  Testament,  not  of  the  letter,  but  of  the  spirit:  for  the  letter 
killeth,  but  the  spirit  giveth  life.  v.  7.  But  if  the  ministration  of 
death  written  and  engraven  in  stones,  was  glorious,  so  that  the 
children  of  Israel  could  not  stedfastly  behold  the  face  of  Moses,  for 
the  glorv  of  his  countenance,  which  glory  was  to  be  done  away: 
v.  8.  How  shall  not  the  ministration  of  the  Spirit  be  rather  glorious? 
v.  9.  For  if  the  ministration  of  condemnation  be  glory,  much  more 
doth  the  ministration  of  righteousness  exceed  in  giory. 


200  The  Larger  Catechism. 

A.  The  covenant  of  grace  was  administered 
under  the  Old  Testament  by  promises^'  pro- 
phecies,^- sacrifices,^  circumcision,/  the  passover,*: 
and  other  types  and  ordinances,  which  did  all 
fore-signify  Christ  then  to  come,  and  were  for 
that  time  sufficient  to  build  up  the  elecl  in  faith 
in  the  promised  Messiah,/  by  whom  they  then 
had  full  remission  of  sin,  and  eternal  salvation.//* 

Q^  35.  How  is  the  covenant  of  grace  administer- 
ed under  the  New  'Testament '? 

A.  Under  the  New  Testament,  when  Christ 
the  substance  was  exhibited,  the  same  covenant 

54.  f  Rom.  xv.  8.  Now  I  say,  that  Jesus  Christ  was  a  minister 
of  tne  circumcision  iur  the  truth  of  God,  to  confirm  the  promises 
made  unto  the  fathers. 

g  Acts  iii.  20.  And  he  shall  send  Jesus  Christ,  which  before  was 
preached  unto  you.  v.  24.  Yea,  and  all  the  prophet ■>  from  Samuel, 
and  those  that  follow  alter,  as  many  as  have  spoken,  have  likewise 
foretold  of  these  da\  S. 

h  Heb.  x.  1.  For  the  law  having  a  shadow  of  good  things  to  come, 
and  not  the  very  image  of  the  lliin^,  can  never,  «  ith  those  sacrifices 
which  they  offered  )  car  by  year  continually,  make  the  comers  there- 
unto perfect. 

i  Rom.  iv.  11.  And  he  received  the  sign  of  circumcision,  a  seal  of 
the  righteousness  of  the  faith  which  he  had  yet  being  uncircumcised  : 
that  he  might  be  the  father  of  all  them  that  believe,  though  they  bt 
not  circumcised;  that  righteousness  might  be  imputed  unto  them 
also. 

k  1  Cor.  v.  7.  Purge  out  therefore  the  old  leaven,  that  ye  may  be 
a  new  lump,  as  ye  are  unleavened.     For  even  Chrijt  our  passo\  1 1 
sacrificed  lor  us. 

/  (tLb.  viii.  ix.  and  x.  chapters.)  Heb.  xi.  13.  These  all  died  in 
faith,  not  having  received  the  promises,  but  having  seen  them  afar 
off,  and  were  persuaded  ol  them,  and  embraced  them,  and  contested 
that  they  were  strangers  and  pilgrims  on  the  earth. 

m  Gal.  iii.  7.  Know  ye,  therefore,  that  they  which  arc  of  frith, 
the  same  are  the  children  of  Abraham,  v.  8.  Anil  the  scripture 
foreseeing  that  God  would  justify  the  heathen  through  faith,  preached 
before  the  gospel  unto  Abraham,  saying,  In  th  .  nations 

lesscd.     v.  9.  So  then,  they  which  be  oJ  w  ith 

faithful  Abraham,     v.  1 4.  Thai  the    bl<  isin 
come  on  the  Gentiles  through  Jesus  Christ  j  that  we  might  receive 
the  promise  oi  the  Spirit  through  faith. 


tfhe  Larger  Catechism.  .201 

of  orace  was,  and  still  is  to  be  administered  in 
the  preaching  of  the  wor.d,»  and  the  administra- 
tion of  the  sacraments  of  baptism,o  and  the  Lord's 
sapper  ;p  in  which  grace  and  salvation  are  held 
forth  in  more  fulness,  evidence,  and  efficacy,  to 
all  nations.^ 

Q.  36.  IV ho  is  the  Mediator  of  the  covenant  of 

grace  f 

A.  The  only  Mediator  of  the  covenant  of  grace 
is  the  Lord  Jesus  Christ,r  who  being  the  eternal 
Son  of  God,  of  one  substance  and  equal  with  the 

35.  «  Markxvi.  15.  And  he  said  unto  them,  Go  ye  into  all  the 
world,  and  preach  the  gospel  to  every  creature. 

0  Mat.  xxviii.  19.  Go  ye  therefore  and  teach  all  nations,  baptizing 
them  in  the  name  of  the  Father,  and  of  the  Son,  and  of  the  Holy 
Ghost :  v.  20.  Teaching  them  to  observe  all  things  whatsoever  I 
have  commanded  you :  and  lo,  I  am  with  you  alway,  even  unto  the 
end  of  the  world.     Amen. 

/  1  Cor.  xi.  23.  For  I  have  received  of  the  Lord,  that  which 
also  I  delivered  unto  you,  That  the  Lord  Jesus,  the  same  night  in 
which  he  was  betrayed,  took  bread:  v.  24.  And  when  he  had  given 
thanks,  he  brake  it,  and  said,  Take,  eat ;  this  is  my  body,  which  is 
broken  for  you  :  this  do  in  remembrance  of  me.  v.  25.  After  the 
same  manner  also  he  took  the  cup,  when  he  had  supped,  saying,  This 
cup  is  the  New  Testament  in  my  blood :  this  do  ye,  as  oft  as  ye  drink 
it,  in  remembrance  ot  me. 

q  2  Cor.  iii.  6.  to  the  end.  Who  also  hath  made  us  able  ministers 
of  the  New  Testament,  not  of  the  letter,  but  of  the  Spirit:  for  the 
letter  killeth,  but  the  Spirit  giveth  life.  v.  7.  But  if  the  ministration 
of  death  written  and  engraven  in  stones,  was  glorious, — v.  8.  How 
shall  not  the  ministration  of  the  Spirit  be  rather  glorious?  v.  9.  For 
if  the  ministration  of  condemnation  be  glory,  much  mere  doth  the 
ministration  of  righteousness  exceed  in  glory,  &c.  Heb.  viii.  6.  But 
now  hath  he  obtained  a  more  excellent  minibtry,  by  how  much  also 
he  is  the  Mediator  of  a  better  covenant,  which  was  established  upon 
better  promises,  v.  10.  For  this  is  the  covenant  that  I  will  make 
with  the  house  of  Israel  after  those  days,  saith  the  Lord ;  I  will  put 
my  laws  into  their  mind,  and  write  them  in  their  hearts:  and  I  will 
be  to  them  a  God,  and  they  shall  be  to  me  a  people,  v.  1 1 .  And  they 
shall  not  teach  every  man  his  neighbour,  and  every  man  his  brother, 
saying,  Know  the  Lord  ;  for  all  shall  know  me,  from  the  least  to  the 
greatest.  Mat.  xxviii.  19.  Go  ye  therefore  and  teach  all  nations, 
baptizing  them  in  the  name  of,  &c. 

36.  r  1  Tim.  ii.  5.  For  there  is  one  God,  and  one  Mediator  be- 
tween God  and  man,  the  man  Christ  Jesus. 

2   C 


202  The  Larger  Catechism. 

Fathery  in  the  fulness  of  time  became  man,/  and 
so  was  and  continues  to  be  God  and  man,  in  two 
entire  distinct  natures  and  one  person  for  ever.i; 

Q.  37.  How  did  Christ,  being  the  Son  of  God, 
become  man? 

A.  Christ  the  Son  of  God  became  man,  by 
taking  to  himself  a  true  body,  and  a  reasonable 
soul,u>  being  conceived  by  the  power  of  the  Holy 
Ghost,  in  the  womb  of  the  virgin  Ma'ry,  of  her 
substance,  and  born  of  her,,*;  yet  without  %\\\.y 

s  John  i.  1.  In  the  beginning  was  the  Word,  and  the  Word  wss 
with  God,  and  the  Word  was  God.  v.  14.  And  the  Word  was  made 
flesh,  and  dwelt  among  us,  (and  we  beheld  hk  glory,  the  glory  as 
of  the  only  begotten  of  the  Father)  full  of  grace  and  truth.  John  x. 
30.  I  and  my  Father  are  one.  Phil.  ii.  6.  Who  being  in  the  form 
of  God,  thought  it  no  robbery  to  be  equal  with  God. 

t  Gal.  iv.  4.  But  when  the  fulness  of  the  time  was  come,  God 
sent  forth  his  Son  made  of  a  woman,  made  under  the  law. 

v  Luke  i.  35.  And  the  angel  answered  and  said  unto  her,  The 
Holy  Ghost  shall  come  upon  thee,  and  the  power  of  the  Highest 
shall  overshadow  thee :  therefore  also  that  holy  thing  which  shall  be 
born  ofthee,  shall  be  called  the  Son  of  God.  Rom.  ix.  5.  Whose 
are  the  fathers,  and  of  whom  as  concerning  the  flesh  Christ  came, 
who  is  over  all,  God  blessed  for  ever.  Amen.  Col.  ii.  9.  For  in 
him  dwelleth  all  the  fulness  of  the  Godhead  bodily.  Heb.  v ii.  24. 
But  this  man,  because  he  continueth  ever,  hath  an  unchangeable 
priesthood,  v.  25.  Wherefore  he  is  able  also  to  save  them  to  the 
uttermost,  that  come  unto  God  by  him,  seeing  he  ever  liveth  to  make 
intercession  for  them. 

37.  iv  John  i.  14.  And  the  Word  was  made  flesh,  and  dwelt 
among  us  (and  we  beheld  his  glory,  the  glory  as  of  the  only  begotten 
of  the  Father),  full  of  grace  andtruth.  Mat.  xxvi.  38.  Then  saith 
he  unto  them,  My  soul  is  exceeding  sorrowful,  even  unto  death: 
tairy  ye  here  and  watch  with  me. 

x  Luke  i.  27.  To  a  virgin  espoused  to  a  man,  whose  name  was 
Joseph,  of  the  house  of  David;  and  the  virgin's  name  was  Mary 
v.  31.  And  behold,  thou  shalt  conceive  in  thy  womb,  and  bring 
forth  a  son,  and  shalt  call  his  name  Jesus,  v.  35.  And  the  angt  I 
answered  3nd  said  unto  her,  The  Holy  Ghost  shall  come  upon  tlu  \ 
and  the  power  of  the  Highest  shall  overshadow  thee:  therefore  also 
that  holy  thing  which  shall  be  born  of  thee,  shall  be  called  the  Son 
of  God.  v.  42.  And  Elizabeth  spake  out  with  a  loud  voice,  and 
said,  Blessed  art  thou  among  women,  and  blessed  is  the  fruit  of  thy 
womb.  Gal.  iv.  4.  Bat  when  the  fulness  of  the  time  was  come, 
God  sent  forth  his  Son  made  of  a  woman,   m  rthe  law. 

y  Hcb.  iv.  15.  For  we  have  not  an  high  priest  which  cannot  be 


The  Larger  Catechism.  203 

Q.  38.  Why  was  it  requisite  that  the  Mediator 
should  be  God? 

A.  It  was  requisite  that  the  Mediator  should  be 
God,  that  he  might  sustain  and  keep  the  human 
nature  from  sinking  under  the  infinite  wrath  of 
God,  and  the  power  of  death  ;z  give  worth  and 
efficacy  to  his  sufferings,  obedience,  and  interces- 
sion ;a  and  so  satisfy  God's  justice^  procure  his 

touched  with  the  feeling  of  our  infirmities;  but  was  in  all  points 
tempted  like  as  we  are,  yet  without  sin.  Heb.  vii.  26.  For  such  an 
high  priest  became  us,  who  is  holy,  harmless,  undefiled,  separate 
from  sinners,  and  made  higher  than  the  heavens. 

38.  z  A6ts  ii.  24.  Whom  God  hath  raised  up,  having  loosed  the 
pains  of  deaih:  because  it  was  not  possible  that  he  should  be  holdea 
of  it.  v.  25.  For  David  speaking  concerning  him,  I  foresaw  the 
Lord  always  before  my  face,  for  he  is  on  my  right  hand,  that  I  should 
not  be  moved.  Rom.  i.  4.  And  declared  to  be  the  Son  of  God  with 
power,  according  to  the  Spirit  of  holiness,  by  the  resurrection  from 
the  dead.  Compared  with  Rom.  W.  25.  Who  was  delivered  for  our 
offences,  and  was  raised  again  for  our  justification.  Heb.  ix.  14. 
How  much  more  shall  the  blood  of  Christ,  who  through  the  eternal 
Spirit  offered  himself  without  spot  to  God,  purge  your  conscience 
from  dead  works  to  serve  the  living  God? 

a  Acls  xx.  28.  Take  heed  therefore  unto  yourselves,  and  to  all  the 
flock,  over  the  which  the  Holy  Ghost  hath  made  you  overseers,  to 
feed  the  church  of  God,  which  he  has  purchased  with  his  own  blood. 
Heb.  ix.  14.  How  much  more  shall  the  blood  of  Christ,  who  through 
the  eternal  Spirit  offered  himself  without  spot  to  God,  purge  your 
conscience  from  dead  works  to  serve  the  living  God?  Heb.  vii.  25. 
Wherefore  he  is  able  also  to  save  them  to  the  uttermost,  that  come 
unto  God  by  him,  seeing  he  ever  liveth  to  make  intercession  for 
them.  v.  26.  For  such  an  high  priest  became  us,  who  is  holy,  harm- 
less, undefiled,  separate  from  sinners,  and  made  higher  than  the 
heavens:  v.  27.  Who  needeth  not  daily,  as  those  high  priests,  to  of- 
fer up  sacrifice,  first  for  his  own  sins,  and  then  for  the  people's:  for 
this  he  did  once,  when  he  offered  up  himself,  v.  28.  For  the  law 
maketh  men  high  priests  which  have  infirmity;  but  the  word  of  the 
oath  which  was  since  the  law,  maketh  the  Son,  who  is  consecrated 
for  evermore. 

b  Rom.  iii.  24.  Being  justified  freely  by  his  grace,  through  the  re- 
demption that  is  in  Jesus  Christ:  v.  25.  Whom  God  hath  set  forth 
to  be  a  propitiation,  through  faith  in  his  blood,  to  declare  his  right- 
eousness for  the  remission  of  sins  that  are  past,  through  the  forbear- 
ance of  God:  v.  26.  To  declare,  I  say,  at  this  time,  his  righteous- 


204  The  Larger  Catechism. 

favour,r  purchase  a  peculiar  people,^  give  his 
Spirit  to  them,*?  conquer  all  their  enemies,/*  and 
bring  them  to  everlasting  salvation.^ 

Q^39.  Why  was  it  requisite  that  the  Mediator 
should  be  man  f 

A.  It  was  requisite  that  the  Mediator  should 
be  man,  that  he  might  advance  our  nature,/*  per- 

ness:  that  he  might  be  just,  and  the  justifier  of  him  which  believeth 
in  Jesus. 

c  Eph.  i.  6.  To  the  praise  of  the  glory  of  his  grace,  wherein  he 
hath  made  us  accepted  in  the  beloved.  Mat.  iii.  1  7.  And  lo,  a  voice 
from  heaven  saying,  This  is  my  beloved  Son,  in  whom  I  am  well 
pleased. 

d  Tit.  ii.  13.  Looking  for  that  blessed  hope,  and  the  glorious  ap- 
pearing of  the  great  God  and  our  Saviour  Jesus  Christ;  v.  14. 
Who  gave  himself  for  us,  that  he  might  redeem  us  from  all  iniquity, 
and  purify  unto  himself  a  peculiar  people,  zealous  of  good  works. 

e  Gal.  iv.  6.  And  because  ye  are  sons,  God  hath  sent  forth  the 
Spirit  of  his  Son  into  your  hearts,  crying  Abba,  Father. 

f  Luke  i.  68.  Blessed  be  the  Lord  God  of  Israel,  for  he  hath 
visited  and  redeemed  his  people;  v.  69.  And  hath  raised  up  an 
horn  of  salvation  for  us,  in  the  house  of  his  servant  David;  v.  71. 
That  we  should  be  saved  irom  our  enemies,  and  irom  the  hand  of 
all  that  hate  us.  v.  74.  That  he  would  grant  unto  us,  that  we,  being 
delivered  out  of  the  hands  of  our  enemies,  might  serve  him  without 
fear. 

g  Heb.  v.  8.  Though  he  were  a  Son,  yet  learned  he  obedience 
by  the  things  which  he  suffered :  v.  9.  And  being  made  perfect,  he 
became  the  author  of  eternal  salvation  unto  all  them  that  obey  him. 
Heb.  ix.  n.  But  Christ  being  come  an  high  priest  of  good  things  to 
come,  by  a  greater  and  more  perfect  tabernacle,  not  made  with  hands, 
that  is  to  say,  not  of  this  building;  v.  12.  Neither  by  the  blood  of 
goats  and  calves,  but  by  his  own  blood  he  entered  in  once  into  the 
holy  place,  having  obtained  eternal  redemption  for  us.  v.  13.  For 
if  the  blood  of  bulls,  and  of  goats,  and  the  ashes  of  an  heifer  sprink- 
ling the  unclean,  sandifieth  to  the  purifying  of  the  flesh;  v.  14. 
How  much  more  shall  the  blood  of  Christ,  who  through  the  eternal 
Spirit  offered  himself  without  spot  to  God,  purge  your  conscience 
from  dead  works  to  serve  the  living  God?  v.  1  5.  And  for  this  cause 
he  is  the  Mediator  of  the  New  Testament,  that  by  means  of  death, 
for  the  redemption  of  the  transgressions  that  were  under  the  first 
tment,  tiny  which  are  called  might  receive  the  promise  of  eternal 
inheritance. 

3^9.  //  Heb.  ii.  16.  For  verily  he  took  not  on  him  the  nature  of 
angels;  but  he  took  on  him  the  seed  of  Abraham. 


fhe  Larger  Catechism.  205 

form  obedience  to  the  law,/  suffer  and  make  in- 
tercession for  us  in  our  nature,*  have  a  fellow- 
feeling  of  our  infirmities,/  that  we  might  receive 
the  adoption  of  sons,;»  and  have  comfort  and  ac- 
cess with  boldness  unto  the  throne  of  grace.w 

Q.  40.  Why  was  it  requisite  that  the  Mediator 
should  be  God  and  man  in  one  person  I 

A.  It  was  requisite  that  the  Mediator,  who 
was  to  reconcile  God  and  man,  should  himself  be 
both  God  and  man,  and  this  in  one  person,  that 
the  proper  works  of  each  nature  might  be  ac- 
cepted of  God  for  us,o  and  relied  on  by  us,  as  the 
works  of  the  whole  person./) 

i  Gal.  iv.  4.  But  when  the  fulness  of  the  time  was  come,  God  sent 
forth  his  Son,  made  of  a  woman,  made  under  the  law. 

k  Heb.  ii.  14.  Forasmuch  then  as  the  children  are  partakers  of 
flesh  and  blood,  he  also  himself  likewise  took  part  of  the  same:  that 
through  death  he  might  destroy  him  that  had  the  power  of  death,  that 
is,  the  devil.  Heb.  vii.  24.  But  this  man,  because  he  continueth 
ever,  hath  an  unchangeable  priesthood,  v.  25.  Wherefore  he  is  able 
also  to  save  them  to  the  uttermost,  that  come  unto  God  by  him, 
seeing  he  ever  liveth  to  make  intercession  for  them. 

/Heb.  iv.  15.  For  we  have  not  an  high  priest  which  cannot  be 
touched  with  the  feeling  of  our  infirmities;  but  was  in  all  points 
tempted  like  as  we  are,  yet  without  sin. 

m  Gal.  iv.  5.  To  redeem  them  that  were  under  the  law,  that  we 
might  receive  the- adoption  of  sons. 

7?  Heb.  iv.  16.  Let  us  therefore  come  boldly  unto  the  throne  of 
grace,  that  we  may  obtain  mercy,  and  find  grace  to  help  in  time  of 
need. 

40.  0  Mat.  i.  21.  And  she  shall  bring  forth  a  son,  andthou  shalt 
call  his  name  Jesus:  for  he  shall  save  his  people  from  their  sins.  v. 
23.  Behold,  a  virgin  shall  be  with  child,  and  shall  bring  forth  a  son, 
and  they  shall  call  his  name  Emmanuel,  which  being  interpreted,  is, 
God  with  us.  Mat.  hi.  17.  And  lo,  a  voice  from  heaven,  saying, 
This  is  my  beloved  Son,  in  whom  I  am  well  pleased.  Heb.  ix.  14. 
How  much  more  shall  the  blood  of  Christ,  who  through  the  eternal 
Spirit  offered  himself  without  spot  to  God,  purge  your  conscience 
from  dead  works  to  serve  the  living  God? 

/  1  Pet.  ii.  6.  Wherefore  also  it  is  contained  in  the  scripture,  Be- 
hold, I  lay  in  Sion  a  chief  corner-stone,  elecT:,  precious:  and  he  that 
believeth  on  him  shall  net  be  confounded. 


20 6  The  Larger  Catechism. 

Q^  4 1 .  Why  was  our  Mediator  called  "Jesus  f 
A.  Our  Mediator  was  called  Jesus,  because  he 
saveth  his  people  from  their  sins.^ 

Q.  42.  Why  was  our  Mediator  called  Christ  f 
A.  Our  Mediator  was  called  Christ,  because 
he  was  anointed  with  the  Holy  Ghost  above  mea- 
sure \r  and  so  set  apart,  and  fully  furnished  with 
all  authority  and  ability,*  to  execute  the  offices 
of  prophet,/   priest,^    and  king  of  his  church, 


41.  q  Mat.  i.  21.  And  she  shall  bring  forth  a  son,  and  thou  shalt 
call  his  name  Jesus:  for  he  shall  save  his  people  from  their  sins. 

42.  r  John  iii.  34.  For  he  whom  God  hath  sent,  speaketh  the 
words  ot  God:  for  God  giveth  not  the  Spirit  by  measure  unto  him. 
l'sal.  xlv.  7.  Thou  lovcst  righteousness,  and  hatest  wickedness: 
therefore  God,  thy  God,  hath  anointed  thee  with  the  oil  of  gladness, 
above  thy  fellows. 

s  John  vi.  27.  Labour  not  for  the  meat  which  perisheth,  but  for 
that  meat  which  endureth  unto  everlasting  life,  which  the  Son  of 
man  shall  give  unto  you:  for  him  hath  God  the  Father  sealed.  Mat. 
xxviii.  18.  And  Jesus  came,  and  spake  unto  them,  saying,  All  power 
is  given  unto  me  in  heaven  and, in  earth,  v.  19.  Go  ye  therefore 
and  teacn  all  nations,  baptizing  them  in  the  name  of  the  Father,  and 
of  the  Son,  and  of  the  Holy  Ghost:  v.  20.  Teaching  them  to  ob- 
serve all  things  whatsoever  I  have  commanded  you:  and  lo,  lam, 
with  you  alway,  even  unto  the  end  ot  the  world.     Amen. 

/  Acts  iii.  21.  Whom  the  heaven  must  receive,  until  the  times  of 
restitution  of  ail  things  which  God  hath  spoken  by  the  mouth  of  all, 
his  holy  prophets,  since  the  world  begun,  v.  22.  For  Moses  truly 
said  unto  the  fathers,  A  prophet  shall  the  Lord  your  God  raise  up 
unto  you,  of  your  brethren,  like  unto  me;  him  shall  ye  hear  in  a!' 
things  whatsoever  he  shall  say  unto  you.  Luke  iv.  18.  The  Spirit 
of  the  Lord  is  upon  me,  because  he  hath  anointed  me  to  preach  the 
gospel  to  the  poor,  he  hath  sent  me  to  heal  the  broken  hearted,  to 
preach  deliverance  to  the  captives,  and  recovering  of  sight  to  the 
blind,  to  set  at  liberty  them  that  are  bruised,  v.  21.  And  he  began 
to     v  unto  them,  This  day  is  this  scripture  fulfilled  in  your  < 

v  Heb.  v.  5.  So  also,  Christ  glorified  not  himself  to  be  made  an 
riestj  but  he  that  said  unto  him,  Thou  art  my  Son,  to-day 
have  I  begotten  thee.  v.  6.  As  he  saith  also  in  another  place,  Thou 
art  a  priest  forever  alter  the  order  or  Melchisedec.  v.  7.  Who  in 
the  days  of  his  flesh,  when  he  had  offered  up  prayers  and  supplica- 
tions, with  strong  crying  and  tears,  unto  him  that  was  able  to  save 
him  from  death,  and  was  heard,  in  that  he  feared.     Heb.  iv.  14. 


The  Larger  Catechism,  207 

iv  in  the  estate  both  of  his  humiliation  and  ex- 
altation. 

Q.  43.  How  doth  Christ  execute  the  office  of  a 
prophet  f 

A.  Christ  executeth  the  office  of  a  prophet,  in 
his  revealing  to  the  church,*  in  all  ages,  by  his 
Spirit  and  word,jy  in  divers  ways  of  administra- 


Seeing  then  that  we  have  a  great  high  priest,  that  is  passed  into  the 
heavens,  Jesus  the  Son  of  God,  let  us  hold  fast  our  profession.  v„ 
1  5.  For  we  have  not  an  high  priest  which  cannot  be  touched  with 
the  feeling  of  our  infirmities;  but  was  in  all  points  tempted  like  as 
we  are,  yet  without  sin. 

w  Psal.  ii.  6.  Yet  have  I  set  my  King  upon  my  holy  hill  of  Zion. 
Mat.  xxi.  5.  Tell  ye  the  daughter  of  Zion,  Behold,  thy  King  cometh 
unto  thee,  meek,  and  sitting  upon  an  ass,  and  a  colt  the  fole  of  an 
ass.  Isa.  ix.  6.  For  unto  us  a  Child  is  born,  unto  us  a  Son  is  given, 
and  the  government  shall  be  upon  his  shoulder:  and  his  name  shall 
be  called  Wonderful,  Counsellor,  The  mighty  God,  The  everlast- 
ing Father,  The  Prince  of  Peace,  v.  7.  Of  the  increase  of  his  go- 
vernment and  peace  there  shall  be  no  end,  upon  the  throne  of  David, 
and  upon  his  kingdom,  to  order  it,  and  to  establish  it  with  judgment 
and  with  justice,  from  henceforth  even  forever:  the  zeal  of  the  Lord 
of  hosts  will  perform  this.  Phil.  ii.  8.  And  being  found  in  fashion 
as  a  man,  he  humbled  himself,  and  became  obedient  unto  death, 
even  the  death  of  the  cross,  v.  9.  Wherefore  God  also  hath  highly 
exalted  him,  and  given  him  a  name  which  is  above  every  name:  v. 
10.  That  at  the  name  of  Jesus  every  knee  should  bow,  of  things  in 
heaven,  and  things  in  earth,  and  things  under  the  earth;  v.  1  j.  And 
that  every  tongue  should  confess,  that  Jesus  Christ  is  Lord,  to  the 
glory  of  God  the  Father. 

43.  x  John  i.  18.  No  man  hath  seen  God  at  any  time;  the  only 
begotten  Son,  which  is  in  the  bosom  of  the  Father, "he  hath  declared 
him. 

y  1  Pet.  3.  10.  Of  which  salvation  the  prophets  have  enquired,  and 
searched  diligently,  who  prophesied  of  the  grace  that  should  come 
unto  you:  v.  11.  Searching  what,  or  what  manner  of  time  the 
Spirit  of  Christ  which  was  in  them  did  signify,  when  it  testified  be- 
forehand the  sufferings  of  Christ,  and  the  glory  that  should  follow. 
v.  is.  Unto  whom  it  was  revealed,  that  not  unto  themselves,  but 
unto  us  they  did  minister  the  things  which  are  now  reported  unto 
you  by  them  that  have  preached  the  gospel  unto  you,  with  the  Holv 
Ghost  sent  down  from  heaven;  which  things  the  angels  desire  to 
look  into. 


2o8  LThe  Larger  Catechism. 

tion,s  the  whole  will  of  God,<?  in  all  things  con- 
cerning; their  ediiication  and  salvation. £ 

Q.  44.  Hozv  doth  Christ  execute  the  office  of  a 
priest  ? 

A.  Christ  executeth  the  office  of  a  priest,  in  his 
once  offering  himself  a  sacrifice  without  spot  to 
God  \c  to  be  a  reconciliation  for  the  sins  of  his 
people,^/ and  in  making  continual  intercession  for 
them.£f 

0^45.  How  doth  Christ  execute  the  office  of  a 
king  ? 

z  Heb.  i.  1.  God,  who  at  sundry  times,  and  in  divers  manners, 
spake  in  time  past  unto  the  Fathers  by  the  prophets,  v.  2.  Hath  in 
these  last  days  spoken  unto  us  by  his  Son,  whom  he  hath  appointed 
heir  of  all  things,  by  whom  also  he  made  the  worlds. 

a  John  xv.  1^.  Henceforth  I  call  you  not  servants;  for  the  ser- 
vant knoweth  nut  vvhat  his  lord  doth:  but  I  have  called  you  friends; 
for  all  things  that  I  have  htaid  of  my  Father,  I  have  made  known 
unto  you. 

b  Aels  xx.  32.  And  now,  bre'hren,  I  commend  you  to  God,  and 
to  the  word  of  his  grace,  which  is  able  to  build  you  up,  and  to  give 
vou  an  inheritance  among  all  them  which  are  sanctified.  Eph.  iv.  11. 
And  he  gave  some,  apostles:  and  some,  prophets:  and  some,  evan- 
gelists: and  some,  pastors  and  teachers,  v.  12.  For  the  perfecting 
of  the  saints,  for  the  work  of  the  ministry,  for  the  edifying  of  the 
body  of  Christ:  v.  13.  Till  we  all  come  in  the  unity  of  the  faith, 
and  of  the  knowledge  of  the  Son  of  God,  unto  a  perfect  man,  unto 
the  measure  of  the  stature  of  the  fulness  of  Christ.  John  xx.  31.  But 
these  are  written,  that  ye  might  believe  that  Jesus  is  the  Christ,  the  Sou 
of  God;  and  that  believing,  ye  might  have  life  through  his  name. 

44.  c  Heb.  ix.  14.  How  much  more  shall  the  blood  of  Christ,  who 
through  the  eternal  Spirit  offered  himself  without  spot  to  God,  purge 
yourcon  om  dead  -works  to  serve  the  living  God?  v.  28.  So 

Christ  was  once  offered  to  bear  the  sins  of  many  ;  and  unto  them  that 
look  for  him  shall  he  appear  the  second  time,  without  sin,  unto  sal- 
vation. 

J  Heb.  ii.  1  7.  Wherefore  in  all  things  it  behoved  him  to  be  made 
like  unto  his  brethn  n;  that  he  might  be  a  merciful  and  faithful  high 
priest,  in  things  pertaining  to  God,  to  make  reconciliation  for  the 
sins  ot  the  people. 

.  Heb.  vii.  2^.  Wherefore  he  i.  able  also  to  save  them  to  the  ut- 
termost, that  come  unto  God  by  him,  seeing  he  ever  liveth  to  make 
intercession  for  them. 


I'he  Larger  Catechism.  209 

A.  Christ  executeth  the  office  of  a  king,  in 
calling  out  of  the  world  a  people  to  himself,/'  and 
giving  them  officers,^  laws,i>  and  censures,  by 
which  he  visibly  governs  them  ;/"  in  bestowing 
saving  grace  upon  his  elect,i  rewarding  their 
obedience,/  and  correcting  them  for  their  sins, 

45. y  A<ts  xv.  14.  Simeon  hath  declared  how  God  at  the  first  did 
visit  the  Gentiles,  to  take  out  of  them  a  people  for  his  name.  v.  15. 
And  to  this  agree  the  words  of  the  prophets;  as  it  is  written,  v.  j6. 
After  this  I  will  return,  and  will  build  again  the  tabernacle  of  David 
which  is  fallen  down:  and  I  will  build  again  the  ruins  thereof,  and 
I  will  set  it  up.  Isa.  lv.  4.  Behold,  I  have  given  him  for  a  witness 
to  the  people,  a  leader  and  commander  to  the  people,  v.  5.  Behold, 
thou  shalt  call  a  nation  that  thou  knowest  not,  and  nations  that  knew 
not  thee  shall  run  unto  thee,  because  of  the  Lord  thy  God,  and  foe 
the  holy  One  of  Israel;  for  he  hath  glorified  thee.  Gen.  xlix.  10. 
The  sceptre  shall  not  depart  from  Judah,  nor  a  lawgiver  from  be- 
tween his  feet,  until  Shiloh  come,  and  unto  him  shall  the  gathering 
of  the  people  be.  Psal.  ex.  3.  Thy  people  shall  be  willing  in  the  day 
of  thy  power,  in  the  beauties  of  holiness  from  the  womb  of  the 
morning:  thou  hast  the  dew  of  thy  youth. 

g  Eph.  iv.  ir.  And  he  gave  some,  apostles;  and  some,  prophets; 
and  some,  evangelists;  and  some,  pastors  and  teachers ;  v.  12.  For 
the  perfecting  of  the  saints,  for  the  work  of  the  ministry,  for  the 
edifying  of  the  body  of  Christ.  1  Cor.  xii.  28.  And  God  hath  set 
some  in  the  church,  first  aposdes,  secondarily  prophets,  thirdly  teach- 
ers, after  that  miracles,  then  gifts  of  healings,  helps,  governments, 
•diversities  of  tongues. 

h  Isa.  xxxiii.  22.  For  the  Lord  is  our  Judge,  the  Lord  is  our  Law- 
giver, the  Lord  is  our  King ;  he  will  save  us. 

i  Mat.  xviii.  17.  And  if  he  shall  neglect  to  hear  them,  tell  it  unto 
the  church :  but  if  he  neglect  to  hear  the  church,  let  him  be  unto 
thee  as  an  heathen  man,  and  a  publican,  v.  18.  Verily  I  say  unto 
you,  Whatsoever  ye  shall  bind  on  earth,  shall  be  bound  in  heaven  : 
and  whatsoever  ye  shall  loose  on  earth,  shall  be  loosed  in  heaven. 
1  Cor.  v.  4.  In  the  name  of  our  Lord  Jesus  Christ,  when  ye  are  ga- 
thered together,  and  my  spirit,  with  the  power  of  our  Lord  Jesus 
Christ,  v.  5.  To  deliver  such  an  one  unto  Satan  for  the  destruction  of 
the  flesh,  that  the  spirit  may  be  saved  in  the  day  of  the  Lord  Jesus. 

k  Acts  v.  31.  Him  hath  God  exalted  with  his  right  hand  to  be  a 
Prince  and  a  Saviour,  for  to  give  repentance  to  Israel,  and  forgiveness 
of  sins. 

/  Rev.  xxii.  12.  And  behold,  I  come  quickly;  and  my  reward  is 
w  ith  me,  to  give  every  man  according  as  his  work  shall  be.  Rev.  ii 
10.  Fear  none  of  those  things  which  thou  shalt  suffer;  behold,  the 

2D 


2  id  ft  he  Larger  Catechism. 

in  preserving  and  supporting  them  under  all  theif 
temptations  and  sufferings, n  restraining  and  over- 
coming all  their  enemies,*?  and  powerfully  order- 
ing all  things  for  his  own  glorv,/>  and  their  good  ; q 
and  also  in  taking  vengeance  on  the  rest  who 
know  not  God,  and  obev  not  the  gospel. r 

Q^  46.  What  was  the  estate  of  Chris? s  humi- 
liation ? 

A.  The  estate  of  Christ's  humiliation  was  that 
low  condition,  wherein  he,  for  our  sakes,  empty- 
ing himself  of  his  glory,  took  upon  him  the  form 
of  a  servant,  in  his  conception  and  birth,  life, 
death,  and  after  his  death,  until  his  resurrection.! 

devil  shall  cast  some  of  you  into  prison,  that  ye  may  be  tried  ;  and 
ye  shall  have  tribulation  ten  days  :  be  thou  faithful  unto  death,  and  I 
will  give  thee  a  crown  of  life. 

in  Rev.  iii.  10.  As  many  as  I  love,  I  rebuke  and  chasten:  be 
zealous  therefore  and  repent. 

«  Isa.  lxiii.  9.  In  all  their  affliction  he  was  afflicted,  and  the  angtl 
of  his  presence  saved  them:  in  his  love  and  in  his  pity  he  redeemed 
them,  and  he  bare  them,  and  carried  them  all  the  days  of  old. 

0  1  Cor.  xv.  2c.  For  he  must  reign,  till  he  hath  put  all  enemies 
under  his  feet.  Psal.  ex.  throughout,  v.  r.  The  Lord  said  unto  my 
Lord,  Sir  thou  at  my  right  hand  until  I  make  thine  enemies  thy 
footstool,  v.  a.  The  Lord  shall  send  the  rod  of  thy  strength  out  of 
Zion  :  rule  thou  in  the  midst  of  thine  enemies,  is'c. 

/Rom.  xiv.  10.  But  why  dost  thou  judge  thy  brother?  or  why 
dost  thou  set  at  nought  thy  brother?  for  we  shall  all  stand  before  the 
judgment-seat  of  Christ,  v.  1 1 .  For  it  is  written,  As  I  live,  saith  the 
Lord,  every  knee  shall  bow  to  me,  and  every  tongue  shall  confess  to 
God. 

a  Rom.  viii.  28.  And  we  know  that  all  things  work  together  for 
good,  to  them  that  love  God,  to  them  who  are  the  called  according 
to  his  purpose. 

;  2  Thess.  i.  8.  In  flaming  fire,  taking  vengeance  on  them  that 
know  not  God,  and  that  obey  not  the  gospel  of  our  Lord  Jesus 
Christ:  v.  9.  VVho  shall  be  punished  with  everlasting  destruction 
from  the  presence  of  the  Lord,  and  from  the  glory  of  his  power. 
Psal.  ii.  8.  Ask  of  me,  and  I  shall  give  thee  the  heathen  for  thine  in- 
heritance, and  the  uttermost  parts  of  the  earth  for  thy  possession,  v. 
9.  Thou  shalt  break  them  with  a  rod  of  iron,  thou  shalt  dash  them 
in  pieces  like  a  potter's  vessel. 

46.  j  Phil.  ii.  6.  Who  being  in  the  form  of  God,  thought  it  not 


tfhe  Larger  Catechism.  2 1 1 

Q.  47.  How  did  Christ  humble  himself  in  his 
conception  and  birth  f 

A.  Christ  humbled  himself  in  his  conception 
and  birth,  in  that,  being  from  all  eternity  the  Son 
of  God,  in  the  bosom  of  the  Father,  he  was 
pleased  in  the  fulness  of  time,  to  become  the  Son 
of  man,  made  of  a  woman  of  low  estate,  and  to  be 
born  of  her  ;  with  divers  circumstances  of  more 
than  ordinary  abasement.* 

Q.  48.  How  did  Christ  humble  himself  in  his  life? 

A.  Christ  humbled  himself  in  his  life,  by  sub- 
jecting himself  to  the  law,?;  which  he  perfectly 
fulfilled  \w  and  by  conflicting  with  the  indignities 


robbery  to  be  equal  with  God:  v.  7.  But  made  himself  of  no  reputa- 
tion, and  took  upon  him  the  form  of  a  servant,  and  was  made  in  the 
likeness  of  men:  v.  8.  And  being  found  in  fashion  as  a  man,  he 
humbled  himself,  and  became  obedient  unto  death,  even  the  death 
of  the  cross.  Luke  i.  31.  And  behold,  thou  shalt  conceive  in  thy 
womb,  and  bring  forth  a  son,  and  shalt  call  his  name  Jesus.  2  Cor. 
viii.  9.  For  ye  know  the  grace  of  our  Lord  Jesus  Christ,  that  though 
he  was  rich,  yet  for  your  sakes  he  became  poor,  that  ye  through  his 
poverty  might  be  rich.  Adfcs  ii.  24.  Whom  God  hath  raised  up, 
having  loosed  the  pains  of  death:  because  it  was  not  possible  that  he 
should  be  holden  of  it. 

47.  /  John  i.  14.  And  the  Word  was  made  flesh,  and  dwelt  among 
us  (and  we  beheld  his  glory,  the  glory  as  of  the  only  begotten  of  the 
Father),  full  of  grace  and  truth,  v.  18.  No  man  hath  seen  God  at 
any  time;  the  only  begotten  Son,  which  is  in  the  bosom  of  the  Fa- 
ther, he  hath  declared  him.  Gal.  iv.  4.  But  when  the  fulness  of  the 
tjme  was  come,  God  sent  forth  iiis  Son  made  of  a  woman,  made  un- 
der the  law.  Luke  ii.  7.  And  she  brought  forth  her  first-born  son, 
and  wrapped  him  in  swaddling  clothes,  and  laid  him  in  a  manger, 
because  there  was  no  room  for  them  in  the  inn. 

48.  v  Gal.  iv.  4.  But  when  the  fulness  of  the  time  was  come,  God 
sent  forth  his  Son  made  of  a  woman,  made  under  the  law. 

10  Mat.  v.  1 7.  Think  not  that  I  am  come  to  destroy  the  law  or  the 
prophets:  I  am  not  come  to  destroy,  but  to  fulfil.  Rom.  v.  19. 
For  as  by  one  man's  disobedience  many  were  made  sinners,  so  by 
the  obedience  of  one  shall  many  be  made  righteous. 


death  * 


2 1 2  The  Larger  Catechism. 

of  the  world,*  temptations  of  Satan,^  and  infir- 
mities in  his  flesh,  whether  common  to  the  nature 
of  man,  or  particularly  accompanying  that  his 
low  condition. s 

Q^49-  How  did  Christ  humble  himself  in  his 
f 

A.  Christ  humbled  himself  in  his  death,  in  that 
having  been  betrayed  by  Judas, a  forsaken  by  his 
disciples, £   scorned  and  rejected  by  the  world,*: 

x  Psal.  xxii.  6.  Cut  I  am  a  worm,  and  no  man;  a  reproach  of 
men,  and  despised  of  the  people.  Heb.  xii.  2.  Rooking  unto  Jesus 
the  author  and  finisher  of  our  faith;  who,  for  the  joy  that  was  set  be- 
fore him,  endured  the  cross,  despising  the  shame,  and  is  set  down  at 
the  right  hand  of  the  throne  of  God.  v.  3.  For,  consider  him  that 
endured  such  contradiction  of  sinners  against  himself,  lest  ye  be 
wearied,  and  faint  in  your  minds. 

y  Mat.  iv.  1.  to  verse  12.  Then  was  Jesus  led  up  of  the  Spirit  into 
the  wilderness,  to  be  tempted  of  the  devil,  &x.  Luke  iv.  13.  And 
when  the  devil  had  ended  all  the  temptation,  he  departed  from  him 
for  a  season. 

z  Hcb.  ii.  1 7.  Wherefore  in  all  things  it  behoved  him  to  be  made 
like  unto  his  brethren;  that  he  might  be  a  merciful  and  faithful  high 
priest,  in  things  pertaining  to  God,  to  make  reconciliation  for  the 
sins  of  the  people,  v.  18.  For  in  that  he  himself  hath  suffered,  be- 
ing tempted,  he  is  able  to  succour  them  that  are  tempted.  Heb.  iv. 
35.  For'we  have  not  an  high  priest  which  cannot  be  touched  with 
the  feeling  of  our  infirmities;  but  was  in  all  points  tempted  like  as 
we  are,  yet  without  sin.  Isa.  lii.  13.  Behold,  my  servant  shall  deal 
prudently,  he  shall  be  exalted  and  extolled,  and  be  very  high.  v.  14. 
As  many  were  astonished  at  thee;  his  visage  was  so  marred  more 
than  anv  man,  and  his  form  more  than  the  sons  of  men. 

49.  a  Mat.  xxvii.  4.  Saying,  I  have  sinned,  in  that  I  have  betray- 
ed the  innocent  blood.  And  they  said,  What  is  that  to  us?  see  thou 
to  that. 

b  Mat.  xxvi.  56.  But  all  this  was  done,  that  the  scriptures  of  the 
prophets  might  be  fulfilled.  Then  all  the  disciples  forsook  him  and 
fled. 

c  Isa.  liii.  2.  For  he  shall  grow  up  before  him  as  a  tender  plant, 
and  as  a  root  out  of  a  dry  ground:  he  hath  no  form  nor  comeliness: 
and  when  we  shall  see  him,  there  is  no  beauty  that  we  should  desire 
him.  v.  3  He  is  despised  and  rejected  of  men,  a  man  of  sorrows, 
and  acquainted  with  grief:  and  we  hid  as  it  were  our  faces  from  him  j 
lie  was  despised,  and  we  esteemed  him  not. 


The  Larger  Catechism.  2 1 3 

condemned  by  Pilate,  and  tormented  by  his  per- 
secutors ;d  having  also  conflicted  with  the  terrors 
of  death,  and  the  powers  of  darkness,  felt  and 
borne  the  weight  of  God's  wraths  he  laid  down 
his  life  an  offering  for  sin/  enduring  the  painful, 
shameful,  and  cursed  death  of  the  cross.g 

Q.   50.  Wherein  consisted  Christ's   humiliation 

after  his  death  ? 

A.  Christ's  humiliation  after  his  death  consisted 
in  his  bein^-  buried, h  and  continuing  in  the  state 
of  the  dead?  and  under  the  power  of  death  till  the 
third  day;/  which  hath  been  otherwise  expressed 
jn  these  words,  He  descended  into  hell. 

d  Mat.  xxvii.  26.  to  verse  50.  Then  released  he  Barrabbas  unto 
them:  and  when  he  had  scourged  Jesus,  he  delivered  him  to  be 
crucified,  &c.  John  xix.  34.  But  one  of  the  sokhers  with  a  spear 
pierced  his  side,  and  forthwith  came  there  out  blood  and  water. 

e  Luke  xxii.  44.  And  being  in  an  agony,  he  prayed  more  earnest- 
ly; and  his  sweat  was  as  it  were  great  drops  of  blood  falling  down  to 
the  ground.  Mat.  xxvii.  46.  And  about  the  ninth  hour  Jesus  cr.ed 
with  a  loud  voice,  saying,  Eli,  Eli,  lama  sabachthani?  that  is  to  say, 
Mv  God,  my  God,  why  hast  thou  forsaken  me? 

/Isa.  liii.  10.  Yet  it  pleased  the  Lord  to  bruise  him,  he  hath  put 
him  to  grief:  when  thou  shalt  make  his  soul.an  offering  for  sin,  he 
shall  see  his  seed,  he  shall  prolong  his  days,  and  the  pleasure  of  the 
Lord  shall  prosper  in  his  hand. 

g  Phil.  ii.  8.  And  being  found  in  fashion  as  a  man,  he  humbled 
himself,  and  became  obedient  unto  death,  even  the  death  of  the  cross. 
Heb.  xii.  2.  Looking  unto  Jesus  the  author  and  finisher  of  our  faith; 
who,  for  the  joy  that  was  set  before  him,  endured  the  cross,  despising 
the  shame,  and  is  set  down  at  the  right  hand  of  the  throne  of  God. 
Gal.  iii.  13.  Christ  hath  redeemed  us  from  the  curse  of  the  law,  be- 
ing made  a  curse  for  us:  for  it  is  written,  Cursed  is  every  one  that 
hangeth  on  a  tree.  * ■■'• 

cb.  h  1  Cor.  xv.  3.  For  I  delivered  unto  you  first  of  all,  that 
which  I  also  received,  how  that  Christ  died  for  our  sins,  according 
to  the  scriptures:  v.  4.  And  that  he  was  buried,  and  that  he  rose 
again  the  third  day  according  to  the  scriptures.         ,  .     ,    „         .  , 

iPsal.  xvi.  10.  For  thou  wilt  not  leave  my  soiu  in  hell;  neither 
wilt  thou  suffer  thine  holy  One  to  see  corruption.  Compared  with 
A&sii.  24.  Whom  God  hath  raised  up,  having  loosed  the  pains  of 
death;  because  it  was  not  possible  that  he  should  be  holden  of  it 


2 1 4  T^t"  Larger  Catechism. 

Q^  5 1 .  What  was  the  estate  of  Christ's  exalt" 
ation  ? 

A.  The  estate  of  Christ's  exaltation  compre- 
hendeth  his  resurre6tion,/'  ascension,/  sitting  at 
the  right  hand  of  the  Father,;//  and  his  coming 
again  to  judge  the  world. n 

Q.  52.  How  was  Christ  exalted  in  his  resur* 
recUo7i  t 

A.  Christ  was  exalted  in  his  resurrection,  in 
that,  not  having  seen  corruption  in  death,  (of 
which  it  was  not  possible  for  him  to  be  held,o) 
and  having  the  very  same  body  in  which  he  suf-* 


v.  25.  For  David  speaketh  concerning  him,  I  foresaw  the  Lord  al- 
ways before  my  face,  for  he  is  on  my  right  hand,  that  I  should  not 
be  moved,  v.  26.  Therefore  did  my  heart  rejoice,  and  my  tongue 
■was  glad:  moreover  also  my  flesh  shall  rest  in  hope,  v.  27.  Be- 
cause thou  wilt  not  leave  my  soul  in  hell,  neither  wilt  thou  suffer 
thine  holy  One  to  see  corruption,  v.  31.  lie  seeing  this  before, 
spake  of  the  resurrection  of  Christ,  that  his  soul  was  not  lett  in  hell, 
neither  his  flesh  did  see  corruption.  Rom.  vi.  9.  Knowing  that 
Christ  being  raised  from  the  dead,  dieth  no  more;  death  hath  no'more 
dominion  over  him.  Mat.  xii.  40.  For  as  Joi-uis  was  three  days  and 
three  nights  in  the  whale's  belly,  so  shall  the  Son  of  man  be  three 
days  and  three  nights  in  the  heart  of  the  earth. 

51.  k  1  Cor.  xv.  4.  And  that  he  was  buried,  and  that  he  rose 
again  the  third  day  according  to  the  scriptures. 

/  Mark  xvi.  19.  So  then  alter  the  Lord  bad  spoken  unto  them,  he 
was  received  up  into  heaven,  and  sat  on  the  right  hand  of  God. 

m  Eph.  i.  20.  Which  he  wrought  in  Christ,  when  he  raised  him 
from  the  dead,  and  set  him  at  his  own  right  hand  in  the  heavenly 
places. 

n  Afts  i.  1 1.  Which  also  said,  Ye  men  of  Galilee,  why  stand  ye 
gazing  up  into  heav^i?  this  same  Jesus  which  is  taken  up  from  you 
into  heaven,  shall  so  come  in  like  manner  as  ye  have  seen  him  go  in- 
to heaven.  Acts  stvii.  51.  Because  lie  hath  appointed  a  day,  in  the 
which  he  will  judge  the  world  in  righteousness,  by  that  man  whom 
he  hath  ordained;  whereof  he  hath  given  assurance  unto  all  men,  in 
that  he  hatK  raised  him  from  the  dead. 

52.  0  A6ts  ii.  24.  Whom  God  hath  raised  up,  having  loosed  the 
pains  ot  death:  because  it  was  not  po>sib!c  that  he  should  be  holden 
of  it.  v.  27.  Because  thou  wilt  not  leave  my  soul  in  hell,  neither 
wilt  thou  suffer  thine  holy  One  to  see  corruption. 


The  Larger  Catecbis?n.  215 

fered,  with  the  essential  properties  thereof,^  (but 
without  mortality,  and  other  common  infirmities 
belonging  to  this  life)  really  united  to  his  -soul, a 
he  rose  again  from  the  dead  the  third  day  by  his 
own  power  ;r  whereby  he  declared  himself  to  be 
the  Son  ofGod,j  to  have  satisfied  divine  justice,/ 
to  have  vanquished  death,  and  him  that  had  the 
power  of  it,i;  and  to  be  Lord  of  quick  and  dead  iw 
all  which  he  did  as  a  public  person,*  the  head  of 
his  churchy  for  their  justification^  quickening 

]i  Luke  xxiv.  39.  Behold  my  hands  and  my  feet,  that  it  is  I  my- 
self: handle  me,  and  see,  for  a  spirit  hath  not  flesh  and  bones,  as  ye 
see  me  have. 

q  R.om.  vi.  9.  Knowing  that  Christ  being  raised  from  the  dead, 
dieth  no  more;  death  hath  no  more  dominion  over  him.  Rev.  i.  18. 
I  am  he  that  liveth,  and  was  dead ;  and  behold,  I  am  alive  forever- 
more,  Amen;  and  have  the  keys  of  hell  and  of  death. 

r  John  x.  18.  No  man  taketh  it  from  me,  but  I  lay  it  down  of 
myself:  I  have  power  to  lay  it  down,  and  I  have  power  to  take  it 
again.     This  commandment  have  I  received  of  my  Father. 

s  Rom.  i.  4.  And  declared  to  be  the  Son  of  God  with  power,  ac- 
cording to  the  Spirit  of  holiness,  by  the  resurrection  from  the  dead. 

t  Rom.  viii.  34.  Who  is  he  that  condemneth  ?  It  is  Christ  that 
died;  yea  rather,  that  is  risen  again;  who  is  even  at  the  right  hand 
of  God  ;  who  also  maketh  intercession  for  us. 

v  Heb.  ii.  14.  Forasmuch  then  as  the  children  are  partakers  of  flesh 
and  blood,  he  also  himself  likewise  took  part  of  the  same ;  that  through 
death  he  might  destroy  him  that  had  the  power  of  death,  that  is,  the 
devil. 

iu  Rom.  xiv.  9.  For  to  this  end  Christ  both  died,  and  rose,  and 
revived,  that  he  might  be  Lord  both  of  the  dead  and  living. 

x  1  Cor.  xv.  21.  For  since  by  man  came  death,  by  man  came  also 
the  resurrection  of  the  dead.  v.  22.  For  as  in  Adam  all  die,  even 
so  in  Christ  shall  all  be  made  alive. 

y  Eph.  i.  20.  Which  he  wrought  in  Christ,  when  he  raised  him 
from  the  dead,  and  set  him  at  his  own  right  hand  in  the  heavenly 
places,  v.  22.  And  hath  put  all  things  under  his  feet,  and  gave  hin'j 
to  be.  the  Head  over  all  things  to  the  church,  v.  23.  Which  is  his 
body,  the  fulness  of  him  that  filleth  all  in  all.  Col.  i.  1 8.  And  he  is 
the  head  of  the  body,  the  church:  who  is  the  beginning,  the  first- 
born from  the  dead;  that  in  all  things  he  might  have  the  pre-emi- 
nence. 

z  Rom.  iv.  25.  Who  was  delivered  for  our  offences,  and  was  raised 
again  for  our  justification. 


216  *fhe  Larger  Ca  tec  bis 

in  grace,#  support  against  enemies./  and  to  a>- 
sure  them  of  their  resurreclion  from  the  dead  at 
the  last  day.tf 

Q.  53.  Hoiv  was  Christ  exalted  in  bis  ascen- 
sion ? 

A.  Christ  was  exalted  in  his  ascension,  in  that 
having,  after  his  resurrection,  often  appeared  unto 
and  conversed  with  his  apostles,  speaking  to  them 
of  the  things  pertaining  to  the  kingdom  of  God,</ 
and  giving  them  commission  to  preach  the  gos- 
pel to  all  nations  ;e  forty  days  after  his  resurrec- 
tion, he,  in  our  nature,  and  as  our  head,/"  tri- 
umphing over  enemies^  visibly  went  up  into  the 

a  Eph.  ii.  1.  And  you  hath  he  quickened  who  were  dead  in  tres- 
passes and  sins.  v.  5.  Even  when  we  were  dead  in  sins  hath  quick- 
ened us  together  with  Christ,  'by  grace  ye  are  saved),  v.  6  And 
hath  raised  us  up  together,  and  made  us  sit  together  in  heavenly 
places  in  Christ  Jesus.  Col.  ii.  12.  Buried  with  him  in  baptism, 
wherein  also  ye  are  risen  with  him  through  the  faith  of  the  opera- 
tion of  God,  who  hath  raised  him  from  the  dead. 

h  1  Cor.  xv.  25.  For  he  must  reign,  till  he  hath  put  all  enemies 
under  his  feet.  v.  26.  The  last  enemy  that  shall  be  destroyed,  is 
death,  v.  27.  For  he  hath  put  all  things  under  his  feet.  But  when 
he  baith  All  things  are  put  under  him,  it  is  manifest  that  he  is  ex- 
cepted which  did  put  all  things  under  him. 

c  1  Cor  xv.  20.  But  now  is  Christ  risen  from  the  dead,  and  be- 
come the  first  fruits  of  them  that  slept. 

53.  d  Acts  i.  2.  Until  the  dav  in  which  he  was  taken  up,  after  that 
he  through  the  Holy  Ghost  had  given  commandments  unto  the  apos- 
tles whom  he  had  chosen,  v.  3.  To  whom  also  he  shewed  himself 
alive  after  his  passion,  by  mnny  infallible  proofs,  being  seen  of  them 
forty  davs,  and  speaking  of  the  things  pertaining  to  the  kingdom  of 
God. 

Mat.  xxviii.  19  Go  ye  therefore  and  teach  all  nations,  baptizing 
them  in  the  name  of  the  Father,  and  of  the  Son,  and  of  the  Holy 
Ghost:  v.  20.  Teaching  them  to  observe  all  things  whatsoever  I 
have  commanded  you:  and  io,  I  am  with  you  alway,  even  unto  the 
end  of  the  world.      Amen. 

f  Heb.  vi  20.  Whither  the  forerunner  is  for  us  entered,  even  Je- 
sus, made  an  high  priest  forever  after  the  order  of  Melchisedec. 

g  Eph  iv.  8.  Wherefore  he  saith,  When  he  ascended  upon  high, 
he  led  captivity  captive,  and  gave  gifts  unto  men. 


S'be  Larger  Catechism.  ziy 

highest  heavens,  there  to  receive  gifts  for  men,£ 
to  raise  up  our  affections  thither,/  and  to  prepare 
a  place  for  us,/6  where  himself  is,  and  shall  con- 
tinue till  his  second  coming,  at  the  end  of  the 
world./ 

Q.  54.  How  is  Christ  exalted  in  his  sitting  at 
the  right  hand  of  God? 

A.  Christ  is  exalted  in  his  sitting  at  the  right 
hand  of  God,  in  that  as  God-man  he  is  ad\spnced 
to  the  highest  favour  with  God  the  Father,^ 
with  all  fulness  of  joy,#  glory ,0  and  power  over 
all  things  in  heaven  and  earth  ;p  and  doth  gather 

•  h  Acts  i.  9.  And  when  he  had  spoken  these  things,  while  they  be- 
held, he  was  taken  up,  and  a  cloud  received  him  out  of  their  sight. 
v.  10.  And  while  they  looked  stedfastly  toward  heaven,  as  he  went 
up,  behold,  two  men  stood  by  them  in  white  apparel;  v.  n.  Which 
also  said,  Ye  men  of  Galilee,  why  stand  ye  gazing  up  into  heaven? 
this  same  Jesus  which  is  taken  up  from  you  into  heaven,  shall  so 
come  in  like  manner  as  ye  have  seen  him  go  into  heaven.  Eph.  iv. 
10.  He  that  descended,  is  the  same  also  that  ascended  up  tar  above  all 
heavens,  that  he  might  fill  all  things.  Psal.  lxviii.  18.  Thou  hast 
ascended  on  high,  thou  hast  led  captivity  captive:  thou  hast  received 
gifts  for  men ;  yea,  for  the  rebellious  also,  that  the  Lord  God  might 
dwell  among  them. 

i  Col.  iii.  1.  If  ye  then  be  risen  with  Christ,  seek  those  things 
which  are  above,  where  Christ  sitteth  on  the  right  hand  of  God.  v. 
2.  Set  your  affections  on  things  above,  not  on  things  on  the  earth. 

k  John  xiv.  3.  And  if  I  go  and  prepare  a  place  for  you,  I  will  come 
again,  and  receive  you  unto  myself,  that  where  I  am,  there  ye  may 
be  also. 

/  Acts  iii.  21.  Whom  the  heaven  must  receive,  until  the  times  of 
restitution  of  all  things,  which  God  hath  spoken  by  the  mouth  of  all 
his  holy  prophets,  since  the  world  began. 

54.  m  Phil.  ii.  9.  Wherefore  God  also  hath  highly  exalted  him, 
and  given  him  a  name  which  is  above  every  name. 

«  Acts  ii.  28.  Thou  hast  made  known  to  me  the  ways  of  life; 
thou  shalt  make  me  full  of  joy  with  thy  countenance.  Compared 
with  Psal.  xvi.  1 1.  Thou  wilt  shew  me  the  path  of  lite:  in  thy  pre- 
sence is  fulness  of  joy,  at  thy  right  hand  there  are  pleasures  forever- 
more. 

0  John  xvii.  5.  And  now,  O  Father,  glorify  thou  me  with  thine 
own  self,  with  the  glory  which  I  had  with  thee  before  the  world  was. 

Jt  Eph.  i.  22,  And  hath  put  all  things  under  his  feet,  and  gave  him 

2E 


2 1 8  tfhe  Larger  Catechism. 

and  defend  his  church,  and  subdue  their  enemies? 
furnisheth  his  ministers  and  people  with  gifts 
and  graces, y  and  maketh  intercession  for  them.r 
Q^  55.  How  doth  Christ  make  intercession  t 
A.  Christ  maketh  intercession,  by  his  appear- 
ing in  our  nature  continually  before  the  Father 
in  heaven,*  in  the  merit  of  his  obedience  and  sa- 
crifice on  earth,/  declaring  his  will  to  have  it  ap- 
plied to  all  believers,**;  answering  all  accusations 
against  them,iy  and  procuring  for  them  quiet  of 

to  be  the  head  over  aU  things  to  the  church,  i  Pet.  iii.  22.  Who  is 
gone  into  heaven,  and  is  on  the  right  hand  of  God,  angels,  and  au- 
thorities, and  powers  being  made  subject  unto  him. 

q  Eph.  iv.  10.  He  that  descended,  is  the  same  also  that  ascended 
up  far  above  all  heavens,  that  he  might  rill  all  things,  v.  11.  And 
he  gave  some,  apostles;  and  some,  prophets;  and  some,  evangelists; 
and  some,  pastors  and  teachers:  v.  12.  For  the  perfecting  of  the 
saints,  for  the  work  of  the  ministry,  for  the  edifying  of  the  body  of 
Christ.  Psal.  ex.  throughout.  The  Lord  said  unto  my  Lord,  Sit 
thou  at  my  right  hand,  until  I  make  thine  enemies  thy  footstool. 

r  Rom.  viii.  34.  Who  is  he  that  condemneth?  It  is  Christ  that 
died;  yea  rather,  that  is  risen  again;  who  is  even  at  the  right  hand  of 
God,  who  also  maketh  intercession  for  us. 

55.  j  Heb.  ix.  12.  Neither  by  the  blood  of  goats  and  calves,  but 
by  his  own  blood  he  entered  in  once  into  the  holy  place,  having  ob- 
tained eternal  redemption  for  us.  v.  24.  For  Christ  k  not  entered 
into  the  holv  places  made  with  hands,  which  are  the  figures  of  the 
true;  but  into  heaven  itself,  now  to  appear  in  the  presence  of  God 
for  us. 

t  Heb.  i.  3.  Who  being  the  brightness  of  his  glory,  and  the  ex- 
press image  of  his  person,  and  upholding  all  things  by  the  word  of 
his  power,  when  he  had  by  himself  purged  our  sins,  sat  down  on  the 
right  hand  of  the  Majesty  on  high. 

v  John  iii.  16.  For  God  so  loved  the  world,  that  he  gave  his  only 
begotten  Son,  that  whosoever  believeth  in  him,  should  not  perish, 
but  have  everlasting  life.  John  xvii.  9.  I  pray  for  them:  I  pray  not 
for  the  world,  but  tor  them  which  thou  hast  given  me,  for  they  are 
thine,  v.  20.  Neither  pray  I  for  these  alone,  but  tor  them  also 
which  shall  believe  on  me  through  their  word.  v.  24.  Father,  I  will 
that  they  also  whom  thou  hast  given  me  be  with  roc  where  I  am; 
that  they  may  behold  my  glory  which  thou  hast  given  me,  lor  thou 
lovedst  me  before  the  foundation  ol  the  world. 

•w  Rom.  viii.  33.  Who  shall  lay  any  thing  to  the  charge  of  God's 
elect  ?  It  is  God  that  justified! ;  v.  34.  Who  is  he  that  condemns.' 


The  Larger  Catechism.  %  1 9 

conscience  notwithstanding  daily  failings,*-  ac- 
cess with  boldness  to  the  throne  of  grace,?  and 
acceptance  of  their  persons, z  and  services. a 

Q.  56.  How  is  Christ  to  be  exalted  in  his  com- 
ing again  to  judge  the  world? 

A,  Christ  is  to  be  exalted  in  his  coming  again 
to  judge  the  world,  in  that  he,  who  was  unjustly 
judged  and  condemned  by  wicked  men,£  shall 
come  again  at  the  last  day  in  great  power,c  and 
in  the  full  manifestation  of  his  own  glory,  and  of 
his  Father's,  with  all  his  holy  angels, d  wittyi 

It  is  Christ  that  died ;  yea  rather,  that  is  risen  again  ;  who  is  even  at 
the  right  hand  of  God,  who  also  maketh  intercession  for  us. 

x  Rom.  v.  1.  Therefore,  being  justified  by  faith,  we  have  peace 
with  God,  through  our  Lord  Jesus  Christ;  v.  2.  By  whom  also  we 
have  access  by  faith  into  this  grace  wherein  we  stand,  and  rejoice  in 
hope  of  the  glory  of  God.  1  John  ii.  1.  My  little  children,  these 
things  write  I  unto  you,  that  ye  sin  not.  And  if  any  man  sin,  we 
have  an  advocate  with  the  Father,  Jesus  Christ  the  righteous:  v.  2. 
And  he  is  the  propitiation  for  our  sins;  and  not  for  ours  only,  but 
also  for  the  sins  of  the  whole  world. 

y  Heb.  iv.  16.  Let  us  therefore  come  boldly  unto  the  throne  of 
grace,  that  we  may  obtain  mercy,  and  find  grace  to  help  in  time  of 
need. 

z  Eph.  i.  6.  To  the  praise  of  the  glory  of  his  grace,  wherein  he 
hath  made  us  accepted  in  the  Beloved. 

a  1  Peter  ii.  5.  Ye  also,  as  lively  stones,  are  built  up  a  spiritual 
house,  an  holy  priesthood,  to  offer  up  spiritual  sacrifices,  acceptable 
to  God  by  Jesus  Christ. 

56.  b  Afts  iii.  14.  But  ye  denied  the  holy  One,  and  the  just,  and 
desired  a  murderer  to  be  granted  unto  you;  v.  15.  And  killed  the 
Prince  of  life,  whom  God  hath  raised  from  the  dead,  whereof  we  are 
witnesses. 

c  Mat.  xxiv.  30.  And  then  shall  appear  the  sign  of  the  Son  of 
man  in  heaven :  and  then  shall  all  the  tribes  of  the  earth  mourn,  and 
they  shall  see  the  Son  of  man  coming  in  the  clouds  of  heaven,  with 
power  and  great  glory. 

d  Luke  ix.  26.  For  whosoever  shall  be  ashamed  of  me  and  of  my 
words,  of  him  shall  the  Son  of  man  be  ashamed,  when  he  shall 
come  in  his  own  glory,  and  in  his  Father's,  and  of  the  holy  angels. 
Mat.  xxv.  31.  When  the  Son  of  man  shall  come  in  his  glory,  and 
all  the  holy  angels  with  him,  then  shall  he  sit  upon  the  throne  of  his 
glory. 


22o  7 'he  Larger  Catechism. 

shout,  with  the  voice  of  the  archangel,  and  with 
the  trumpet  of  God,e  to  judge  the  world  in  right- 
eousness/' 

Q^  <j~.  What  benefits  hath  Christ  procured  by 
his  mediation  f 

A.  Christ,  by  his  mediation,  hath  procured  re- 
demption,^ with  all  other  benefits  of  the  cove- 
nant of  graced 

Q.   58.  How  do  we  come  to  be  made  partakers  of 
the  benefit's  which  Christ  hath  procured  f 

A.  We  are  made  partakers  of  the  benefits  which 
Christ  hath  procured,  by  the  application  of  them 
■unto  us,/  which  is  the  work  especially  of  God  the 
Holv  Ghost.^ 

Q^  ^9.  Who  are  made  partakers  of  redemption 
through  Christ  ? 

A.  Redemption  is  certainly  applied,  and  effec- 
tually communicated,  to  all  those  for  whom  Christ 
hath  purchased  it ;/  who  are  in  time,  by  the  Holy 

e  i  Thess.  iv.  16.  For  the  Lard  himself  shall  descend  from  hea- 
ven with  a  shout,  with  the  voice  of  the  archangel,  and  with  the 
trump  of  God:  and  the  dead  in  Christ  shall  rise  first. 

f  Acts  xvii.  31.  Because  he  hath  appointed  a  day,  in  the  which 
he  will  judge  me  world  in  righteousness,  by  that  man  whom  he 
hath  ordained;  whereof  he  hath  given  assurance  unto  all  men,  in 
that  he  hath  raised  him  from  the  dead. 

57.  g  Heb.  ix.  12.  Neither  by  the  blood  of  goats  and  calves, 
but  by  nis  own  blood  he  entered  in  once  into  the  holy  place,  having 
obtained  eternal  redemption  for  us. 

h  2  Cor.  i.  20.  For  all  the  promises  of  God  in  him  are  yea,  and 
in  him  amen,  unto  the  glory  of  God  by  us. 

58.  i  John  i.  1 1.  He  came  unto  his  own,  and  his  own  received 
him  not.  v.  12.  But  as  many  as  received  him,  to  them  gave  he 
power  to  become  the  sons  of  God,  even  to  them  that  believe  on  his 
name. 

k  Tit.  hi.  5.  Not  by  works  of  righteousness  which  wc  have  done, 
but  according  to  his  mercy  he  saved  us,  by  the  washing  of  regenera- 
tion and  renewing  of  the  Holy  Ghost:  v.  6  Which  he  shed  on  us 
abundantly,  through  Jesus  Christ  our  Saviour. 

59  /  Eph.  i.  13.  la  whom  ye  also  trusted  after  that  ye  heard  the 


The  Larger  Catechism.  2  2  J 

Ghost,  enabled  to  believe  in  Christ  according  to 

the  gospel.w 

(Y  60.  Cfl»  /^  who  have  never  heard  the  gos~ 
p»l/and  so  know  not  Jesus  Christ,  nor  believe  in 
him,  be  saved  by  their  living  according  to  the  light 

of  nature?  »        1   1  1 

A.  They  who,  having  never  heard  the  gospel,* 
know  not  Jesus  Christ,?  and  believe  not  in  him, 
cannot  be  saved,/)  be  they  never  so  diligent  to 

word  of  truth,  the  gospel  of  vour  salvation  :  in  whom  also  after  that 
ve  believed,  ve  were  sealed  with  that  holy  Spirit  of  promise;  v  14. 
Which  is  the' earnest  of  our  inheritance,  until  the  redemption  of  the 
purchased  possession,  unto  the  praise  of  his  glory.  John  vj.  37. 
AH  that  the  Father  giveth  me  shall  come  to  me;  and  him  tnat 
cometh  unto  me  I  will  in  no  wise  cast  out.  v.  39  And  this  is  the 
F  trier's  will  which  hath  sent  me,  that  of  all  which  he  hath  given 
me  I  should  lose  nothing,  but  should  raise  it  up  again  at  the  last 
day  John  x  15.  As  the  Father  knoweth  me,  even  so  know  I  the 
Father-  and  I  lav  down  my  life  for  the  sheep,  v.  16.  And  other 
sheen  f  have,  which  are  not  of  this  fold:  them  also  I  must  bring, 
and  they  shall  hear  my  voice;  and  there  shall  be  one  fold,  and  one 

>1C»  Eph  ii.  8.  For  by  grace  are  ve  saved,  through  faith;  and  that 
not  of  yourselves:  it  is  the  gift  of  God.  2  Cor.  iv.  1  3.  We  having 
the  same  spirit  of  faith,  according  as  it  is  written,  I  believed,  and 
therefore  have  I  spoken:  we  also  believe,  and  therefore  speak. 

60  «  Rom.  x.  14.  How  then  shall  they  call  on  him  in  whom  they 
have  not  believed?  and  how  shall  they  believe  in  him  of  whom  they 
have  not  heard?  and  how  shall  they  hear  without  a  preacher? 

o2Thess.  i.  8.  In  naming  fire,  taking  vengeance  on  them  that 
know  not  God,  and  that  obey  not  the  gospel  of  our  Lord  Jesus 
Christ-  v.  9.  Who  shall  be  punished  with  everlasting  destruction 
from  the  presence  of  the  Lord,  and  from  the  glory  ot  his  power. 
Eph  ii  12.  That  at  that  time  ye  were  without  Christ,  being  aliens 
from  the  commonwealth  of  Israel,  and  strangers  from  the  covenants 
of  promise,  having  no  hope,  and  without  God  in  the  world.  John 
i  10.  He  was  in  the  world,  and  the  world  was  made  by  him,  and 
the  world  knew  him  not.  v.  11.  He  came  unto  his  own,  and  his 
own  received  him  not.  v.  1 2.  But  as  many  as  received  him,  to  them 
gave  he  power  to  become  the  sons  of  God,  even  to  them  that  be- 
lieve on  his  name.  ,.    . 

(1  John  viii.  24.  I  said  therefore  unto  you,  that  ye  shall  use  in  your 
sins:  for  if  ye  believe  not  that  I  am  he,  ye  shall  die  in  your  sins. 
Mark  xvi.  \h.  He  that  believeth  and  is  baptized,  shall  be  saved;  but 
he  that  believeth  not,  shall  be  damned. 


222  The  Larger  Catechism. 

frame  their  lives  according  to  the  light  of  nature,^ 
or  the  law  of  that  religion  which  they  profess  ;r 
neither  is  their  salvation  in  any  other,  but  in 
Christ  alone,j  who  is  the  Saviour  only  of  his  body, 
the  church./ 

Q^  6 1 .  Are  all  they  saved  who  hear  the  gospel T, 
and  live  in  the  church  ? 

A.  All  that  hear  the  gospel,  and  live  in  the 
visible  church,  are  not  saved :  but  they  only  who 
are  true  members  of  the  church  invisible.^ 

q  i  Cor.  i.  20.  Where  is  the  wise?  where  is  the  scribe?  where  is 
the  disputer  of  this  world?  hath  not  God  made  foolish  the  wisdom 
of  this  world?  v.  21.  For  after  that,  in  the  wisdom  of  God,  the 
world  by  wisdom  knew  not  God,  it  pleased  God  by  the  foolishness 
of  preaching,  to  save  them  that  believe,  v.  22.  For  the  Jews  re- 
quire a  sign,  and  the  Greeks  seek  after  wisdom:  v.  23.  But  we 
preach  Christ  crucified,  unto  the  Jews  a  stumbling-block,  and  unto 
the  Greeks  foolishness;  v.  24.  But  unto  them  which  are  called,  both 
Jews  and  Greeks,  Christ  the  power  of  God,  and  the  wisdom  of  God. 
r  John  iv.  22.  Ye  worship  ye  know  not  what:  we  know  what  we 
worship:  for  salvation  is  of  the  Jews.  Rom.  ix.  31.  But  Israel, 
which  followed  after  the  law  of  righteousness,  hath  not  attained  to 
the  law  of  righteousness,  v.  32.  Wherefore?  Because  they  sought 
it  not  by  faith,  but  as  it  were  by  the  works  of  the  law :  for  they 
stumbled  at  that  stumbling-stone.  Phil.  iii.  4.  Though  I  might  also 
have  confidence  in  the  tiesh.  If  any  other  man  thinketh  that  he 
hath  whereof  he  might  trust  in  the  flesh,  I  more:  v.  5.  Circumcised 
the  eighth  day,  of  the  stock  of  Israel,  of  the  tribe  of  Benjamin,  an 
Hebrew  of  the  Hebrews;  as  touching  the  taw,  a  Pharisee;  v.  6. 
Concerning  zeal,  persecuting  the  church;  touching  me  righteousness 
which  is  in  the  law,  blameless,  v.  7.  But  what  things  were  gain  to 
me,  those  I  counted  loss  for  Christ,  v.  8.  Yea  doubtless,  and  I  count 
all  things  but  loss,  for  the  excellency  of  the  knowledge  of  Christ  Je- 
sus my  Lord:  for  whom  I  have  suffered  the  loss  of  all  things,  and 
do  count  them  but  dung  that  I  may  win  Christ,  v.  9.  And  be  found 
in  him,  not  having  mine  own  righteousness,  which  is  of  the  law, 
but  that  which  is  through  the  faith  of  Christ,  the  righteousness  which 
is  of  God  by  faith. 

s  Acls  iv.  12.  Neither  is  there  salvation  in  any  other:  for  there  is 
none  other  name  under  heaven  given  among  men  whereby  we  must 
be  saved. 

t  Eph.  v.  23.  For  the  husband  is  the  head  of  the  wife,  even  as 
Christ  is  the  head  of  the  church:  and  he  is  the  Saviour  of  the  body. 

61.  v  John  xii.  38.  That  the  saying  of  Esaias  the  prophet  might 


The  Larger  Catechism. 


222 


Q^62.  What  is  the  visible  church  f 

A.  The  visible  church  is  a  society  made  up  of 
all  such  as  in  all  ages  and  places  of  the  world  do 
profess  the  true  religion,w  and  of  their  children.* 

be  fulfilled,  which  he  spake,  Lord,  who  hath  believed  our  report? 
and  to  whom  hath  the  arm  of  the  Lord  been  revealed?  v.  39.  There- 
fore they  could  not  believe,  because  that  Esaias  said  again,  v.  40. 
He  hath  blinded  their  eyes,  and  hardened  their  heart;  that  thev 
should  not  see  with  their  eyes,  nor  understand  with  their  heart,  and 
be  converted,  and  I  should  heal  them.  Rom.  ix.  6.  Not  as  though 
the  word  of  God  hath  taken  none  effeft.  For  they  are  not  all  Israel, 
which  are  of  Israel.  Mat.  xxii.  14.  For  many  are  called,  but  few 
are  chosen.  Mat.  vii.  21.  Not  every  one  that  saith  unto  me,  Lord, 
Lord,  shall  enter  into  the  kingdom  of  heaven:  but  he  that  doth  the 
will  of  my  Father  which  is  in  heaven.  Rom.  xi.  7.  What  then? 
Israel  hath  not  obtained  that  which  he  seeketh  for;  but  the  election 
hath  obtained  it,  and  the  rest  were  blinded. 

62.  10  1  Cor.  i.  2.  Unto  the  church  of  God,  which  is  at  Corinth, 
to  them  that  are  sanctified  in  Christ  Jesus,  called  to  be  saints,  with 
all  that  in  every  place  call  upon  the  name  of  Jesus  Christ  our  Lord, 
both  theirs  and  ours.  1  Cor.  xii.  13.  For  by  one  Spirit  are  we  all 
baptized  into  one  body,  whether  we  be  Jews  or  Gentiles,  whether 
we  be  bond  or  free;  and  have  been  all  made  to  drink  into  one  Spirit. 
Rom.  xv.  9.  And  that  the  Gentiles  might  glorify  God  for  his  mercy; 
as  it  is  written,  For  this  cause  I  will  confess  to  thee  among  the  Gen- 
tiles, and  sing  unto  thy  name.  v.  10.  And  again,  he  saith,  Rejoice 
ye  Gentiles,  with  his  people,  v.  11.  And  again,  Praise  the  Lord, 
all  ye  Gentiles,  and  laud  him,  all  ye  people,  v.  12.  And  again 
Esaias  saith,  There  shall  be  a  root  of  Jesse,  and  he  that  shall  rise  to 
reign  over  the  Gentiles,  in  him  shall  the  Gentiles  trust.  Rev.  vii.  9. 
After  this  I  beheld,  and  lo,  a  great  multitude,  which  no  man  could 
number,  of  all  nations,  and  kindreds,  and  people,  and  tongues 
stood  before  the  throne,  and  before  the  Lamb,  clothed  with  white 
robes,  and  palms  in  their  hands.  Psal.  ii.  8.  Ask  of  me,  and  I  shall 
give  thee  the  heathen  for  thine  inheritance,  and  the  uttermost  parts 
of  the  earth  for  thy  possession.'  Psal.  xxii.  27.  All  the  ends  of  the 
world  shall  remember  and  turn  unto  the  Lord:  and  all  the  kindreds 
of  the  nations  shall  worship  before  thee.  v.  28.  For  the  kingdom 
is  the  Lord's:  and  he  is  the  governor  among  the  nations,  v.  29. 
All  they  that  be  fat  upon  earth  shall  eat  and  worship:  all  they  that 
go  down  to  the  dust  shall  bow  before  him,  and  none  can  keep  alive 
his  own  soul.  v.  30.  A  seed  shall  serve  him;  it  shall  be  accounted 
to  the  Lord  for  a  generation,  v.  31.  They  shall  come,  and  bhail 
declare  his  righteousness  unto  a  people  that  shall  be  born,  that  he 
hath  done  this.  Psal.  xlv.  17.  I  will  make  thy  name  to  be  remem- 
bered in  all  generations :  therefore  shall  the  people  praise  thee  forever 


224  *£he  'Larger  Catechism. 

Q^  63.  What  are  the  special  privileges  of  the 
visible  church  ? 

A.  The  visible  church  hath  the  privilege  cf 
being  under  God's  special  care  and  government  \y 
of  being  protected  and  preserved  in  all  ages,  not- 
withstanding the  opposition  of  all  enemies  \%  and 

and  ever.  Mat.  xxviii.  19.  Go  ye  therefore  and  teach  all  nations, 
baptizing  them  in  the  name  of  the  Father,  and  ot  tht  Son,  ai.d  or  the 
Holy  GiiOJt:  v.  20.  Teaching  them  to  observe  all  things  whatsoever 
I  have  commanded  you:  and  lo,  I  am  with  you  alway,  even  unto 
the  end  of  the  world.  Amen.  La.  lix.  21.  As  lor  me,  this  is  my 
covenant  with  them,  saith  the  Lord,  My  Spirit  that  is  uf  on  ti.ee, 
and  my  words  which  I  have  put  in  thy  mouth,  shall  not  depart  out 
of  thy  mouth,  nor  out  of  the  mouth  of  thy  seed,  nor  out  of  the 
mouth  of  thy  seed's  seed,  saith  the  Lord,  Irom  henceforth  and  for- 
ever. 

x  I  Cor.  vii.  14.  For  the  unbelieving  husband  is  sanctified  by  the 
wife,  and  the  unbelieving  wile  is  sanctified  by  the  husband;  else 
were  your  children  unclean;  but  now  are  they  holy.  Acts  ii.  39. 
For  the  promise  is  unto  you,  and  to  your  children,  and  to  ah  that 
are  afar  off,  even  as  many  as  the  Lord  our  God  shall  call.  Rom. 
xi.  16.  For  if  the  first  fruit  be  holy,  the  lump  is  also  hoh  :  and  if  the 
root  be  holy,  so  are  the  branches.  Gen.  wii.  7.  And  I  will  es- 
tablish my  covenant  between  me  and  thee,  and  ttiy  seed  alter  thee 
in  their  generation^,  for  an  everlasting  covenant;  to  be  a  God  unto 
thee,  and  to  thy  seed  after  thee. 

6yy  La.  iv.  5.  And  the  Lord  will  create  upon  every  dwelling 
place  of  mount  Zion,  and  upon  her  assemblies,  a  cloud  and  smoke 
by  day,  and  the  shining  of  a  flaming  Hie  by  night:  for  upon  all  the 
glory  shall  be  a  defence,  v.  6.  And  there  shall  be  a  tabernacle  for 
a  shadow  in  the  day  time  from  the  heat,  and  for  a  place  ot  refuge, 
and  for  a  covert  from  storm  and  from  rain.  1  Tim.  iv.  10.  For 
therefore  we  both  labour,  and  suffer  reproach,  because  we  trust  in 
the  living  God,  who  is  the  Saviour  of  all  men,  especially  of  those  that 
believe. 

z  (Psal.  cxv.  throughout.)  v.  1.  Not  unto  us,  O  Lord,  not  unto 
us,  but — v.  2.  Wherefore  should  the  heathen  say,  Wnere  is  now 
their  God?  isfc.  v.  9.  O  Israel,  trust  thou  in  the  Lord:  he  is  their 
help  and  their  shield,  &V.  La.  xxxi.  4.  For  thin  hath  the  Lord 
spoken  unto  me,  Like  as  the  lion  and  the  young  lion  roaring  on  his 
prey,  when  a  multitude  ot  shepherds  is  called  forth  against  him,  he 
will  not  be  afraid  ot  their  voice,  nor  abase  himsell  lor  the  noise  of 
them  :  so  shail  the  Lord  of  host.-*  come  down  to  fight  lor  mount  Zion, 
and  lor  the  hill  thereof,  v.  5.  As  birds  flying,  so  will  the  Lord  of 
hosts  defend  Jerusalem;  defending  also  he  will  deliver  it,  and  passing 


I'he  Larger  Catechism.  225 

of  enjoying  the  communion  of  saints,  the  ordinary 
means  of  salvation, <z  and  offers  of  grace  by  Christ 
to  all  the  members  of  it  in  the  ministry  of  the  gos- 
pel, testifying,  that  whosoever  believes  in  him 
shall  be  saved,^  and  excluding  none  that  will  come 
unto  him.r. 

Q^  64.  What  is  the  invisible  church  f 
A.  The  invisible  church  is  the  whole  number 
of  the  elect,  that  have  been,  are,  or  shall  be  ga- 
thered into  one  under  Christ  the  head.^/ 

over  he  will  preserve  it.  2ech.  xii.  2.  Behold,  I  will  make  Jerusa- 
lem a  cup  of  trembling  unto  all  the  people  round  about,  when  they 
shall  be  in  the  siege  both  against  Judah,  and  against  Jerusalem,  v.  3. 
And  in  that  day  will  I  make  Jerusalem  a  burdensome  stone  for  all 
people:  all  that  burden  themselves  with  it  shall  be  cut  in  pieces, 
though  all  the  people  of  the  earth  be  gathered  together  against  it.  v. 
4.  In  that  day,  saith  the  Lord,  I  will  smite  every  horse  with  astonish- 
ment, and  his  rider  with  madness,  and  I  will  open  mine  eyes  upon 
the  house  of  Judah,  and  will  smite  every  horse  of  the  people  with 
blindness,  v,  8.  In  that  day  shall  the  Lord  defend  the  inhabitants  of 
Jerusalem,  and  he  that  is  feeble  among  them  at  that  day  shall  be  as 
David;  and  the  house  of  David  shall  be  as  God,  as  the  angel  of  the 
Lord  before  them.  v.  9.  And  it  shall  come  to  pass  in  that  day,  that 
I  will  seek  to  destroy  all  the  nations  that  come  against  Jerusalem. 

a  Acts  ii.  39.  For  the  promise  is  unto  you,  and  to  your  children, 
and  to  all  that  are  afar  off,  even  as  many  as  the  Lord  our  God  shall 
call.  v.  42.  And  they  continued  stedfastly  in  the  apostles'  doctrine 
and  fellowship,  and  in  breaking  of  bread,  and  in  prayers. 

b  Psal.  cxlvii.  19.  He  sheweth  his  word  unto  Jacob,  his  statutes 
and  his  judgments  unto  Israel,  v.  20.  He  hath  not  dealt  so  with  any 
nation:  and  as  for  his  judgments,  they  have  not  known  them.  Praise 
ye  the  Lord.  Rom.  ix.  4.  Who  are  Israelites;  to  whom  pertaineth 
the  adoption,  and  the  glory,  and  the  covenants,  and  the  giving  of 
the  law,  and  the  service  of  God,  and  the  promises.  Eph.  iv.  1 1. 
And  he  gave  some,  apostles;  and  some,  prophets;  and  some,  evan- 
gelists; and  some,  pastors  and  teachers,  v.  12.  For  the  perfecting 
of  the  saints,  for  the  work  of  the  ministry,  for  the  edifying  of  the 
body  of  Christ.  Mark  xvi.  15.  And  he  said  unto  them,  Go  ye 
into  all  the  world,  and  preach  the  gospel  to  every  creature,  v.  16. 
He  that  believeth  and  is  baptized,  shall  be  saved;  but  he  that  be- 
lieveth  not,  shall  be  damned. 

c  John  vi.  37.  All  that  the  Father  giveth  me  shall  come  to  me; 
and  him  that  cometh  to  me  I  will  in  no  wise  cast  out. 

.64.  d  Eph.  i,  10,  That  in  the  dispensation  of  the  fulness  of  times, 

2F 


22 6  The  Larger  Catechism. 

Q.  65.  What  special  benefits  do  the  members  of 
the  invisible  church  enjoy  by  Christ  ? 

A.  The  members  of  the  invisible  church,  by 
Christ,  enjoy  union  and  communion  with  him  in 
grace  and  glory .e 

Q^  66.  What  is  that  union  which  the  elecl  have 
with  Christ  ? 

A.  The  union  which  the  elecl  have  with  Christ 
is  the  work  of  God's  grace^  whereby  they  are 
spiritually  and  mystically,  yet  really  and  insepa- 
rably joined  to  Christ  as  their  Head  and  Hus- 
band ;g  which  is  done  in  their  effe&ual  calling.^ 

he  might  gather  together  in  one  all  things  in  Christ,  both  which  are 
in  heaven,  and  which  are  on  earth,  even  in  him.  v.  22.  And  hath 
put  all  things  under  his  feet,  and  gave  him  to  be  the  head  over  all 
things  to  the  church,  v.  23.  Which  is  his  body,  the  fulness  of  him 
that  filleth  all  in  all.  John  x.  16.  And  other  sheep  I  haverwhich  are 
not  of  this  fold:  them  also  I  must  bring,  and  they  shall  hear  my 
voice;  and  there  shall  be  one  fold,  and  one  shepherd.  John  xi.  52. 
And  not  for  that  nation  only,  but  that  also  he  should  gather  together 
in  one,  the  children  of  God  that  were  scattered  abroad. 

65.  e  John  xvii.  21.  That  they  all  may  be  one,  as  thou,  Father, 
art  in  me,  and  I  in  thee;  that  they  also  may  be  one  in  us:  that  the 
world  may  believe  that  thou  hast  sent  me.  Eph.  ii.  5.  Even  when 
we  were  dead  in  sins,  hath  quickened  us  together  with  Christ,  (by 
grace  ye  are  saved),  v.  6.  And  hath  raised  us  up  together,  and  made 
us  sit  together  in  heavenly  places  in  Christ  Jesus.  John  xvii.  24. 
Father,  I  will  that  they  also  whom  thou  hast  given  me  be  with  me 
where  I  am;  that  they  may  behold  my  glory  which  thou  hast  given 
me:  for  thou  lovedst  me  before  the  foundation  of  the  world. 

66./ Eph.  i.  22.  And  hath  put  all  things  under  his  feet,  and  gave 
him  to  be  the  head  over  all  things  to  the  church.  Eph.  ii.  6.  And 
hath  raised  us  up  together,  and  made  us  sit  together  in  heavenly 
places  in  Christ  Jesus:  v.  7.  That  in  the  ages  to  come  he  might 
shew  the  exceeding  riches  of  his  grace,  in  his  kindness  toward  us 
through  Christ  Jesus,  v.  8.  For  by  grace  are  ye  saved,  through 
faith;  and  that  not  of  yourselves:  it  is  the  gift  of  God. 

g  1  Cor.  vi.  17.  But  he  that  is  joined  unto  the  Lord,  is  one  spirit. 
John  x.  28.  And  J  give  unto  them  eternal  life;  and  they  shall  never 
perish;  neither  shah  any  pluck  them  out  of  my  hand.  Eph.  v.  23. 
For  the  husband  is  the  head  of  the  wife,  tven  as  Christ  is  the  head 
of  the  church:  and  he  ib  the  Saviour  of  the  body.  v.  30.  For  we 
3re  members  of  his  body,  of  his  ilesh,  and  of  his  bones. 

h  1  Ptt.  v.  10.  But  the  God  of  all  grace,  who  hath  called  us  unto 


Ithe  Larger  Catechism.  227 

Q.   67.  What  is  effectual  calling? 

A.  Effectual  calling  is  the  work  of  God's  al- 
mighty power  and  grace,?'  whereby  (out  of  his 
free  and  special  love  to  his  elecl,  and  from  nothino- 
in  them  moving  him  thereunto,/^)  he  doth,  in  his 
accepted  time,  invite  and  draw  them  to  Jesus 
Christ,   by  his  word   and  Spirit,/  savingly   en- 

his  eternal  glory  by  Christ  Jesus,  after  that  ye  have  suffered  a  while, 
make  you  perfect,  stablish,  strengthen,  settle  you.  i  Cor.  i.  9. 
God  is  faithful,  by  whom  ye  were  called  unto  the  fellowship  of  his 
Son  Jesus  Christ  our  Lord. 

67.  i  John  v.  25.  Verily,  verily,  I  say  unto  you,  The  hour  is 
coming,  and  now  is,  when  the  dead  shall  hear  the  voice  of  the  Son 
of  God:  and  they  that  hear  shall  live.  Eph.  i.  18.  The  eyes  of  your 
understanding  being  enlightened;  that  ye  may  know  what  is  the  hope 
of  his  calling,  and  what  the  riches  of  the  glory  of  his  inheritance  in 
the  saints;  v.  19.  And  what  is  the  exceeding  greatness  of  his  power 
to  us-ward  who  believe  according  to  the  working  of  his  mighty 
power,  v.  20.  Which  he  wrought  in  Christ,  when  he  raised  him 
from  the  dead,  and  set  him  at  his  own  right  hand  in  the  heavenly- 
places.  2  Tim.  i.  8.  Be  not  thou  therefore  ashamed  of  the  testi- 
mony of  our  Lord,  nor  of  me  his  prisoner:  but  be  thou  partaker 
of  the  afflictions  of  the  gospel,  according  to  the  power  of  God;  v. 
9.  Who  hath  saved  us,  and  called  us  with  an  holy  calling,  not  ac- 
cording to  our  works,  but  according  to  his  own  purpose,  and  orace 
which  was  given  us  in  Christ  Jesus,  before  the  world  began. 

.  k  Tit.  iii.  4.  But  after  that  the  kindness  and  love  of  God  our  Sa- 
viour toward  man  appeared,  v.  5.  Not  by  works  of  righteousness 
which  we  have  done,  but  according  to  his  mercy  he  saved  us  by  the 
washing  of  regeneration,  and  renewing  of  the  Holy  Ghost.  Eph. 
ii.  4.  But  God,  who  is  rich  in  mercy,  for  his  great  love  wherewith 
ye  loved  us  v.  5.  Even  when  we  were  dead  in  sins,  hath  quickened 
us  together  with  Christ,  (by  grace  ye  are  saved),  v.  7.  That  in 
the  ages  to  come  he  might  shew  the  exceeding  riches  of  his  grace,  in 
his  kindness  towards  us  through  Christ  Jesus,  v.  8.  For  by  grace 
are  ye  saved,  through  faith;  and  that  not  of  yourselves:  it  is  the  gift 
of  God:  v.  9.  Not  of  works,  lest  any  man  should  boast.  Rom. 
ix.  11.  For  the  children  being  not  yet  born,  neither  having  done  any 
good  or  evil,  that  the  purpose  of  God  according  to  election  might 
stand,  not  of  works,  but  of  him  that  calleth. 

/  2  Cor.  v.  20.  Now  then  we  are  ambassadors  for  Christ,  as  though 
God  did  beseech  you  by  us:  we  pray  you  in  Christ's  stead,  be  ye 
reconciled  to  God.  Compared  with  2  Cor.  vi.  1.  We  then,  as 
workers  together  with  him,  beseech  you  also  that  ye  receive  not  the 
grace  of  God  in  vain.    v.  2.  For  he  saith,  I  have  heard  thee  in  a 


228  ffle  Larger  Catechism. 

lightening  their  minds,w  renewing  and  powerfully 
determining  their  wills,^  so  as  they,  (although  in 
themselves  dead  in  sin)  are  herehy  made  willing 
and  able  freely  to  answer  his  call,  and  to  accept 
and  embrace  the  grace  offered  and  conveyed 
therein.© 

Q.   68.  Are  the  elecl  only  effectually  called? 

A.  All  the  elecl:,  and  they  only,  are  effectually 
called  ;J>  although  others  may  be,  and  often  are, 

time  accepted,  and  in  the  day  of  salvation  have  I  succoured  thee : 
behold,  now  b  the  accepted  time;  behold,  now  is  the  day  of  salva- 
tion. John  vi.  44.  No  man  can  come  to  me,  except  the  Father 
which  hath  sent  me,  draw  him:  and  I  will  raise  him  up  at  the  last 
day.  2  Thess.  ii.  13.  But  we  are  bound  to  give  thanks  alway  to  God 
for  you,  brethren,  beloved  of  the  Lord,  because  God  hath  from 
the  beginning  chosen  you  to  salvation,  through  sanclification  of  the 
Spirit,  and  belief  of  the  truth:  v.  14.  Whereunto  he  called  you  by 
our  gospel,  to  the  obtaining  of  the  glory  of  our  Lord  Jesus  Christ. 

m  Acts  xxvi.  j 8.  To  open  their  eyes,  and  to  turn  them  from  dark- 
ness to  light,  and  from  the  power  of  Satan  unto  God,  that  they  may 
receive  forgiveness  of  sins,  and  inheritance  among  them  which  are 
sanctified  by  faith  that  is  in  me.  1  Cor.  ii.  10.  But  God  hath  reveal- 
ed them  unto  us  by  his  Spirit:  for  the  Spirit  searcheth  all  things,  yea, 
the  dte;p  things  of  God.  v.  12.  Now  we  have  received,  not  the 
spirit  of  the  world,  but  the  Spirit  which  is  of  God;  that  we  might 
know  the  things  that  are  freely  given  to  us  of  God. 

n  Ezek.  xi.  19.  I  will  give  them  one  heart,  and  I  will  put  a  new 
spirit  within  you;  and  I  will  take  the  stony  heart  out  of  their  flesh, 
and  will  give  them  an  heart  of  flesh.  E^ek.  xxxvi.  26.  A  new  heart 
also  will  I  give  you,  and  a  new  spirit  will  I  put  within  you,  and  I 
■will  take  away  the  stony  heart  out  of  your  flesh,  and  I  will  give  you 
an  heart  of  flesh,  v.  27.  And  I  will  put  my  Spirit  within  you,  and 
cause  you  to  walk  in  my  statutes,  and  ye  shall  keep  my  judgments, 
and  do  them.  John  vi.  45.  It  is  written  in  the  prophets,  And  they 
shall  be  all  taught  of  God.  Every  man  therefore  that  hath  heard, 
and  hath  learned  of  the  Father,  cometh  unto  me. 

0  Eph.  ii.  5.  Even  when  we  were  dead  in  sins  hath  quickened  us 
together-  with  Christ,  (by  grace  ye  are  saved).  Phil.  ii.  13.  For  it  is 
God  which  worketh  in  you  both  to  will  and  to  do,  of  his  good  plea- 
sure. Deut.  xxx.  6.  And  the  Lord  thy  God  will  circumcise  thine 
heart,  and  the  "heart  of  thy  seed,  to  love  the  Lord  thy  God  with  all 
thine  heart,  and  with  all  thy  soul,  that  thou  mayest  live. 

68.//  Ads  xiii.  48.  And  when  the  Gentiles  heard  this,  they  were 
glad,  and  glorified  the  word  of  the  Lord;  and  as  many  a;  were  or- 
dained to  eternal  life  believed. 


*fhe  Larger  Catechism.  229 

outwardly  called  by  the  ministry  of  the  word,<7 
and  have  some  common  operations  of  the  Spirit  ;r 
who,  for  their  wilful  neglect  and  contempt  of 
the  grace  offered  to  them,  being  justly  left  in 
their  unbelief,  do  never  truly  come  to  Jesus 
Christ. j" 

Q^6o.  What  is  the  communion  in  grace  which 
the  members  of  the  invisible  church  have  with  Christ? 


q  Mat.  xxii.  14.  For  many  are  called,  but  few  are  chosen. 

r  Mat.  vii.  22.  Many  will  say  to  me  in  that  day,  Lord,  Lord,  have 
We  not  prophesied  in  thy  name?  and  in  thy  name  have  cast  out  de- 
vils? and  in  thy  name  done  many  wonderful  works?  Mat.  xiii.  20. 
But  he  that  received  the  seed  into  stony  places,  the  same  is  he  that 
heareth  the  word,  and  anon  with  joy  receiveth  it:  v.  21.  Yet  hath 
he  not  root  in  himself,  but  durethiora  while:  for  when  tribulation 
or  persecution  ariseth  because  of  the  word,  by  and  by  he  is  offended. 
Heb.  vi.  4.  For  it  is  impossible  for  those  who  were  once  enlightened, 
and  have  tasted  of  the  heavenly  gift,  and  were  made  partakers  of  the 
Holy  Ghost,  v.  5.  And  have  tasted  the  good  word  of  God,  and  the 
powers  of  the  world  to  come;  v.  6.  If  they  shall  fall  away,  to  renew 
them  again  unto  repentance. 

s  John  xii.  38.  That  the  saying  of  Esaias  the  prophet  might  be 
fulfilled  which  he  spake,  Lord,  who  hath  believed  our  report?  and 
to  whom  hath  the  arm  of  the  Lord  been  revealed ;  v.  39.  Therefore 
they  could  not  believe,  because  that  Esaias  said  again,  v.  40.  He 
hath  blinded  their  eyes,  and  hardened  their  heart;  that  they  should 
not  see  with  their  eyes,  nor  understand  with  their  heart,  and  be  con- 
verted, and  I  should  heal  them.  Acts  xxviii.  25.  Arud  when  they 
agreed  not  among  themselves,  they  departed,  after  that  Paul  had 
spoken  one  word,  Well  spake  the  Holy  Ghost  by  Esaias  the  prophet 
unto  our  fathers,  v.  26.  Saying,  Go  unto  this  people,  and  say, 
Hearing  ye  shall  hear,  and  shall  not  understand;  and  seeing  ye  shall 
see,  and  not  perceive,  v.  27.  For  the  heart  of  this  people  is  waxed 
gross,  and  their  ears  are  dull  of  hearing,  and  their  eyes  have  they 
closed;  lest  they  should  see  with  their  eyes,  and  hear  with  their  ears, 
and  understand  with  their  hearty  and  should  be  converted,  and  I 
should  heal  them.  John  vi.  64.  But  there  are  some  of  you  that  be- 
lieve not.  For  Jesus  knew  from  the  beginning,  who  they  were  that 
believed  not,  and  who  should  betray  him.  v.  65.  And  he  said, 
Therefore  said  I  unto  you,  that  no  man  can  come  unto  me,  except  it 
■were  given  unto  him  of  my  Father.  Psal.  lxxxi.  11.  But  my  people 
would  not  hearken  to  my  voice:  and  Israel  would  none  of  me.  v. 
22.  So  I  gave  them  up  unto  their  own  heart's  lust:  and  they  walked 
la  their  own  counsels. 


230  The  Larger  Catechism. 

A.  The  communion  in  grace,  which  the  mem- 
bers of  the  invisible  church  have  with  Christ,  is 
their  partaking  of  the  virtue  of  his  mediation,  in 
their  justification,/  adoption,^  sanclification,  and 
whatever  else,  in  this  life,  manifests  their  union 
with  him.w 

Q^  7  o .  What  is  justification  ? 

A.  Justification  is  an  a6t  of  God's  free  grace 
unto  sinners,*  in  which  he  pardoneth  all  their 
sins,  accepteth  and  accounteth  their  persons  right- 
eous in  his  sightly  not  for  any  thing  wrought  in 


69.  /  Rom.  viii.  30.  Moreover,  whom  he  did  predestinate,  them  he 
also  called:  and  whom  he  called,  them  he  also  justified ;  and  whom 
he  justified,  them  he  also  glorified. 

v  Eph.  i.  5.  Having  predestinated  us  unto  the  adoption  of  children 
by  Jesus  Christ  to  himself,  according  to  the  good  pleasure  of  his  will. 

w  1  Cor.  i.  30.  But  of  him  are  ye  in  Christ  Jesus,  who  of  God 
is  made  unto  us  wisdom,  and  righteousness,  and  sancYification,  and 
redemption. 

70.  x  Rom.  iii.  22.  Even  the  righteousness  of  God  which  is  by 
faith  of  Jesus  Christ  unto  all,  and  upon  all  them  that  believe;  for 
there  is  no  difference,  v.  24.  Bung  justified  freely  by  his  grace, 
through  the  redemption  that  is  in  Christ  Jesus:  v.  25.  Whom  God 
hath  set  forth  to  be  a  propitiation  through  faith  in  his  blood,  to  de- 
clarwhis  righteousness  for  the  remission  of  sins  that  are  past,  through 
the  forbearance  of  God.  Rom.  iv.  5.  But  to  him  that  worketh  not, 
but  believeth  on  him  that  justifieth  the  ungodly,  his  faith  is  counted 
for  righteousness. 

y  2  Cor.  v.  19.  To  wit,  that  God  was  in  Christ,  reconciling  the 
world  unto  himself,  not  imputing  their  trespasses  unto  them;  and 
hath  committed  unto  us  the  word  of  reconciliation,  v.  21.  For  he 
hath  made  him  to  be  sin  for  us,  who  knew  no  sin;  that  we  might 
be  made  the  righteousness  of  God  in  him.  Rom.  iii.  22.  Even  the 
righteousness  of  God  which  is  by  faith  of  Jesus  Christ  unto  all,  and 
upon  all  them  that  believe,  for  there  is  no  difference,  v.  24.  Being 
justified  freely  by  his  grace,  through  the  redemption  that  is  in  Christ 
Jesus:  v.  25.  Whom  God  hath  set  forth  to  be  a  propitiation 
through  faith  in  his  blood,  to  declare  his  righteousness  for  the  re- 
mission of  sins  that  are  past,  through  the  forbearance  of  God.  v.  27. 
Where  is  boasting  then?  It  is  excluded.  By  what  law?  of  works? 
Nay;  but  by  the  law  of  faith,  v.  28.  Therefore  we  conclude,  that 
a  man  is  justified  by  faith  without  the  deeds  of  the  law. 


'f/je  Larger  Catechism. 


221 


them,  or  done  by  them  ;z  but  only  for  the  perfect 
obedience  and  full  satisfaction  of  Christ,  by  God 
imputed  to  them,#  and  received  by  faith  alone.3 

Q.  71.  How  is  justification  an  acl  of  God's  free 
grace  f 

A.  Although  Christ,  by  his  obedience  and  death, 
did  make  a  proper,  real,  and  full  satisfaction  to 
God's  justice  in  the  behalf  of  them  that  are  justi- 
fied ;c  yet  in  as  much  as  God  accepteth  the  satis- 

z  Tit.  iii.  5.  Not  by  works  of  righteousness  which  we  have  done, 
but  according  to  his  mercy  he  saved  us  by  the  washing  of  regenera- 
tion, and  renewing  of  the  Holy  Ghost,  v.  7,  That  being  justified 
by  his  grace,  we  should  be  made  heirs  according  to  the  hope  of  eter- 
nal life.  Eph.  i.  7.  In  whom  we  have  redemption  through  his  blood, 
the  forgiveness  of  sins,  according  to  the  riches  of  his  grace. 

a  Rom.  v.  17.  For  if  by  one  man's  offence,  death  reigned  by  one; 
much  more  they  which  receive  abundance  of  grace  and  of  the  gift 
of  righteousness,  shall  reign  in  life  by  one,  Jesus  Christ,  v.  18. 
Therefore,  as  by  the  offence  of  one,  judgment  came  upon  all  men  to 
condemnation;  even  so  by  the  righteousness  of  one,  the  free  gift 
came  upon  all  men  unto  justification  of  life.  v.  19.  For  as  by  one 
man's  disobedience  many  were  made  sinners:  so  by  the  obedience 
of  one  shall  many  be  made  righteous.  Rom.  iv.  6.  Even  as  David 
also  describeth  the  blessedness  of  the  man  unto  whom  God  imputeth 
righteousness  without  works,  v.  7.  Saying,  Blessed  are  they  whose 
iniquities  are  forgiven,  and  whose  sins  are  covered,  v.  8.  Blessed  is 
the  man  to  whom  the  Lord  will  not  impute  sin. 

b  A6ts  x.  43.  To  him  give  all  the  prophets  witness,  that,  through 
his  name,  whosoever  believeth  in  him  shall  receive  remission  of  sins. 
Gal.  ii.  16.  Knowing  that  a  man  is  not  justified  by  the  works  of  the 
law,  but  by  the  faith  of  Jesus  Christ,  even  we  have  believed  in  Jesus 
Christ;  that  we  might  be  justified  by  the  faith  of  Christ,  and  not  by 
the  works  of  the  law;  for  by  the  works  of  the  law  shall  no  flesh  be 
justified.  Phil.  iii.  9.  And  be  found  in  him,  not  having  mine  own 
righteousness  which  is  of  the  law,  but  that  which  is  through  the 
faith  of  Christ,  the  righteousness  which  is  of  God  by  faith. 

71.  c  Rom.  v.  8.  But  God  commendeth  his  love  towards  us,  in 
that  while  we  were  yet  sinners  Christ  died  for  us.  v.  9.  Much  more 
then,  being  now  justified  by  his  blood,  we  shall  be  saved  from  wrath 
through  him.  v.  10.  For  if  when  we  were  enemies,  we  were  re- 
conciled to  God  by  the  death  of  his  Son;  much  more,  being  recon- 
ciled, we  shall  be  saved  by  his  life.  v.  19.  For  as  by  one  man's 
disobedience  many  were  made  sinners,  so  by  the  obedience  of  one 
shall  many  be  made  righteous. 


2  J  2  7/fe  Larger  Catechu; 

faction  from  a  Surety,  which  he  might  have  de- 
manded of  them,  and  did  provide  this  Surety,  his 
own  onlv  Son,*/  imputing  his  righteousness  to 
them,<?  and  requiring  nothing  of  them  for  their 


d  i  Tim.  ii.  £.  For  there  is  one  God,  and  one  Mediator  between 
God  and  man,  the  man  Christ  Jesus;  v.  6.  Who  gave  himself  a 
ransom  for  all,  to  be  testified  in  due  time.  Heb.  x.  10.  By  the  which- 
will  we  are  sanctified,  through  the  offering  of  the  body  of  Jesus 
Christ  once  for  all.  Mat.  xx.  28.  Even  as  the  Son  of  man  came 
not  to  be  ministered  unto,  but  to  minister,  and  to  give  his  life  a  ran- 
som for  many.  Dan.  ix.  24.  Seventy  weeks  are  determined  upon 
thy  people,  and  upon  thy  holy  city,  to  finish  the  transgression,  and 
to  make  an  end  of  sins,  and  to  make  reconciliation  for  iniquity,  and 
to  bring  in  everlasting  righteousness,  and  to  seal  up  the  vision  and 
prophecy,  and  to  anoint  the  most  Holy.  v.  26.  And  after  threescore 
and  two  weeks  shall  Messiah  be  cut  off,  but  not  for  himself:  and  the 
people  of  the  prince  that  shall  come,  shall  destroy  the  city,  and  the 
sanctuary,  and  the  end  thereof  shall  be  with  a  flood,  and  unto  the 
end  of  the  war  desolations  are  determined.  Isa.  liii.  4.  Surely  he 
hath  borne  our  griefs,  and  carried  our  sorrows:  yet  we  did  esteem 
him  stricken,  smitten  of  God,  and  afflicted,  v.  5.  But  he  was 
wounded  for  our  transgressions,  lie  was  bruised  for  our  iniquities: 
the  chastisement  of  our  peace  was  upon  him;  and  with  his  stripes  wc 
are  healed,  v.  6.  All  we  like  sheep  have  gone  astray;  we  have  turned 
every  one  to  his  own  way;  and  the  Lord  hath  laid  on  him  the  iniquity 
of  us  all.  v.  10.  Yet  it  pleased  the  Lord  to  bruise  him;  he  hath  put 
him  to  grief:  when  thou  shalt  make  his  soul  an  offering  for  sin,  he 
shall  see  his  seed,  he  shall  prolong  his  days,  and  the  pleasure  of  the 
Lord  shall  prosper  in  Ins  hand.  v.  1 1.  He  shall  see  of  the  travail  of 
his  soul,  and  shall  be  satisfied:  by  his  knowledge  shall  my  righteous 
servant  justify  many:  for  he  shall  ber.r  their  iniquities,  v.  12. 
Therefore  will  1  divide  him  a  portion  with  the  great,  and  he  shall  di- 
vide the  spoil  with  the  strong;  because  he  hath  poured  out  his  soul 
unto  death:  and  he  was  numbered  with  the  transgressors;  and  he  bare 
the  sin  of  many;  and  made  intercession  for  the  Transgressors.  Heb. 
vii.  22.  By  so'  much  was  Jesus  made  a  surety  ol  a  better  testament. 
Rom.  viii.  32.  He  that  spared  not  his  own  Son,  but  delivered  him 
up  for  us  all,  how  shall  he  not  with  him  also  freely  give  us  all  things? 
1  Pet.  i.  18.  Forasmuch  as  ye  know  that  ye  were  not  redeemed  with 
corruptible  things,  as  silver  and  gold,  from  your  vain  conversation 
received  by  tradition  from  your  fathers;  v.  19.  But  with  the  precious 
blood  of  Christ,  as  of  a  Lamb  without  blemish  and  without  spot. 

e  2  Cor.  v.  21.  For  he  hath  made  him  to  be  sin  for  us,  who  knew 
no  sin;  that  wc  might  be  made  the  righteousness  ol  God  in  him. 


"the  Larger  Catechism.  233 

justification  but  faith/'  which  also  is  his  gift,g 
their  justification  is  to  them  of  free  grace. h 

Q^  7  2 .   What  is  justifying  faith  ? 

A.  Justifying  faith  is  a  saving  grace,/  wrought 
in  the  heart  of  a  sinner  by  the  Spiriti  and  word 
of  God,/  whereby  he,  being  convinced  of  his  sin 
and  misery,  and  of  the  disability  in  himself  and 
all  other  creatures,  to  recover  him  out  of  his  lost 
condition ,?/z  not    only  assenteth  to  the  truth  of 

/Rom.  Hi.  24.  Being  justified  freely  by  his  grace,  through  the  re- 
demption that  is  in  Christ  Jesus:  v.  25.  Whom  God  hath  set  forth 
to  be  a  propitiation  through  faith  in  his  blood,  to  declare  his  right- 
eousness for  the  remission  of  sins  that  are  past,  through  the  forbear- 
ance of  God. 

g  Eph.  ii.  8.  For  by  grace  are  ye  saved,  through  faith;  and  that  not 
of  yourselves:  it  is  the  gift  of  God. 

h  Eph.  i.  7.  In  whom  we  have  redemption  through  his  blood,  the 
forgiveness  of  sins,  according  to  the  riches  of  his  grace. 

72.  i  Heb.  x.  39.  But  we  are  not  of  them  who  draw  back  unto 
perdition;  but  of  them  that  believe  to  the  saving  of  the  soul,  ^ 

k  2  Cor.  iv.  13.  We  having  the  same  Spirit  ot  faith,  according  as 
it  is  written,  I  believed,  and  therefore  have  I  spoken :  we  also  be- 
lieve, and  therefore  speak.  Eph.  i.  17.  That  the  God  of  our  Lord 
Jesus  Christ,  the  Father  of  glory,  may  give  unto  you  the  Spirit  of 
wisdom  and  revelation,  in  the  knowledge  of  him:  v.  18.  The  eyes 
of  your  understanding  being  enlightened;  that  ye  may  know  what 
is  the  hope  of  his  calling,  and  what  the  riches  of  the  glory  of  his  in- 
heritance in  the  saints;  v.  19.  And  what  is  the  exceeding  greatness 
of  his  power  to  us-ward,  who  believe  according  to  the  working  ot 
his  mighty  power. 

/Rom.  x.  14.  How  then  shall  they  call  on  him  in  whom  they 
have  not  believed?  and  how  shall  they  believe  in  him  of  whom  they 
have  not  heard?  and  how  shall  they  hear  without  a  preacher?  v.  17. 
So  then,  faith  cometh  by  hearing,  and  hearing  by  the  word  of  God. 

m  Acts  ii.  37.  Now  when  they  heard  this,  they  were  pricked  in 
their  heart,  and  said  unto  Peter  and  to  the  rest  of  the  apostles,  Men 
and  brethren,  what  shall  we  do?  A6te  xvi.  30.  And  brought  them 
out,  and  said,  Sirs,  what  must  I  do  to  be  saved?  John  xvi.  8.  And 
when  he  is  come,  he  will  reprove  the  world  of  sin,  and  of  righteous- 
ness, and  of  judgment:  v.  9.  Of  sin,  because  they  believe  not  in 
me.  Rom.  v.  6.  For  when  we  were  yet  without  strength,  in  due 
time  Christ  died  for  the  ungodly.  Eph.  ii.  1.  And  you  hath  he 
Quickened  who  were  dead  in  trespasses  and  sins.  Acts  iv.  12.  Nei- 
ther is  there  salvation  in  any  other:  for  there  is  none  other  name  un= 
der  heaven  given  among  men  wherebv  we  must  be  saved. 

2G 


234  'fhe  Larger  Catechism. 

the  promise  of  the  gospel,«  but  receiveth  and 
resteth  upon  Christ  and  his  righteousness  therein 
held  forth,  for  pardon  of  sin,c  and  for  the  accept- 
ing and  accounting  of  his  person  righteous  in  the 
sight  of  God  for  salvation.^ 

Q^  j 3.  How  doth  faith  justify  a  sinner  in  the 
sight  of  God? 

A.  Faith  justifies  a  sinner  in  the  sight  of  God, 
not  because  of  those  other  graces  which  do  always 
accompany  it,  or  of  good  works  that  are  the  fruits 
of  it,^  nor  as  if  the  grace  of  faith,  or  any  acl 
thereof,  were  imputed  to  him  for  his  justifica- 
tion ;r  but  only  as  it  is  an  instrument  by  which 
he  receiveth  and  applieth  Christ  and  his  righte- 
ousness..? 

«  Eph.  i.  13.  In  whom  ye  also  trusted  after  that  ye  heard  the  word 
of  truth,  tne  gospel  of  your  salvation:  in  whom  also,  after  that  yc 
believed,  ye  were  sealed  with  that  holy  Spirit  of  promise. 

0  John  i.  12.  But  as  many  as  received  him,  to  them  gave  he  power 
to  become  the  sons  of  God,  even  to  them  that  believe  on  his  name. 
Ads  xvi.  31.  And  they  said,  Believe  on  the  Lord  Jesus  Christ,  and 
thou  shalt  be  saved,  and  thy  house.  Acts  x.  43.  To  him  give  all 
the  prophets  witness,  that,  through  his  name,  whosoever  believeth  in 
him  shall  receive  remission  of  sins. 

ji  Phil.  iii.  9.  And  be  found  in  him,  not  having  mine  own  right- 
eousness which  is  of  the  law,  but  that  which  is  through  the  faith  of 
Christ,  the  righteousness  which  is  of  God  by  faith.  Acts  xv.  11. 
But  we  believe  that  through  the  grace  of  the  Lord  Jesus  Christ  we 
shall  be  saved  even  as  they. 

73.  q  Gal.  iii.  11.  But  that  no  man  is  justified  by  the  law  in  the 
sight  of  God,  it  is  evident:  for,  The  just  shall  live  by  faith.  Rom. 
iii.  28.  Therefore  we  conclude,  that  a  man  is  justified  by  faith  with- 
out the  deeds  of  the  law. 

r  Rom.  iv.  5.  But  to  him  that  worketh  not,  but  believeth  on  him 
that  justifieth  the  ungodly,  his  faith  is  counted  for  righteousness. 
Compared  with  Rom.  x.  10.  For  with  the  heart  man  believeth  unto 
righteousness,  and  with  the  mouth  confession  is  made  unto  salvation. 

s  John  i.  12.  But  as  many  as  received  him,  to  them  gave  he  power 
to  become  the  sons  ol  God,  even  to  them  that  believe  on  his  name. 
Phil.  iii.  9.  And  be  found  in  him,  not  having  mine  own  righteous- 
ness which  is  of  the  law,  but  that  wnich  is  through  the  faith  of 
Christ,  the  righteousness  which  is  of  God  by  faith.     Gal.  ii.  16 


*fhe  Larger  Catechism.  235 

Q.  74.  What  is  adoption? 

A.  Adoption  is  an  a6t  of  the  free  grace  of  God,/ 
in  and  for  his  only  Son  Jesus  Christ,^  whereby 
all  those  that  are  justified,  are  received  into  the 
number  of  his  children,iv  have  his  name  put  upon 
them,*  the  Spirit  of  his  Son  given  to  them,;)/  are 
under  his  fatherly  care  and  dispensations  admit- 
ted to  all  the  liberties  and  privileges  of  the  sons 
of  God,  made  heirs  of  all  the  promises,  and  fel- 
low-heirs with  Christ  in  glory.tf 

Knowing  that  a  man  is  not  justified  by  the  works  of  the  law,  but  by 
the  faith  of  Jesus  Christ,  even  we  have  believed  in  Jesus  Christ; 
that  we  might  be  justified  by  the  faith  of  Christ,  and  not  by  the 
works  of  the  law :  for  by  the  works  of  the  law  shall  no  flesh  be  jus- 
tified. 

74.  /  1  John  Hi.  1.  Behold,  what  manner  of  love  the  Father  hath 
bestowed  upon  us,  that  we  should  be  called  the  sons  of  God. 

<v  Eph.  i.  5.  Having  predestinated  us  to  the  adoption  of  children 
by  Jesus  Christ  to  himself,  according  to  the  good  pleasure  of  his 
will.  Gal.  iv.  4.  But  when  the  fulness  of  the  time  was  come,  God 
sent  forth  his  Son,  made  of  a  woman,  made  under  the  law,  v.  5.  To 
redeem  them  that  were  under  the  law,  that  we  might  receive  the 
adoption  of  sons. 

-m  John  i.  12.  Bat  as  many  as  received  him,  to  them  gave  he 
power  to  become  the  sons  of  God,  even  to  them  that  believe  on  his 
name. 

x  2  Cor.  vi.  18.  And  will  be  a  Father  unto  you,  and  ye  shall  be 
my  sons  and  daughters,  saith  the  Lord  Almighty.  Rev.  iii.  12.  Him 
that  overcometh,  will  I  make  a  pillar  in  the  temple  of  my  God,  and 
he  shall  go  no  more  out:  and  I  will  write  upon  him  the  name  of 
my  God,  and  the  name  of  the  city  of  my  God,  which  is  new  Jeru- 
salem, which  cometh  down  out  of  heaven  from  my  God ;  and  I  will 
write  upon  him  my  new  name. 

y  Gal.  iv.  §.  And  because  ye  are  sons,  God  hath  sent  forth  the 
Spirit  of  his  Son  into  your  hearts,  crying,  Abba,  Father. 

z  Psal.  ciii.  13.  Like  as  a  father  pitieth  his  children  ;  so  the  Lord 
pitieth  them  that  fear  him.  Prov.  xiv.  26.  In  the  fear  of  the  Lord 
is  strong  confidence ;  and  his  children  shall  have  a  place  of  refuge. 
Mat.  vi.  32.  For  your  heavenly  Father  knoweth  that  ye  have  need 
of  all  these  things. 

a  Heb.  vi.  12.  That  ye  be  not  slothful,  but  followers  of  them 
who,  through  faith  and  patience,  inherit  the  promises.  Rom.  viii. 
17.  And,  if  children,  then  heirs ;  heirs  of  God,  and  joint-heirs  with 
Christ :  if  so  be,  that  we  suffer  with  him,  that  we  may  be  also  glo- 
rified together. 


236  *the  Larger  Catechism. 

Ql  75'  What  1S  sanclijication? 

A.  Salification  is  a  work  of  God's  grace, 
whereby  they  whom  God  hath,  before  the  foun- 
dation of  the  world,  chosen  to  be  holy,  are  in  time, 
through  the  powerful  operation  of  his  Spirit, £  ap- 
plying the  death  and  resurrection  of  Christ  unto 
them,c  renewed  in  their  whole  man  after  the 
image  of  God  \d  having  the  seeds  of  repentance 
unto  life,  and  of  all  other  saving  graces,  put  into 
their  hearts  ;e  and  those  graces  so  stirred  up,  in- 
creased, and  strengthened,/  as    that  they  more 

75.  b  Eph.  i.  4.  According  as  he  hath  chosen  us  in  him,  before 
the  foundation  of  the  world,  that  we  should  be  holy,  and  without 
blame  before  him  in  love.  1  Cor.  vi.  11.  And  such  were  some  of 
you  :  but  ye  are  washed,  but  ye  are  sanclified,  but  ye  are  justified  in 
the  name  of  the  Lord  Jesus,  and  by  the  Spirit  of  our  God.  2  Thess. 
5i.  13.  But  we  are  bound  to  give  thanks  to  God  alway  for  you, 
brethren,  beloved  of  the  Lord,  because  God  hath  from  the  begin- 
ning chosen  you  to  salvation,  through  sancTification  of  the  Spirit, 
and  belief  of  the  truth. 

c  Rom.  vi.  4.  Therefore  we  are  buried  with  him  by  baptism  into 
death:  that  like  as  Christ  was  raised  up  from  the  dead  by  the  glory 
of  the  Father,  even  so  we  also  should  walk  in  newness  of  life.  v.  5. 
For  if  we  have  been  planted  together  in  the  likeness  of  his  death,  we 
shall  be  also  in  the  likeness  of  his  resurrection:  v.  6.  Knowing  this, 
that  our  old  man  is  crucified  with  him,  that  the  body  of  sin  might 
be  destroyed,  that  henceforth  we  should  not  serve  sin. 

d  Eph.  iv.  23.  And  be  renewed  in  the  spirit  of  your  mind  ;  v.  24. 
And  that  ye  put  on  the  new  man,  which  after  God  is  created  in 
righteousness  and  true  holiness. 

e  A&s  xi.  18.  When  they  heard  these  things,  they  held  their  peace, 
and  glorified  God,  saying,  Then  hath  God  also  to  the  Gentiles 
granted  repentance  unto  life.  1  John  iii.  9.  Wrhosoever  is  born  of 
God,  doth  not  commit  sin:  for  his  seed  remaineth  in  him:  and  he 
cannot  sin,  because  he  is  born  of  God. 

yjude  20.  But  ye,  beloved,  building  up  yourselves  on  your  most 
holy  faith,  praying  in  the  Holy  Ghost.  Heb.  vi.  11.  And  we  desire 
that  every  one  of  you  do  shew  the  same  diligence,  to  the  full  assur- 
ance of  hope  unto  the  end:  v.  12.  That  ye  be  not  slothful,  but  fol- 
lowers of  them  who,  through  faith  and  patience,  inherit  the  promises. 
Eph.  iii.  16.  That  he  would  grant  you,  according  to  the  riches  of 
his  glory,  to  be  strengthened  with  might  by  his  Spirit  in  the  inner- 
man  i  v.  17.  That  Christ  may  dwell  in  your  hearts  by  faith;  that  ye, 


tfhe  Larger  Catechism.  237 

and  more  die  unto  sin,  and  rise  nnto  newness  of 
life.g 

Q.   76.  What  is  repentance  unto  life? 

A.  Repentance  unto  life  is  a  saving  grace, h 
wrought  in  the  heart  of  a  sinner  by  the  Spirit/  and 
word  of  God,/'  whereby  out  of  the  sight  and 
sense,  not  only  of  the  danger,/  but  also  of  the  fi-1- 

being  rooted  and  grounded  in  love,  v.  18.  May  be  able  to  compre- 
hend with  all  saints,  what  is  the  breadth,  and  length,  and  depth,  and 
height;  v.  19.  And  to  know  the  love  of  Christ,  which  passeth. 
knowledge,  that  ye  might  be  filled  with  all  the  fulness  of  God.  Col. 
i.  10.  That  ye  might  walk  worthy  of  the  Lord  unto  all  pleasing,  be- 
ing fruitful  in  every  good  work,  and  increasing  in  the  knowledge  of 
God;  v.  11.  Strengthened  with  all  might  according  to  his  glorious 
power,  unto  all  patience  and  long-suffering  with  joyfulness. 

g  Rom.  vi.  4.  Therefore  we  are  buried  with  him  by  baptism  into 
death:  that  like  as  Christ  was  raised  up  from  the  dead  by  the  glory 
of  the  Father,  even  so  we  also  should  walk  in  newness  of  life.  v.  6. 
Knowing  this,  that  our  old  man  is  crucified  with  him,  that  the  body 
of  sin  might  be  destroyed,  that  henceforth  we  should  not  serve  sin. 
v.  14.  For  sin  shall  not  have  dominion  over  you  :  for  ye  are  not  un- 
der the  law,  but  under  grace.  Gal.  v.  24.  And  they  that  are  Christ's, 
have  crucified  the  flesh  with  the  affections  and  lusts. 

76.  //  2  Tim.  ii.  25.  In  meekness  instructing  those  that  oppose 
themselves;  if  God  peradventure  will  give  them  repentance  to  the 
acknowledging  of  the  truth. 

i  Zech.  xii.  10.  And  I  will  pour  upon  the  house  of  David,  and 
upon  the  inhabitants  of  Jerusalem,  the  Spirit  of  grace  and  of  suppli- 
cations ;  and  they  shall  look  upon  me  whom  they  have  pierced,  and 
they  shall  mourn  for  him,  as  one  mourneth  for  his  only  son,  and 
shall  be  in  bitterness  for  him,  as  one  that  is  in  bitterness  for  his  first 
born. 

k  Actsxi.  18.  When  they  heard  these  things,  they  held  their  peace, 
and  glorified  God,  saying,  Then  hath  God  also  to  the  Gentiles 
granted  repentance  unto  life.  v.  20.  And  some  of  them  were  men 
of  Cyprus  and  Cyrene,  which  when  they  were  come  to  Antioch, 
spake  unto  the  Grecians,  preaching  the  Lord  Jesus,  v.  21.  And 
the  hand  of  the  Lord  was  with  them :  and  a  great  number  believed, 
a>nd  turned  unto  the  Lord. 

/  Ezek.  xviii.  28.  Because  he  considereth,  and  turneth  away  from 
all  his  transgressions  that  he  hath  committed,  he  shall  surely  live,  he 
shall  not  die.  v.  30.  Therefore  I  will  judge  you,  O  house  of  Israel, 
every  one  according  to  his  ways,  saith  the  Lord  God:  repent,  and 
turn  yourselves  from  all  your  transgressions;  so  iniquity  shall  not  be 
your  ruiu.     v.  32.  For  I  have  no  pleasure  in  the  death  of  him  that 


238  7*/?e  Larger  Catechism, 

thiness  and  odiousness  of  his  sins,;w  and  upon  the 
apprehension  of  God's  mercy  in  Christ  to  such  as 
are  penitent,;/  he  so  grieves  for,o  and  hates  his 
sins,^  as  that  he  turns  from  them  all  to  God,^ 

dieth,  saith  the  Lord  God :  wherefore  turn  yourselves,  and  live  ye. 
Luke  xv.  1  7.  And  when  he  came  to  himself,  he  said,  How  many 
hired  servants  of  my  father's  have  bread  enough  and  to  spare,  and  I 
perish  with  hunger!  v.  18.  I  will  rise,  and  go  to  my  father,  and  will 
say  unto  him,  Father,  I  have  sinned  against  heaven,  and  before  thee. 
Hos.  ii.  6.  Therefore  behold,  I  will  hedge  up  thy  way  with  thorns, 
and  make  a  wall,  that  he  shall  not  find  her  paths,  v.  7.  And  she 
shall  follow  after  her  lovers,  bit  she  shall  not  overtake  them;  and 
she  shall  seek  them,  but  shall  not  find  them:  then  shall  she  say,  I 
will  go  and  return  to  my  first  husband,  for  then  was  it  better  with 
me  than  now. 

m  Ezek.  xxxvi.  31.  Then  shall  ye  remember  your  own  evil  ways, 
and  your  doings  that  were  not  good,  and  shall  loathe  yourselves  in 
your  own  sight,  for  your  iniquities,  and  for  your  abominations. 
Isa.  xxx.  22.  Ye  shall  defile  also  the  covering  of  thy  graven  images 
of  silver,  and  the  ornament  of  thy  molten  images  of  gold :  thou  shalt 
cast  them  away  as  a  menstruous  cloth;  thou  shalt  say  unto  it,  Get 
thee  hence. 

n  Joel  ii.  12.  Therefore  also  now,  saith  the  Lord,  Turn  ye  even 
to  me  with  all  your  heart,  and  with  fasting,  and  with  weeping,  and 
with  mourning,  v.  13.  And  rend  your  heart,  and  not  your  gar- 
ments, and  turn  unto  the  Lord  your  God:  lor  he  is  gracious  and 
merciful,  slow  to  anger,  and  of  great  kindness,  and  repenteth  him 
of  the  evil. 

0  Jer.  xxxi.  18.  I  have  surely  heard  Ephraim  bemoaning  himself 
thus,  Thou  hast  chastised  me,  and  I  was  chastised,  as  a  bullock  un- 
accustomed to  the  yoke:  turn  thou  me,  and  I  shall  be  turned:  for 
thou  art  the  Lord  my  God.  v.  19.  Surely  after  that  I  was  turned, 
I  repented:  and  after  that  I  was  instructed,  I  smote  upon  my  thigh: 
I  was  ashamed,  yea,  even  confounded,  because  I  did  bear  the  re- 
proach of  my  youth. 

Ji  2  Cor.  vii.  1 1.  For  behold,  this  self-same  thing  that  ye  sorrow- 
ed after  a  godly  sort,  what  carefulness  it  wrought  in  you,  yea,  what 
clearing  of  yourselves,  yea,  what  indignation,  yea,  what  tear,  yea, 
whit  vehement  desire,  yea,  what  zeal,  yea,  what  revenge!  in  all 
things  ye  have  approved  yourselves  to  be  clear  in  this  matter. 

q  A£ts  xxvi.  18.  To  open  their  eyes,  and  to  turn  them  from  dark- 
ness to  light,  and  from  the  power  ot  Satan  unto  God,  that  they  may 
receive  lorgiveness  of  sins,  and  inheritance  among  them  which  are 
sanctified  by  faith  that  is  in  me.  Ezek.  xiv.  6.  Therefore  say  unto 
the  house  of  Israel,  Thus  saith  the  Lord  God,  repent,  and  turn 
yourselves  from  your  idols,  and  turn  away  your  faces  Irom  all  your 


tfhe  Larger  Catechism.  2  7Q 

purposing  and  endeavouring  constantly  to  walk 
with  him  in  all  the  ways  of  new  obedience.r 

Q^  77.  Wherein  do  justification  and  santJification 
differ? 

A.  Although  sa notification  be  inseparably  join- 
ed with  justification,!  yet  they  differ,  in  that 
God  in  justification  imputeth  the  righteousness  of 
Christ ;/  in  sanclification  his  Spirit  infuseth  grace, 
and  enableth  to  the  exercise  thereof  :v  in  the  for- 
mer, sin  is  pardoned  ;w  in  the  other,  it  is  sub- 
dued :x  the  one  doth  equally  free  all  believers  from 

abominations.  1  Kings  viii.  47.  Yet  if  they  shall  bethink  them- 
selves in  the  land  whither  they  were  carried  captives,  and  repent, 
and  make  supplication  unto  thee  in  the  land  of  them  that  carried 
them  captives,  saying,  We  have  sinned,  and  have  done  perversely, 
we  have  committed  wickedness;  v.  48.  And  so  return  unto  thee 
with  all  their  heart,  and  with  all  their  soul. 

;•  Psal.  cxix.  6.  Then  I  shall  not  be  ashamed,  when  I  have  respect 
unto  all  thy  commandments,  v.  59.  I  thought  on  my  ways,  and 
turned  my  feet  unto  thy  testimonies,  v.  128.  Therefore  I  esteem 
all  thy  precepts  concerning  all  things  to  be  right;  and  I  hate  every 
false  way.  Luke  i.  6.  And  they  were  both  righteous  before  God, 
walking  in  all  the  commandments  and  ordinances  of  the  Lord, 
blameless.  2  Kings  xxiii.  25.  And  like  unto  him  was  there  no  king 
before  him,  that  turned  to  the  Lord  with  all  his  heart,  and  with  all 
his  soul,  and  with  all  his  might,  according  to  all  the  law  of  Moses; 
neither  after  him  arose  there  any  like  him. 

77.  j  1  Cor.  vi.  11.  And  such  were  some  of  you:  but  ye  are 
washed,  but  ye  are  sanctified,  but  ye  are  justified  in  the  name  of  the 
Lord  Jesus,  and  by  the  Spirit  of  our  God.  1  Cor.  i.  30.  But  of  him 
are  ye  in  Christ  Jesus,  who  of  God  is  made  unto  us  wisdom,  and 
righteousness,  and  sanctification,  and  redemption. 

/  Rom.  iv.  6.  Even  as  David  also  describeth  the  blessedness  of  the 
man  unto  whom  God  imputeth  righteousness  without  works,  v.  S. 
Blessed  is  the  man  to  whom  the  Lord  will  not  impute  sin. 

v  Ezek.  xxxvi.  27.  And  I  will  put  my  Spirit  within  you,  and 
cause  you  to  walk  in  my  statutes,  and  ye  shall  keep  my  judgments 
and  do  them. 

■w  Rom.  hi.  24.  Being  justified  freely  by  his  grace,  through  the  re- 
demption that  is  in  Christ  J"us :  v.  25.  Whom  God  hath  set  forth 
to  be  a  propitiation  through  faith  in  his  blood,  to  declare  his  righte- 
ousness for  the  remission  of  sins  that  are  past,  through  the  forbear- 
ance of  God. 

x  Rom.  vi.  6.  Knowing  this,  that  our  old  man  is  crucified  wkh 


240  T'he  Larger  Catechhr,-. 

the  revenging  wrath  of  God,  and  that  perfectly  irt 
this  life,  that  they  never  fall  into  condemnation  ;y 
the  other  is  neither  equal  in  all, 2  nor  in  this  life 
perfect  in  any, a  but  growing  up  to  perfection. b 

0^78.  Whence  an  set  h  the  imperfection  of  sane- 
1  if  cation  in  believers  ? 

A.  The  imperfection  of  sanctification  in  be- 
lievers, ariseth  from  the  remnants  of  sin  abiding 

him,  that  the  body  of  sin  might  be  destroyed,  that  henceforth  we 
should  not  serve  sin.  v.  14.  For  sin  shall  not  have  dominion  over 
you  :  for  ye  are  not  under  the  law,  but  under  grace. 

y  Rom.  viii.  33.  Who  shall  lay  any  thing  to  the  charge  of  God's 
elect?  It  is  God  that  justifieth;  v.  34.  Who  is  he  that  condemneth  ? 
It  is  Christ  that  died  ;  yea  rather,  that  is  risen  again;  who  is  even  at 
the  right  hand  of  God;  who  also  maketh  intercession  for  us. 

z  1  John  ii.  12.  I  write  unto  you,  little  children,  because  your 
sins  are  forgiven  you  for  his  name's  sake.  v.  13.  I  write  unto  yon, 
fathers,  because  ye  have  known  him  that  is  from  the  beginning.  I 
write  unto  you,  young  men,  because  ye  have  overcome  the  wicked 
one.  I  write  unto  you,  little  children,  because  ye  have  known  the 
Father,  v.  14.  I  have  written  unto  you,  lathers,  because  ye  have 
known  him  that  is  from  the  beginning.  I  have  written  unto  you, 
young  men,  because  ye  are  strong,  and  the  word  of  God  abideth  in 
you,  and  ye  have  overcome  the  wicked  one.  Heb.  v.  12.  For 
when  for  the  time  ye  ought  to  be  teachers,  ye  have  need  that  one 
teach  you  again  which  be  the  first  principles  of  the  oracles  of  God ; 
and  are  become  such  as  have  need  of  milk,  and  not  of  strong  meat. 
v.  13.  For  every  one  that  useth  milk,  is  unskilful  in  the  word  of 
righteousness:  for  he  is  a  babe.  v.  14.  But  strong  meat  belongeth 
to  them  that  are  of  full  age,  even  those  who,  by  reason  of  use,  have 
their  senses  exercised  to  discern  both  good  and  evil. 

a  1  John  i.  8.  And  if  we  say  that  we  have  no  sin,  we  deceive 
ourselves,  and  the  truth  is  not  in  us.  v.  10.  If  we  spy,  that  we  have 
not  sinned,  we  make  him  a  liar,  and  his  word  is  not  in  us. 

b  2  Cor.  vii.  i.  Having  therefore  these  promises,  dearly  beloved, 
let  us  cleanse  ourselves  from  all  filthiness  of  the  fiesh  and  spirit,  per- 
fecting holiness  in  the  fear  of  God.  Phil.  iii.  12.  Not  as  though  I  had 
already  attained,  either  were  already  perfect ;  but  I  follow  after,  if 
that  I  may  apprehend  that  for  which  also  I  am  apprehended  of  Christ 
Jesus,  v.  13.  Brethren,  I  count  not  myself  to  have  apprehended: 
but  this  one  thing  I  do,  forgetting  those  things  which  are  behind, 
and  reaching  forth  unto  those  things  which  are  before,  v.  14.  I  press 
toward  the  mark,  for  the  prize  of  the  high  calling  of  God  in  Christ 
Jesus. 


The  Larger  Catechism,  24 f 

m  every  part  of  them,  and  the  perpetual  lustino-s 
of  the  flesh  against  the  spirit ;  whereby  they  are 
often  foiled  with  temptations,  and  fall  into  many 
sins,*:  are  hindered  in  all  their  spiritual  services,^/ 
and  their  best  works  are  imperfect  and  defiled  in 
the  sight  of  God.e 

Q^  79.  May  not  true  believers,  by  reason  of  their 
imperfections,  and  the  many  temptations  and  sins 
they  are  overtaken  with,  fall  away  from  the  state 
of  grace  f 

A.  True  believers,  by  reason  of  the  unchange- 
able love  of  Godf  and  his  decree  and  covenant 
to   give   them  perseverance,^  their    inseparable 

78.  c  Rom.  vii.  18.  For  I  know  that  in  me  'that  is,  in  my  flesh) 
dwellethno  good  thing:  for  to  will  is  present  with  me,  but  how  to 
perform  that  which  is  good,  I  find  not.  v.  23.  But  I  see  another 
law  in  my  members,  warring  against  the  law  of  my  mind, and  bring- 
ing me  into  captivity  to  the  law  of  sin,  which  is  in  my  members. 
Mark  xiv.  66.  to  the  end.  And  as  Peter  was  beneath  in  the  palace, 
there  cometh  one  of  the  maids  of  the  high  priest,  CsV.  Gal.  ii.  11. 
But  when  Peter  was  come  to  Antioch,  I  withstood  him  to  the  face, 
because  he  was  to  be  blamed,  v.  12.  For  before  that  certain  came 
from  James,  he  did  eat  with  the  Gentiles  :  but  when  they  were  come, 
he  withdrew  and  separated  himself,  fearing  them  which  were  of  the 
circumcision. 

d  Heb.  xii.  1.  Wherefore,  seeing  we  also  are  compassed  about 
with  so  great  a  cloud  ot  witnesses,  let  us  lay  aside  every  weight,  and 
the  sin  which  doth  so  easily  beset  us,  and  let  us  run  with  patience  the 
race  that  is  set  before  us. 

e  Isa.  lxiv.  6.  But  we  are  all  as  an  unclean  thing,  and  all  our 
righteousnesses  are  as  filthy  rags,  and  we  all  do  fade  as  a  leaf,  and 
our  iniquities,  like  the  wind,  have  taken  us  away.  Exod.  xxviii.  38. 
And  it  shall  be  upon  Aaron's  forehead,  that  Aaron  may  bear  the  ini- 
quity of  the  holy  things,  which  the  children  of  Israel  shall  hallow  in 
all  their  holy  gifts :  and  it  shall  be  always  upon  his  forehead,  that  they 
may  be  accepted  before  the  Lord. 

79.  f  Jer.  xxxi.  3.  The  Lord  hath  appeared  of  old  unto  me,  say- 
ing, Yea,  I  have  loved  thee  with  an  everlasting  love :  therefore  with 
loving  kindness  have  I  drawn  thee. 

g  2  Tim.  ii.  19.  Nevertheless,  the  foundation  of  God  standeth 
sure,  having  this  seal,  The  Lord  knoweth  them  that  are  his.  And, 
Let  every  one  that  nameth  the  name  of  Christ  depart  from  iniquity. 

2H 


242  The  Larger  Catechism. 

union  with  Christ,/*  his  continual  intercession  for 
them,/  and  the  Spirit  and  seed  of  God  abiding  in 
them,/6  can  neither  totally  nor  finally  fall  away 
from  the  state  of  grace,/ but  are  kept  by  the  power 
of  God  through  faith  unto  salvation. m 

Q^  80.  Can  true  believers  be  infallibly  assured 
that  they  are  in  the  estate  of  grace,  and  that  they 
shall  persevere  therein  unto  salvation? 

A.  Such  as  truly  believe  in  Christ,  and  endea- 
vour to  walk  in  all  good  conscience  before  him,« 
may,  without  extraordinary  revelation,  by  faith 

Heb.  xiii.  20.  Now  the  God  of  peace  that  brought  again  from  the 
dead  our  Lord  Jesus,  that  great  Shepherd  of  the  sheep,  through  the 
blood  of  the  everlasting  covenant,  v.  21.  Make  you  perfect  in  every 
good  work,  to  do  his  will,  working  in  you  that  which  is  well-pleas- 
ing in  his  sight,  through  Jesus  Christ;  to  whom  be  glory  forever 
and  ever.  Amen.  2  Sam.  xxiii.  5.  Although  my  house  be  not  so- 
with  God;  yet  he  hath  made  with  me  an  everlasting  covenant,  or- 
dered in  all  things  and  sure:  for  this  is  all  my  salvation,  and  all  my 
desire,  although  iie  make  it  not  to  grow. 

h  1  Cor.  i.  S.  Who  shall  also  confirm  you  unto  the  end,  that  ye 
may  be  blameless  in  the  day  of  cur  Lord  Jesus  Christ,  v.  9.  God 
is  faithful,  by  whom  ye  were  called  unto  the  fellowship  of  his  Son 
Jesus  Christ  our  Lord. 

i  Heb.  vii.  25.  Wherefore  he  is  able  also  to  save  them  to  the  utter- 
most, that  come  unto  God  by  him,  seeing  he  ever  liveth  to  make 
intercession  for  them.  Luke  xxii.  32.  But  I  have  prayed  for  thee, 
that  thy  faith  fail  not;  and  when  thou  art  converted,  strengthen  thy 
brethren. 

k  1  John  iii.  9.  Whosoever  is  born  of  God,  doth  not  commit  sin, 
for  his  seed  remaineth  in  him  :  and  he  cannot  sin,  because  he  is  born 
of  God.  1  John  ii.  27.  But  the  anointing  which  ye  have  received 
of  him,  abideth  in  you:  and  ye  need  not  that  any  man  teach  you : 
but,  as  the  same  anointing  teaeheth  you  of  all  things,  and  is  truth, 
and  is  no  lie:  and  even  as  it  hath  taught  you,  ye  shall  abide  in  him, 

/  Jer.  xxxii.  40.  And  I  will  make  an  everlasting  covenant  with 
them,  that  I  will  not  turn  avvr\y  from  them,  to  do  them  good;  but  I 
will  put  my  fear  in  their  hearts,  that  they  shall  not  depart  Irom  me. 
John  x.  28.  And  I  give  unto  them  eternal  life,  and  they  shall  never 
perish,  neither  shall  any  pluck,  them  out  ol  my  hand. 

711  1  Pet.  i.  5.  Who  are  kept  by  the  power  ol  God,  through  fai:hy 
unto  salvation  ready  to  be  revealed  in  the  last  time. 

So.  n  1  John  ii.  3.  .And  hereby  wc  uo  know  that  we  know  him, 
if  wc  keep  his  commandments. 


tfhe  Larger  Catechism.  242 

grounded  upon  the  truth  of  God's  promises,  and 
by  the  Spirit  enabling  them  to  discern  in  them- 
selves those  graces  to  which  the  promises  of  life 
are  made,o  and  bearing  witness  with  their  spirits 
that  they  are  the  children  of  God,/>  be  infallibly 
assured,  that  they  are  in  the  estate  of  grace,  and 
shall  persevere  therein  unto  salvation.^ 

Q^  8 1 .  Are  all  true  believers  at  all  times  assured 
of  their  present  being  in  the  estate  of  grace ,  and  that 
they  shall  be  saved  f 

A.  Assurance  of  grace  and  salvation  not  beino- 
of  the  essence  of  faith, r  true  believers  may  wait 
long  before  they  obtain  it ;/  and,  after  the  en- 

0  1  Cor.  ii.  12.  Now  vve  have  received,  not  the  spirit  of  the 
world,  but  the  Spirit  which  is  of  Godj  that  we  might  know  the 
things  that  are  freely  given  to  us  of  God.  i  John  iii.  14.  We  know 
that  we  have  passed  from  death  unto  life,  because  we  love  the 
brethren:  he  that  loveth  not  his  brother,  abideth  in  death,  v.  18. 
My  little  children,  let  us  not  love  in  word,  neither  in  tongue,  but 
in  deed,  and  in  truth,  v.  19.  And  hereby  we  know  that  we  are  of 
the  truth,  and  shall  assure  our  hearts  before  him.  v.  2r.  Beloved, 
if  our  heart  condemn  us  not,  then  have  we  confidence  towards  God. 
v.  24.  And  he  that  keepeth  his  commandments  dwelleth  in  him, 
and  he  in  him:  and  hereby  we  know  that  he  abideth  in  us,  bv  the 
Spirit  which  he  hath  given  us.  1  John  iv.  13.  Hereby  know  we  that 
we  dwell  in  him,  and  he  in  us,  because  he  hath  given  us  of  his  Spirit. 
v.  16.  And  we  have  known  and  believed  the  love  that  God  hath  to 
ns.  God  is  love;  and  he  that  dwelleth  in  love,  dwelleth  in  God, 
and  God  in  him.  Heb.  vi.  1 1.  And  we  desire  that  every  one  of  you 
do  shew  the  same  diligence,  to  the  full  assurance  of  hope  unto  the 
end.  v.  13.  That  ye  be  not  slothful,  but  followers  of  them  who 
through  faith  and  patience  inherit  the  promises. 

p  Rom.  viii.  16.  The  Spirit  itself  beareth  witness  with  our  spirit 
that  we  are  the  children  of  God. 

q  1  John  v.  13.  These  things  have  I  written  unto  you  that  be- 
lieve on  the  name  of  the  Son  of  God,  that  ye  may  know  that  ye 
have  eternal  life,  and  that  ye  may  believe  on  the  name  of  the  Son  of 
God. 

81.  r  Eph.  i.  13.  In  whom  ye  also  trusted  after  that  ye  heard  the 
word  of  truth,  the  gospel  of  your  salvation ;  in  whom  also,  after  that 
ye  believed,  ye  were  sealed  with  that  holy  Spirit  of  promise. 

s  Isa.  1.  10.  Who  is  among  you  that  feareth  the  Lord,  that  obeyetb 


244  ^he  Larger  Catechism. 

joyment  thereof,  may  have  it  weakened  and  inter- 
mitted, through  manifold  distempers,  sins,  temp- 
tations, and  desertions;/  yet  are  they  never  left 
without  such  a  presence  and  support  of  the  Spirit 
of  God,  as  keeps  them  from  sinking  into  utter 
despair.v 

the  voice  of  his  servant,  that  walketh  in  darkness,  and  hath  no  light? 
let  him  trust  in  the  name  of  the  Lord,  and  stay  upon  his  God.  Psal. 
lxxxviii.  throughout,  v.  i.  O  Lord  God  of  my  salvation,  I  have 
cried  day  and  night  before  thee.  v.  2.  Let  my  prayer  come  before 
thee:  incline  thine  ear  unto  my  cry.  v.  3.  For  my  soul  is  full  of 
trouble;  and  my  life  draweth  nigh  unto  the  grave. — v.  6.  Thou 
hast  laid  me  in  (he  lowest  pit.  in  darkness,  in  the  deeps,  v.  7.  Thy 
wrath  hern  hard  upon  me,  and  thou  hast  afilicled  me  with  all  thy 
\va\es.  S-iah — v.  9.  Mine  eye  mourneth  by  reason  of  affliction: 
Lord,  I  have  called  daily  upon  thee,  I  have  stretched  out  my  hands 
unto  thee.  v.  10.  Wilt  thou  shew  wonders  to  the  dead? — v.  13. 
But  unto  thee  have  I  criedj  O  Lord  ;  and  in  the  morning  shall  my 
prayer  prevent  thee.  v.  14.  Lord,  why  castest  thou  off  my  soul? 
why  hidest  ihou  thy  face  from  me?  v.  15.  I  am  affliCted  and  ready 
to  die,  from  my  youth  up:  while  I  suffer  thy  terrors,  I  am  distract- 
ed, &c. 

t  (Psal.  lxxvii.  1.  to  the  12th  verse.)  v.  1.  I  cried  unto  God  with 
my  voice;  even  unto  God  with  my  voice;  and  he  gave  ear  unto  me. 
v.  2.  In  the  day  of  my  trouble  I  sought  the  Lord;  my  sore  ran  in 
the  night,  and  ceased  not:  my  soul  refused  to  be  comforted,  v.  3.  I 
remembered  God,  and  was  troubled:  I  complained,  and  my  spirit 
was  overwhelmed. — v.  7.  Will  the  Lord  cast  off  forever;  and  will 
he  be  favourable  no  more?  &c.  Cant.  v.  2.  I  sleep,  but  my  heart 
waketh:  it  is  the  voice  of  my  beloved  that  knocketh,  saying,  Open 
to  me,  my  sister,  my  love,  my  dove,  my  undefiled:  for  my  head  is 
filled  with  dew,  and  my  locks  with  the  drops  of  the  night,  v.  3.  I 
have  put  off  my  coat,  how  shall  I  put  it  on?  I  have  washed  my 
feet,  how  shall  I  defile  them?  v.  6.  I  opened  to  my  beloved,  but  my 
beloved  had  withdrawn  himself,  and  was  gone:  my  soul  failed  when 
he  spake:  I  sought  him,  but  I  could  not  find  him;  I  called  him, 
he  gave  me  no  answer.  Psal.  ii.  8.  Make  me  to  hear  joy  and 
gladness:  that  the  bones  which  thou  hast  broken  may  rejoice,  v.  12. 
ore  unto  me  the  joy  of  thy  salvation:  and  uphold  me  with  thy 
free  Spirit.  Psal.  xxxi.  22.  For  I  said  in  my  haste,  I  am  cut  off  from 
before  thine  eyes;  nevertheless  thou  heardst  the  voice  of  my  suppli- 
cations, when  I  cried  unto  thee.  Psal.  xxii.  1.  My  God,  my  God, 
why  hast  thou  forsaken  me?  why  art  thou  so  far  from  helping  me, 
end  from  the  word,  of  my  roaring? 

v  1  John  hi.  9.  Whosoever  is  born  of  God,  doth  not  commit  sin, 
for  his  seed  remaineth  in  him :  and  he  cannot  sin,  because  he  is  born 


'the  Larger  Catechism.  245 

Q.  82.  What  is  the  communion  in  glory  which  the 
members  of  the  invisible  church  have  with  Christ  f 

A.  The  communion  in  glory,  which  the  mem- 
bers of  the  invisible  church  have  with  Christ,  is 
in  this  life,w  immediately  after  death,*  and  at 
last  perfected  at  the  resurrection  and  day  of  judg- 
ment^ 

Q.  83.  What  is  the  communion  in  glory  with 
Christ,  which  the  members  of  the  invisible  church 
enjoy  in  this  life  t 

A.  The  members  of  the  invisible  church  have 
communicated  to  them,  in  this  life,  the  first  fruits 
of  glory  with  Christ,  as  they  are  members  of  him 
their  head,  and  so  in  him  are  interested  in  that 
o-lory,  which  he  is  fully  possessed  of;z  and,  as  an 

of  God.  Job  xiii.  i  5.  Though  he  slay  me,  yet  will  I  trust  in  him: 
but  I  will  maintain  mine  own  ways  before  him.  Psal.  lxxni.  15.  lr 
I  say,  I  will  speak  thus:  behold,  I  should  offend  against  the  genera- 
tion of  thy  children,  v.  23.  Nevertheless  I  am  continually  with 
thee:  thou  hast  holden  me  by  my  right  hand.  Isa.  liv.  7.  For  a  small 
moment  have  I  forsaken  thee;  but  with  great  mercies  will  I  gather 
thee.  v.  8.  In  a  little  wrath  I  hide  my  face  from  thee;  for  a  mo- 
ment; but  with  everlasting  kindness  will  I  have  mercy  on  thee,  saith 
the  Lord  thy  Redeemer,  v.  9.  For  this  is  as  the  waters  of  Noah  un- 
to me:  for 'as  I  have  sworn  that  the  waters  ot  Noah  should  no  more 
go  over  the  earth;  so  have  I  sworn  that  I  would  not  be  wroth  with 
thee  nor  rebuke  thee.  v.  10.  For  the  mountains  shall  depart,  and 
the  'hills  be  removed,  but  my  kindness  shall  not  depart  from  thee, 
neither  shall  the  covenant  of  my  peace  be  removed,  saith  the  Lord, 
that  hath  mercv  on  thee.  • 

8s.  iv  2  Cor.  111.  18.  But  we  all  with  open  face  beholding  as  in  a 
glass  the  glory  of  the  Lord,  are  changed  into  the  same  image,  from 
glory  to  ffiory,  even  as  by  the  Spirit  of  the  Lord. 
*  x  Luke  xxiii.  43.  And  Jesus  said  unto  him,  Verily  I  say  unto 
thee,  To-dav  shale  thou  be  with  me  in  paradise.  _ 

y  i  Thess.  iv.  17.  Then  we  which  are  alive  and  remain,  shall  be 
caught  up  together  with  them  in  the  clouds,  to  meet  the  Lord  in  the 
air  "and  so  shall  we  ever  be  with  the  Lord. 

83.  z  Eph.  ii.  5.  Even  when  we  were  dead  in  sins  hath  quicken- 
ed us'together  with  Christ,  (by  grace  ye  are  saved),  v.  6.  And  hath 
raised  us  up  together,  and  made  us  sit  together  in  heavenly  places  m 
Christ  Jesus. 


^46  The  Larger  Catechism, 

earnest  thereof,  enjoy  the  sense  of  God's  love,* 
peace  of  conscience,  joy  in  the  Holy  Ghost,  and 
hope  of  glory  \b  as,  on  the  contrary,  sense  of  God's 
revenging  wrath,  horror  ot  conscience,  and  a 
fearful  expectation  of  judgment,  are,  to  the  wicked, 
the  beginning:  of  their  torments  which  thev  shall 
endure  after  deaths 

Q.   84.  Shall  all  men  die? 

A.  Death  being  threatened  as  the  wages  of 
bin,c7?  it  is  appointed  unto  all  men  once  to  die  \e 
for  that  all  have  sinned;/* 

Q.  8;.  Death  being  the  wa  t  .>/;;,  why  are 
not  \  hteous  .  from  deaths  seeing  all 

■-  rim  art  forgk  it  ? 

A.  The  righteous  shall  be  delivered  from  death 


a  Rom.  v.  5.  And  hope  rr.aketh  not  ashamed;  because  the  love  of 
God  is  shed  abroad  in  our  hearts  by  the  Holy  Giiost  which  is  given 
unto  us.  Compared  with  2  Cor.  i.  22.  Who  hath  also  sealed  us, 
and  given  the  earnest  ot  the  Spirit  in  our  hearts. 

b  Rom.  v.  1.  Therefore  being  justified  by  faith,  we  have  peace 
with  God  through  our  Lord  Jesus  Christ;    v.  2.   By  0  we 

have  access  bv  laith  into  this  grace  wherein  we  stand,  and  rejoice  in 
hope  of  the  glory  ot  God.  Rom.  xiv.  1  7.  For  the  kingdom  of  God 
is  not  meat  and  drink,  but  righteouine>_-,  and  peace,  and  joy  in  the 
Hoiv  Ghost. 

c  Gen.  iv.  1  y  And  Cain  said  unto  the  Lord,  My  punishment  is 
greater  t:  Mat.  xxvii.  4.   Saying,  I  have  sinned,  in 

that  I  have  betrayed  the  innocent  blood.  And  they  said,  What  is 
that  to  us:  see  thou  to  that.  Heb.  x.  27.  But  a  certain  fearful  look- 
5n<r  for  ot  judgment,  and  fiery  indignation,  which  *hall  devour 

Rom.  ii.  9.  Tribulation  and  anguish  upon  every  soul 
of  man  that  doth  evil,  of  the  Jew  first,  and  also  of  the  Gentile. 
14.    Where   their   worm  dieth  not,  and   the  fire   is  not 
quenched. 

84.  et  Rom.  vi.  2;.  For  I  of  sin  is  death:  but  the  gift  of 

God  is  eternal  life,  through  Jesus  Christ  our  Lord. 

c  Heb.  i\.  27.  And  as  it  is  appointed  unto  men  once  to  die,  but 
after  this  the  judgment. 

-Rom.  v.  ia.  Wherefore,  as  by  one  man  sin  entered  into  the 
v*  odd,  and  der.:h  by  sin;  and  so  death  passed  upon  all  men,  for  I 
all  have  sinned. 


The  Larger  Catechism.  247 

itself  at  the  last  day,  and  even  in  death  are  deli- 
vered from  the  sting  and  curse  of  it,£  so  that,  al- 
though they  die,  yet  it  is  out  of  God's  love,/6  to 
free  them  perfectly  from  sin  and  misery,/  and  to 
make  them  capable  of  further  communion  with 
Christ  in  °dory,  which  they  then  enter  upon./' 

Q.  86.  What  is  the  communion  in  glory  with 
Christ,  which  the  members  of  the  invisible  church 
enjoy  immediately  after  death  ? 

A.  The  communion  in  glory  with  Christ,  which 
the  members  of  the  invisible  church  enjoy  imme- 
diately after  death,  is,  in  that  their  souls  are  then 
made  perfect  in  holiness,/  and  received  into  the 
highest  heavens,^  where  they  behold  the  face  of 

8  c  g  1  Cor.  xv.  26.  The  last  enemy  that  shall  be  destroyed,  is 
death.— v.  cc.  O  death,  where  is  thy  sting?  O  grave,  where  is  thy 
victory?  v.  c6.  The  sting  of  death  is  sin;  and  the  strength  of  sin  is 
the  law.  v.  57.  But  thanks  be  to  God,  which  giveth  us  the  vidory 
through  our  Lord  Jesus  Christ.  Hcb.  ii.  1 5.  And  deliver  them  who, 
through  fear  of  death,  were  all  their  lifetime  subjeft  to  bondage. 

k  Isa.  Ivii.  1.  The  righteous  perisheth,  and  no  man  layeth  it  to 
heart;  and  merciful  men  are  taken  away,  none  considering  that  the 
righteous  is  taken  away  from  the  evil  to  come.  v.  2.  He  shall  enter 
into  peace;  thev  shall 'rest  in  their  beds,  each  one  walking  in  his  up- 
rightness. 2  Kings  xxii.  20.  Behold  therefore,  I  will  gather  thee 
unto  thy  fathers,  and  thou  shalt  be  gathered  into  thy  grave  in  peace, 
and  thine  eyes  shall  not  see  all  the  evil  which  I  wiU  bring  upon  this 
place. 

i  Rev.  xiv.  13.  And  I  heard  a  voice  from  heaven  saying  unto  me, 
Write,  Blessed  are  the  dead  which  die  in  the  Lord,  from  henceforth: 
vea,  saith  the  Spirit,  that  they  may  rest  from  their  labours;  and  their 
works  do  follow  them.  Eph.  v.  27.  That  he  might  present  it  to 
himself  a  glorious  church,  not  having  spot,  or  wrinkle,  or  any  such 
thing;  but  that  it  should  be  holy,  and  without  blemish. 

k  Luke  xxiii.  43.  And  Jesus  said  unto  him,  Verily  I  say  unto  thee, 
To-day  shalt  thou  be  with  me  in  paradise.  Phil.  i.  23.  For  I  am  111 
a  strait  betwixt  two,  having  a  desire  to  depart  and  to  bt  with  Christ; 
which  is  far  better. 

86.  /Heb.  xii.  23.  To  the  general  assembly  and  church  of  the 
first-born,  which  are  written  in  heaven,  and  to  God  the  judge  of  all, 
and  to  the  spirits  of  just  men  made  perfecT:. 

m  2  Cor.  v.  1.  For  we  know,  thai  if  our  earthly  house  of  this  ta- 


2.J.B  The  Larger  Catechism. 

God  in  light  and  glory,;/  waiting  for  the  full  re- 
demption of  their  bodies,o  which  even  in  death 
continue  united  to  Christ,/)  and  rest  in  their  gra\  <  - 
as  in  their  beds,^  till  at  the  last  day  they  be  again 
united  to  their  souls.;-  Whereas  the  souls  of  the 
wicked  are,  at  their  death,  cast  into  hell,  where 
they  remain  in  torments  and  utter  darkness,  and 
their  bodies  kept  in  their  graves,  as  in  their  pri- 
sons, till  the  resurrection  and  judgment  of  the 
great  day.j 

bemacle  were  dissolved,  we  have  a  building  of  God,  an  house  not 
made  with  hands,  eternal  in  the  heavens,  v.  6.  Therefore  we  are 
always  confident,  knowing  that  whilst  we  are  at  home  in  the  body, 
we  are  absent  from  the  Lord.  v.  8.  We  are  confident,  I  say,  and 
willing  rather  to  be  absent  from  the  body,  and  to  be  present  with  the 
Lord.  Phil.  i.  23.  For  I  am  in  a  strait  betwixt  two,  having  a  desire 
to  depart  and  to  be  with  Christ;  which  is  far  better.  Compared 
with  Acts  ill.  21.  Whom  the  heaven  must  receive  until  the  times 
of  restitution  of  all  things,  which  God  hath  spoken  by  the  mouth  of 
all  his  holy  prophets,  since  the  world  began.  And  with  Eph.iv.  10. 
He  that  descended,  is  the  same  also  that  ascended  up  far  above  all 
heavens,  that  he  might  fill  all  things. 

n  1  John  iii.  2.  Beloved,  now  are  we  the  sons  of  God ;  and  it  doth 
not  yet  appear  what  we  shall  be:  but  we  know,  that  when  he  shall 
ar,  we  shall  be  like  him;  for  we  shall  see  him  as  he  is.  1  Cor. 
xiii.  12.  For  now  we  see  through  a  glass,  darkly;  but  then  face  to 
iace:  Now  I  know  in  part ;  but  then  shall  I  know  even  as  also  I  am 
known. 

0  Rom.  viii.  23.  And  not  onlv  they,  but  ourselves  also  which  have 
the  first-fruits  of  the  Spirit,  even  we  ourselves  groan  within  ourselves, 
waiting  for  the  adoption,  to  wit,  the  redemption  of  our  body.  PsaL 
xvi.  9.  Therefore  my  heart  is  glad,  and  my  glory  rejoiceth:  my  flesh 
also  shall  rest  in  hope. 
fi   1  Thcss.  iv.  14.    For  if  we   believe  that  Jesus  died  and  rose 

in,  even  so  them  a!-.o  which  sleep  in  Jesus  will  God  bring  with 
him. 

q  Isa.  Ivii.  2.  He  shall  enter  into  peace;  they  shall  rest  in  their 
beds,  each  one  walking  in  his  uprightness. 

r  Job.  xix.  26.  And  thou  \  skin,  worms  destroy  this  body, 

yet  in  my  flesh  shall  1  see  God:     v.  27.  Whom  I  shall  see  for  my- 
s<  If,  and  mine  eyes  shall  behold,  and  not  another;  though  my  reins 
.  d  within 

s  Luke  xvi.  23.  And  in  hell  he  lifted  up  his  eyes,  being  in  torments, 
and  seeth  Abr.  o\Y.  and  Lazarus  in  his  bosom,   v.  24.  And 


The  Larger  Catechism.  249 

Q.  87.  What  are  we  to  believe  concerning  the 
resurreclwn  f 

A.  We  are  to  believe,  that,  at  the  last  day 
there  shall  be  a  general  resurrection  of  the  dead, 
both  of  the  just  and  unjust,/1  when  they  that  are 
then  found  alive  shall  in  a  moment  be  changed ; 
and  the  self-same  bodies  of  the  dead  which  were 
laid  in  the  grave,  being  then  again  united  to  their 
souls  for  ever,  shall  be  raised  up  by  the  power  of 
Christ.^  The  bodies  of  the  just,  by  the  Spirit  of 
Christ,  and  by  virtue  of  his  resurrection  as  their 
head,  shall  be  raised  in  power,  spiritual,  incor- 

he  cried,  and  said,  Father  Abraham,  have  mercy  on  me,  and  send  Laza- 
rus, that  he  may  dip  the  tip  of  his  finger  in  water  and  cool  my  tongue; 
for  I  am  tormented  in  this  flame.  Acts  i.  25.  That  he  may  take  part 
of  this  ministry  and  apostleship,  from  which  Judas  by  transgression 
fell,  that  he  might  go  to  his  own  place.  Jude  6.  And  the  angels 
which  kept  not  their  first  estate,  but  left  their  own  habitation,  he 
hath  reserved  in  everlasting  chains  under  darkness,  unto  the  judg- 
ment of  the  great  day.  v.  7.  Even  as  Sodom  and  Gomorrha,  and 
the  cities  about  them  in  like  manner,  giving  themselves  over  to  for- 
nication, and  going  after  strange  flesh,  are  set  forth  for  an  example, 
suffering  the  vengeance  of  eternal  fire. 

87.  /  Acts  xxiv.  15.  And  have  hope  towards  God,  which  they 
themselves  also  allow,  that  there  shall  be  a  resurrection  of  the  dead, 
both  of  the  just  and  unjust. 

•y  1  Cor.  xv.  51.  Behold,  I  shew  you  a  mystery.  We  shall  not 
all  sleep,  but  we  shall  all  be  changed,  v.  52.  In  a  moment,  in  the 
twinkling  of  an  eye,  at  the  last  trump,  (for  the  trumpet  shall  sound) 
and  the  dead  shall  be  raised  incorruptible,  and  we  shall  be  changed., 
v.  53.  For  this  corruptible  must  put  on  incorruption,  and  this  mor- 
tal must  put  on  immortality.  1  Thess.  iv.  15.  For  this  we  say  unto 
you  by  the  word  of  the  Lord,  that  we  which  are  alive  and  remain 
unto  the  coming  of  the  Lord,  shall  not  prevent  them  which  are  asleep, 
v.  16.  For  the  Lord  himself  shall  descend  from  heaven  with  a  shout* 
with  the  voice  of  the  archangel,  and  with  the  trump  of  God:  and 
the  dead  in  Christ  shall  rise  first :  v.  17.  Then  we  which  are  alive 
and  remain,  shall  be  caught  up  together  with  them  in  the  clouds,  to 
meet  the  Lord  in  the  air:  and  so  shall  we  ever  be  with  the  Lord. 
John  v.  28.  Marvel  not  at  this:  for  the  hour  is  arming,  in  the  which 
all  that  are  in  the  graves  shall  hear  his  voice,  v.  29.  And  shall  come 
forth,  they  that  have  done  good,  unto  the  resurrection  of  life;  and 
they  that  have  done  evii,  unto  the  resurrection  of  damnation. 


l$o  'The  Larger  Catechism. 

ruptible,  and  made  like  to  his  glorious  body:w 
and  the  bodies  of  the  wicked  shall  be  raised  up  in 
dishonour  by  him,  as  an  offended  judge.* 

Q^  88.  What  shall  immediately  follow  after  the 
resurrection  f 

A.  Immediately  after  the  resurrection  shall  fol- 
low the  general  and  final  judgment  of  angels  and 
men  \y  the  day  and  hour  whereof  no  man  know- 
eth,  that  all  may  watch  and  pray,  and  be  ever 
ready  for  the  coming  of  the  Lord.s 

iv  i  Cor.  xv.  21.  For  since  by  man  came  death,  by  man  came 
also  the  resurrection  of  the  dead.  v.  22.  For  as  in  Adam  all  die,  even 
so  in  Christ  shall  all  be  made  alive,  v.  23.  But  every  man  in  his  own 
order:  Christ  the  first-fruits,  afterward  they  that  are  Christ's,  at  his 
coming,  v.  42.  So  also  is  the  resurrection  of  the  dead.  It  is  sown 
in  corruption,  it  is  raised  in  incorruption  :  v.  43.  It  is  sown  in  disho- 
nour, it  is  raised  in  glory  :  it  is  sown  in  weakness,  it  is  raised  in 
power  :  v.  44.  It  is  sown  a  natural  body,  it  is  raised  a  spiritual  body. 
Phil.  iii.  21.  Who  shall  change  our  vile  body,  that  it  may  be  fa- 
shioned like  unto  his  glorious  body,  according  to  the  working 
whereby  he  is  able  even  to  subdue  all  things  unto  himself. 

x  John  v.  27.  And  hath  given  him  authority  to  execute  judgment 
also,  because  he  is  the  Son  of  man.  v.  28.  Marvel  not  at  this:  for 
the  hour  is  coming,  in  the  which  all  that  are  in  the  graves  shall  hear 
his  voice,  v.  29.  And  shall  come  forth,  they  that  have  done  good, 
unto  the  resurrection  of  life  ;  and  they  that  have  done  evil,  unto  the 
resurrection  of  damnation.  Mat.  xxv.  33.  And  he  shall  set  the  sheep 
on  his  right  hand,  but  the  goats  on  the  left. 

8S.  y  2  Peter  ii.  4.  For  if  God  spared  not  the  angels  that  sinned, 
but  cast  them  down  to  hell,  and  delivered  them  into  chains  of  dark- 
ness, to  be  reserved  unto  judgment.  Jude  6.  And  the  angels  which 
kept  not  their  first  estate,  but  left  their  own  habitation,,  he  hath  re- 
served in  everlasting  chains  under  darkness,  unto  the  judgment  of 
the  great  day.  v.  7.  Even  as  Sodom  and  Gomorrha,  and  the  cities 
about  them,  in  like  manner  giving  themselves  over  to  fornication, 
and  going  after  strange  flesh,  are  set  forth  for  an  example,  suffering 
the  vengeance  of  eternal  fire.  v.  14.  And  Enoch  also,  the  seventh 
from  Adam,  prophesied  of  these,  saying,  Behold  the  Lord  cometh 
with  ten  thousands  of  his  saints,  v.  15.  To  execute  judgment  upon 
all,  and  to  convince  all  that  are  ungodly  among  them,  ot  all  their 
ungodly  deeds,  which  they  have  ungodly  committed,  and  of  all  their 
hard  speeches,  which  ungodly  sinners  have  spoken  against  him.  Mat. 
xxv.  46.  And  these  shall  go  away  into  everlasting  punishment:  but 
the  righteous  into  life  eternal. 

s  Mat.  xxiv.  36.  But  of  that  day  and  hour  knoweth  no  man,  no,, 


¥he  "Larger  Catechism,  25  r 

0^89.  What  shall  be  done  to  the  wicked  at  the 
day  of  judgment  f 

A.  At  the  day  of  judgment,  the  wicked  shall 
be  set  on  Christ's  left  hand,<2  and  upon  clear  evi- 
dence, and  full  conviction  of  their  own  consci- 
ences,^ shall  have  the  fearful  but  just  sentence 
of  condemnation  pronounced  against  them,c  and 
thereupon  shall  be  cast  out  from  the  favourable 
presence  of  God,  and  the  glorious  fellowship 
with  Christ,  his  saints,  and  all  his  holy  angels, 
into  hell,  to  be  punished  with  unspeakable  tor- 
ments, both  of  body  and  soul,  with  the  devil 
and  his  angels  for  ever.*/ 

not  the  angels  of  heaven,  but  my  Father  only.  v.  42.  Watch  there-, 
fore;  for  ye  know  not  what  hour  your  Lord  doth  come.  v.  44. 
Therefore  be  ye  also  ready:  for  in  such  an  hour  as  you  think  not, 
the  Son  of  man  cometh.  Luke  xxi.  35.  For  as  a  snare  shall  it  come 
on  all  them  that  dwell  on  the  face  of  the  whole  earth,  v.  36.  Watch 
ye  therefore,  and  pray  always,  that  ye  may  be  accounted  worthy  to 
escape  all  these  things  that  shall  come  to  pass,  and  to  stand  before 
the  Son  of  man. 

89.  a  Mat.  xxv.  33.  And  he  shall  set  the  sheep  on  his  right  hand, 
but  the  goats  on  the  left. 

b  Rom.  ii.  i£.  Which  shew  the  work  of  the  law  written  in  their 
hearts,  their  conscience  also  bearing  witness,  and  their  thoughts  the 
mean  while  accusing,  or  else  excusing  one  another,  v.  16.  In  the 
day  when  God  shall  judge  the  secrets  of  men  by  Jesus  Christ,  ac- 
cording to  my  gospel. 

c  Mat.  xxv.  41.  Then  shall  he  say  also  unto  them  en  the  left  hand, 
Depart  from  me,  ye  cursed,  into  everlasting  fire,  prepared  for  the 
devil  and  his  angels,  v.  42.  For  I  was  an  hungred,  and  ye  gave  me 
no  meat;  I  was  thirsty,  and  ye  gave  me  no  drink:  v.  43.  I  was  a 
stranger,  and  ye  took  me  not  in:  naked,  and  ye  clothed  me  not: 
sick,  and  in  prison,  and  ye  visited  me  not. 

d  Luke  xvi.  26.  And  besides  all  this,  between  us  and  you  there  is 
a  great  gulph  fixed :  so  that  they  which  would  pass  from  hence  to 
you,  cannot;  neither  can  they  pass  to  us,  that  would  come  from 
thence.  2  Thess.  i.  8.  In  flaming  fire,  taking  vengeance  on  them 
that  know  not  God,  and  that  obey  not  the  gospel  of  our  Lord  Jesus 
Christ:  v.  9.  Who  shall  be  punished  with  everlasting  destruction, 
from  the  presence  of  the  Lord,  and  from  the  glory  of  his  power. 


1 52  *fhe  Larger  Catechism. 

Q^  90.  What  shall  be  done  to  the  righteous  at 
the  day  of  judgment  f 

A.  At  the  day  of  judgment,  the  righteous,  be- 
ing caught  up  to  Christ  in  the  clouds,?  shall  be  set 
on  his  right  hand,  and  there  openly  acknowledg- 
ed and  acquitted ;/~  shall  join  with  him  in  the 
judging  of  reprobate  angels  and  men  ;g  and  shall 
be  received  into  heaven,/)  where  they  shall  be 
fully  and  for  ever  freed  from  all  sin  and  misery ;; 
filled  with  inconceivable  joys,^  made  perfectly 
holy  and  happy  both  in  body  and  soul,  in  the  com- 
pany of  innumerable  saints  and  holy  angels,/  but 

90.  e  1  Thess.  iv.  17.  Then  we  which  are  alive  and  remain,  shall 
be  caught  up  together  with  them  in  the  clouds,  to  meet  the  Lord  in 
the  air;  and  so  shall  we  ever  be  with  the  Lord. 

f  Mat.  xxv.  33.  And  he  shall  set  the  sheep  on  his  right  hand,  but 
the  goats  on  the  left.  Mat.  x.  32.  Whosoever  therefore  shall  confess 
me  before  men,  him  will  I  confess  also  before  my  Father  which  is  in 
heaven. 

g  1  Cor.  vi.  2.  Do  ye  not  know  that  the  saints  shall  judge  the  world  > 
and  if  the  world  shall  be  judged  by  you,  are  ye  unworthy  to  judge 
the  smallest  matters?  v.  3.  Know  ye  not  that  we  shall  judge  angels? 
how  much  more  things  that  pertain  to  this  life? 

k  Mat.  xxv.  34.  Then  shall  the  King  say  unto  them  on  his  right 
hand,  Come,  ye  blessed  of  my  Father,  inherit  the  kingdom  prepared 
for  you  from  the  foundation  of  the  world,  v.  46.  And  these  shall 
go  away  into  everlasting  punishment:  but  the  righteous  into  life 
eternal. 

i  Eph.  v.  27.  That  he  might  present  it  to  himself  a  glorious  church, 
not  having  spot  or  wrinkle,  or  any  such  thing;  but  that  it  should  be 
holy  and  without  blemish.  Rev.  xiv.  1  3.  And  I  heard  a  voice  from 
heaven  saying  unto  me,  Write,  Blessed  are  the  dead  which  die  in 
the  Lord,  from  henceforth :  yea,  saith  the  Spirit,  that  they  may  rest 
from  their  labours;  and  their  works  do  follow  them. 

k  Psal.  xvi.  11.  Thou  wilt  shew  me  the  path  of  life:  in  thy  pre- 
sence is  fulness  of  joy,  at  thy  right  hand  there  are  pleasures  forever- 
more. 

/  Heb.  xii.  22.  But  ye  are  come  unto  mount  Sion,  and  unto  the 
city  of  the  living  God,  the  heavenly  Jerusalem,  and  to  an  innumera- 
ble company  of  angels,  v.  23.  To  the  general  assembly  and  church 
of  the  fir^-born,  which  are  written  in  heaven,  and  to  Cod  the  judga 
of  all,  and  to  the  spirits  of  just  men  made  perfect. 


7*he  Larger  Catechism.  253 

especially  in  the  immediate  vision  and  fruition  of 
God  the  Father,  of  our  Lord  Jesus  Christ,  and  of 
the  Holy  Spirit,  to  all  eternity. m  And  this  is  the 
perfecl:  and  full  communion,  which  the  members 
of  the  invisible  church  shall  enjoy  with  Christ  in 
o-lory,  at  the  resurrection  and  day  of  judgment. 

Having  seen  what  the  scriptures  prin- 
cipally TEACH  US  TO  BELIEVE  CONCERN- 
ING God,  IT  FOLLOWS  TO  consider  what 
THEY  REQUIRE  AS  THE  DUTY  OF   MAN. 

Q.  9 1 .  What  is  the  duty  which  God  requireih 

of  man  f 

A.  The  duty  which  God  requireth  of  man,  is 
obedience  to  his  revealed  will.* 

Q.  92.  What  did  God  at  first  reveal  unto  man  as 
the  rule  of  his  obedience  ? 

A.  The  rule  of  obedience  revealed  to  Adam  in 

m  1  John  iii.  2.  Beloved,  now  are  we  the  sons  of  God ;  and  it  doth 
not  yet  appear  what  we  shall  be:  but  we  know,  that  when  he  shall 
appear,  we  shall  be  like  him ;  for  we  shall  see  him  as  he  is.  i  Cor. 
xiii.  12.  For  now  we  see  through  a  glass,  darkly;  but  then  face  to 
face:  now  I  know  in  part;  but  then  shall  1  know  even  as  also  I  am 
known,  i  Thess.  iv.  17.  Then  we  which  are  alive  and  remain, 
shall  be  caught  up  together  with  them  in  the  clouds,  to  meet  the  Lord 
in  the  air;  and  so  shall  we  ever  be  with  the  Lord.  v.  iS.  Where- 
fore comfort  one  another  with  these  words. 

91.  k  Rom.  xii.  1.  I  beseech  you,  therefore,  brethren,  by  the 
mercies  of  God,  that  ye  present  your  bodies  a  living  sacrifice,  holy, 
acceptable  unto  God,  which  is  your  reasonable  service,  v.  2.  And 
be  not  conformed  to  this  world':  but  be  ye  transformed  by  the  re- 
newing of  your  mind,  that  ye  mav  prove  what  is  that  good,  and  ac- 
ceptable, and  perfect  will  of  God.  Mic.  vi.  8.  He  hath  shewed 
thee,  O  man,  what  is  good;  and  what  doth  the  Lord  require  of  thee, 
but  to  do  justlv,  and  to  love  mercy,  and  to  walk  humbly  with  thy 
God?  1  Sam.  xv.  22.  And  Samuel  said,  Hath  the  Lord  as  great 
delight  in  burnt-offerings  and  sacrifices,  as  in  obeying  the  voice  ot 
the  Lord?  Behold,  to  obey  is  better  than  sacrifice;  and  to  hearken, 
than  the  fat  of  rams. 


254  ¥&?  Larger  Catechism. 

the  estate  of  innocence,  and  to  all  mankind  in 
him,  beside  a  special  command  not  to  eat  of  the 
fruit  of  the  tree  of  the  knowledge  of  good  and 
evil,  was  the  moral  law.o 

Q^  93.   What  is  the  moral  lazv  t 

Jl.  The  moral  law  is  the  declaration  of  the 
will  of  God  to  mankind,  directing-  and  bindins: 
every  one  to  personal,  perfect,  and  perpetual  con- 
formity and  obedience  therunto,  in  the  frame  and 
disposition   of  the  whole  man,  soul  and  body,^> 

92.  0  Gen.  i.  26.  And  God  said,  Let  us  make  man  in  our  image, 
after  our  likeness;  and  let  them  have  dominion  over  the  fish  of  the 
sea,  and  over  the  fowl  of  the  air,  and  over  the  cattle,  and  over  all  the 
earth,  and  over  every  creeping  thing  that  creepeth  upon  the  earth. 
v.  27.  So  God  created  man  in  his  own  image,  in  the  image  of  God 
created  he  him:  male  and  female  created  he  them.  Rom.  ii.  14.  For 
when  the  Gentiles,  which  have  not  the  law,  do  by  nature  the  things 
contained  in  the  law,  these  having  not  the  law,  are  a  law  unto  them- 
selves: v.  15.  Which  shew  the  work  of  the  law  written  in  their 
hearts,  their  conscience  also  bearing  witness,  and  their  thought:*  the 
mean  while  accusing,  or  else  excusing  one  another.  Rom.  x.  c.  For 
Moses  describeth  the  righteousness  which  is  of  the  law,  That  the 
man  which  doth  those  things,  shall  live  by  them.  Gen.  ii.  17.  But 
of  the  tree  of  the  knowledge  of  good  and  evil,  thou  shalt  not  eat  of 
it:  for  in  the  day  that  thou  eatest  thereof,  thou  shalt  surely  die. 

93.//  Deut.  v.  1.  And  Moses  called  all  Israel,  and  said  unto  them, 
Hear,  O  Israel,  the  statutes  and  judgments  «  hich  I  speak  in  your 
r:irs  this  day,  that  ye  may  learn  them,  and  keep,  and  do  them.  v.  2. 
The  Lord  our  God  made  a  covenant  with  us  in  Horeb.  v.  3.  The 
Lord  made  not  this  covenant  with  our  fathers,  but  with  us,  even  US, 
who  are  all  of  us  here  alive  this  day.  v.  31.  But  as  for  thee,  stand 
thou  here  by  me,  and  1  will  speak  unto  thee  all  the  commandments, 
and  the  statutes,  and  the  judgments  which  thou  shalt  teach  them,  that 
they  may  do  them  in  the  land  which  I  give  them  to  possess  it.  v.  33. 
You  shall  walk  in  all  the  ways  which  the  Lord  your  God  hath  com- 
manded you,  that  ye  may  live,  and  that  it  may  be  well  with  you,  and 
that  ye  mav  prolong  your  days  in  the  land  which  ye  shall  possess. 
Luke  x.  26.  He  said  unto  him.  What  is  written  in  the  law?  how 
rcadest  thou?  v.  27.  And  he  answering,  said,  Thou  shalt  love  the 
Lord  thy  God  with  all  thy  heart,  and  with  all  thy  soul,  and  with  all 
thy  strength,  and  with  all  thy  mind;  and  thy  neighbour  as  thyself. 
Gal.  iii.  10.  For  as  many  as  are  of  the  works  of  the  law,  are  under 
the  curse:  for  it  is  written,  Cursed  is  every  one  that  continueth  not 
in  all  things  which  are  written  in  the  book  of  the  law  to  do  them. 


f'he  Larger  Catechism.  255 

and  in  performance  of  all  those  duties  of  holiness 
and  righteousness  which  he  oweth  to  God  and 
man  \q  promising  life  upon  the  fulfilling,  and 
threatening  death  upon  the  breach  of  it.r 

Q.  94.  Is  there  any  use  of  the  moral  law  to  man 
since  the  fall? 

A.  Although  no  man,  since  the  fall,  can  attain 
to  righteousness  and  life  by  the  moral  law  ;s  yet 
there  is  great  use  thereof,  as  well  common  to  all 
men,  as  peculiar  either  to  the  unregenerate,  or 
the  regenerate./ 

Q.  95.  Of  what  use  is  the  moral  law  to  all 
men  f 

A.  The  moral  law  is  of  use  to  all  men,  to  in- 
form them  of  the  holy  nature  and  will  of  God,i; 

1  Thess.  v.  23.  And  the  very  God  of  peace  san&ify  you  wholly:  and 
I  pray  God  your  whole  spirit  and  soul  and  body  be  preserved  blame- 
less unto  the  coming  of  our  Lord  Jesus  Christ. 

q  Luke  i.  75.  In  holiness  and  righteousness  before  him,  all  the 
days  of  our  lite.  Acts  xxiv.  16.  And  herein  do  I  exercise  myself,  to 
have  alwavs  a  conscience  void  of  offence  toward  God,  and  toward 
men. 

r  Rom.  x.  5.  For  Moses  describeth  the  righteousness  which  is  of 
the  law,  That  the  man  which  doth  those  things,  shall  live  by  them, 
Gal.  hi.  10.  For  as  many  as  are  of  the  works  of  the  law,  are  under 
the  curse:  for  it  is  written,  Cursed  is  every  one  that  continueth  not 
in  all  things  which  are  written  in  the  book  of  the  law  to  do  them. 
v.  12.  And  the  law  is  not  of  faith:  but,  the  man  that  doth  them 
shall  live  in  them. 

94.  s  Rom.  viii.  3.  For,  what  the  law  could  not  do,  in  that  it  was 
weak  through  the  flesh,  God,  sending  his  own  Son  in  the  likeness  of 
sinful  flesh,  and  for  sin,  condemned  sin  in  the  flesh.  Gal.  ii.  16. 
Knowing  that  a  man  is  not  justified  by  the  works  of  the  law,  but  by 
tht  faith  of  Jesus  Christ;  even  we  have  believed  in  Jesus  Christ, 
that  we  might  be  justified  by  the  faith  of  Christ,  and  not  by  the 
works  of  the  law:  for  by  the  works  of  the  law  shall  no  flesh  be  jus- 
tified. 

/  1  Tim.  i.  8.  But  we  know  that  the  law  is  good,  if  a  man  use  it 
lawfully. 

95.  v  Lev.  xi.  44.  For  I  am  the  Lord  your  God :  ye  shall  therefore 
sandify  yourselves,  and  ye  shall  be  holy ;  for  I  am  holy ;  neither  shall 


256  The  Larger  Catechism* 

and  of  their  duty,  binding  them  to  walk  accord- 
ingly ;w  to  convince  them  of  their  disability  to 
keep  it,  and  of  the  sinful  pollution  of  their  na- 
ture, hearts,  and  lives  ;x  to  humble  them  in  the 
sense  of  their  sin  and  misery ,jy  and  thereby  help 
them  to  a  clearer  sight  of  the  need  they  have  of 
Christ, 5  and  of  the  perfection  of  his  obedience.* 

Q.  96.  What  particular  use  is  there  of  the  mo- 
ral law  to  unregenerate  men  ? 

A.  The  moral  law  is  of  use  to  unregenerate 

ye  defile  yourselves  with  any  manner  of  creeping  thing  that  creepeth 
upon  the  earth,  v.  45.  For  1  an)  the  Lord  that  bringeth  you  up  out  of 
the  land  of  Egypt,  to  be  your  God :  ye  shall  therefore  be  holy,  for  I 
am  holy.  Lev.  xx.  7.  Sanctify  yourselves  therefore,  and  be  ye  holy: 
for  I  am  the  Lord  your  God.  v.  8.  And  ye  shall  keep  my  statutes, 
and  do  them:  I  am  the  Lord  which  sanclify  you.  Rom.  vii.  12. 
Wherefore  the  law  is  holy  ;  and  the  commandment  holy,  and  just, 
and  good. 

w  Mic.  vi.  8.  He  hath  shewed  thee,  O  man,  what  is  good;  and 
what  doth  the  Lord  require  of  thee,  but  to  do  justly,  and  to  love 
mercy,  and  to  walk  humbly  with  thy  God  ?  James  ii.  10.  For  who- 
soever shall  keep  the  whole  law,  and  yet  otfend  in  one  point,  he  is 
guilty  of  all.  v.  1  r.  For  he  that  said,  Do  not  commit  adultery,  said 
also,  Do  not  kill.  Now  if  thou  commit  no  adultery,  yet  if  thou 
kill,  thou  art  become  a  transgressor  of  the  law. 

x  Psal.  xix.  11.  Moreover,  by  them  is  thy  servant  warned:  and 
in  keeping  of  them  there  is  great  reward,  v.  12.  Who  can  under- 
stand his  errors?  cleanse  thou  me  from  secret  faults.  Rom.  iii.  20. 
Therefore  by  the  deeds  of  the  law,  there  shall  no  flesh  be  justified  in 
his  sight:  for  by  the  law  is  the  knowledge  of  sin.  Rom.  vii.  7. 
What  shall  we  say  then?  is  the  law  s'u\  ?  God  forbid.  Nay,  I  had 
not  known  sin,  but  by  the  law  :  for  I  had  not  known  lust,  except 
the  law  had  said,  Thou  shalt  not  covet. 

y  Rom.  iii.  9.  What  thetl?  arc  we  better  than  they?  No,  in  no 
wibe:  for  we  have  before  proved  both  Jews  and  Gentiles,  that  they 
are  all  under  sin;  v.  23.  For  all  have  sinned,  and  come  short  of 
the  glory  of  God. 

z  Gal.  iii.  21.  Is  the  law  then  against  the  promises  of  God  ?  God 
forbid:  for  if  there  had  been  a  law  given  which  could  have  given 
life,  verily  righteousness  should  have  been  by  the  law.  v.  22.  But 
the  scripture  hath  concluded  all  under  sin,  that  the  promise  by  faith 
of  Jesus  Christ  might  be  given  to  them  that  believe. 

a  Rom.  x.  4.  For  Christ  is  the  end  of  the  law  for  righteousness  to 
every  one  that  believcth. 


tfhe  Larger  Catechism,  257 

men,  to  awaken  their  consciences  to  flee  from  the 
wrath  to  come,/'  and  to  drive  them  to  Christ  :c  or> 
upon  their  continuance  in  the  estate  and  way  of 
sin,  to  leave  them  inexcusable,^  and  under  the 
curse  thereof.*? 

0^97-  What  special  use  is  there  of  the  moral 
law  to  the  regenerate  f 

A.  Although  they  that  are  regenerate  and  be- 
lieve in  Christ,  be  delivered  from  the  moral  law 
as  a  covenant  of  works,/~  so  as  thereby  they  are 


96.  b  1  Tim.  1.  9.  Knowing  this,  that  the  law  is  not  made  for  a 
righteous  man,  but  for  the  lawless  and  disobedient,  for  the  ungodly 
and  for  sinners,  for  unholy  and  profane,  for  murderers  of  fathers, 
and  murderers  of  mothers,  for  man-slayers,  v.  10.  For  whoremon- 
gers, for  them  that  defile  themselves  with  mankind,  for  men-stealers, 
for  liars,  for  perjured  persons,  and  if  there  be  any  other  thing  that 
is  contrary  to  sound  doctrine. 

c  Gal.  iii.  24.  Wherefore  the  law  was  our  schoolmaster  to  bring 
us  unto  Christ,  that  we  might  be  justified  by  faith. 

d  Rom.  i.  20.  For  the  invisible  things  of  him  from  the  creation  of 
the  world  are  clearly  seen,  being  understood  by  the  things  that  are 
made,  even  his  eternal  power  and  Godhead ;  so  that  they  are  with- 
out excuse.  Compared  with  Rom.  ii.  15.  Which  shew  the  work 
of  the  law  written  in  their  hearts,  their  conscience  also  bearing  wit- 
ness, and  their  thoughts  the  mean  while  accusing,  or  else  excusing 
one  another. 

e  Gal.  iii.  10.  For  as  many  as  are  ofl  the  works  of  the  law,  are 
•under  the  curse:  for  it  is  written,  Cursed  is  every  one  that  continu- 
eth  not  in  all  things  which  are  written  in  the  book  of  the  law  to  do 
them. 

97.  f  Rom.  vh  14.  For  sin  shall  not  have  dominion  over  you; 
for  ye  are  not  under  the  law,  bur  under  grace.  Rom.  vii.  4.  Where- 
fore, my  brethren,  ye  also  are  become  dead  to  the  law  by  the  body 
of  Christ:  that  ye  should  be  married  to  another,  even  to  him  who  is 
raised  from  the  dead,  that  we  should  bring  forth  fruit  unto  God.  v. 
6.  But  now  we  are  delivered  from  the  law,  that  being  dead  wherein 
we  were  held;  that  we  should  serve  in  newness  of  spirit,  and  not  irt 
the  oldness  of  the  letter.  Gal.  iv.  4.  But  when  the  fulness  of  the 
time  was  come,  God  sent  forth  his  Son  made  of  a  woman,  made 
under  the  law,  v.  5.  To  redeem  them  that  were  under  the  law,  that 
we  might  receive  the  adoption  of  sons. 

2& 


£58  ^he  Larger  Catechism, 

neither  justified  g  nor  condemned  ;£  yet,  beside 
the  general  uses  thereof  common  to  them  with 
all  men,  it  is  of  special  use,  to  shew  them  how 
much  they  are  bound  to  Christ  for  his  fulfilling 
it,  and  enduring  the  curse  thereof  in  their  stead 
and  for  their  good ;/  and  thereby  to  provoke  them 
to  more  thankfulness,/'  and  to  express  the  same 
in  their  greater  care  to  conform  themselves  there- 
unto as  the  rule  of  their  obedience./ 

g  Rom.  iii.  20.  Therefore  by  the  deeds  of  the  law  there  shall  no 
flesh  be  justified  in  his  sight:  for  by  the  law  is  the  knowledge  of  sin. 

h  Gal.  v.  23.  Meekness,  temperance:  against  such  there  is  no 
law.  Rom.  viii.  1.  There  is  therefore  now  no  condemnation  to 
them  which  are  in  Christ  Jesus,  who  walk  not  after  the  flesh,  but 
after  the  spirit. 

i  Rom.  vii.  24.  O  wretched  man  that  I  am,  who  shall  deliver  me 
from  the  body  of  this  death!  v.  25.  I  thank  God,  through  Jesus 
Christ  our  Lord.  So  then,  with  the  mind  I  myself  serve  the  law  of 
God;  but  with  the  flesh  the  law  of  sin.  Gal.  iii.  13.  Christ  hath 
redeemed  us  from  the  curse  of  the  law,  being  made  a  curse  for  us; 
for  it  is  written,  Cursed  is  every  one  that  hangeth  on  a  tree:  v.  14. 
That  the  blessing  of  Abraham  might  come  on  the  Gentiles  through 
Jesus  Christ;  that  we  might  receive  the  promise  of  the  Spirit  through 
faith.  Rom.  viii.  3.  For  what  the  law  could  not  do,  in  that  it  was 
weak  through  the  flesh,  God,  sending  his  own  Son  in  the  likene 
of  sinful  fiesh,  and  for  sin,  condemned  sin  in  the  flesh:  v.  4.  That 
the  righteousness  of  the  law  might  be  fulfilled  in  us,  who  walk  not 
alter  the  flesh,  but  after  the  spirit. 

k  Luke  i.  68.  Blessed  be  the  Lord  God  of  Israel,  for  he  hath  visit 
ed  and  redeemed  his  people;  v.  69.  And  hath  raised  up  an  horn  of 
salvation  for  us,  in  the  house  of  his  servant  David,  v.  74.  That  he 
would  grant  unto  us,  that  ws,  being  delivered  out  of  the  hands  of 
our  enemies,  might  serve  him  without  lear,  v.  75.  In  holiness  and 
righteousness  before  him,  all  the  days  of  our  life.  Col.  i.  12.  Giving 
thanks  unto  the  Father,  which  hath  made  us  meet  to  be  partakers  of 
the  inheritance  of  the  saints  in  light:  v.  13.  Who  hath  delivered  us 
from  the  power  of  darkness,  and  hath  translated  us  into  the  kingdom 
of  his  dear  Son:  v.  14.  In  whom  we  have  redemption  through  his 
blood,  even  the  forgiveness  of  sins. 

/  Rom.  vii.  22.  For  I  delight  in  the  law  of  God,  after  the  inward 
man.  Rom.  xii.  2.  And  be  not  conformed  to  this  world :  but  be  ye 
transformed  by  the  renewing  of  your  mind,  that  ye  may  prove  what 
is  that  good,  and  acceptable,,  and  perfect  will  of  God.     Tit.  ii.  it. 


'The  Larger  Catechism.  259 

Q.  08.  Where  is  the  moral  law  summarily  com- 
prehended? 

A.  The  moral  law  is  summarily  comprehended 
jn  the  ten  commandments,  which  were  delivered 
by  the  voice  of  God  upon  mount  Sinai,  and  writ- 
ten by  him  in  two  tables  of  stone  \m  and  are  re- 
corded in  the  twentieth  chapter  of  Exodus.  The 
first  four  commandments  containing  our  duty  to 
God,  and  the  other  six  our  duty  to  man.w 

Q.  99.  What  rules  are  to  be  observed  for  the 
right  understanding  of  the  ten  commandments  f 

A.  For  the  right  understanding  of  the  ten 
commandments,  these  rules  are  to  be  observed; 

1.  That  the  law  is  perfecl,  and  bindeth  every 
one  to  full  conformity  in  the  whole  man  unto 
the  righteousness  thereof,  and  unto  entire  obedi- 

For  the  grace  of  God  that  bringeth  salvation  hath  appeared  to  all  men ; 
v.  12.  Teaching  us,  that  denying  ungodliness,  and  worldly  lusts,  we 
should  live  soberly,  righteously,  and  godly  in  this  present  world;  v. 
1 3.  Looking  for  that  blessed  hope,  and  the  glorious  appearing  of  the 
great  God  and  our  Saviour  Jesus  Christ:  v.  14.  Who  gave  himself 
for  us,  that  he  might  redeem  us  from  all  iniquity,  and  purify  unto 
himself  a  peculiar  people,  zealous  of  good  works. 

98.  m  Deut.  x.  4.  And  he  wrote  on  the  tables,  according  to  the 
first  writing,  the  ten  commandments  which  the  Lord  spake  unto  you 
in  the  mount,  out  of  the  midst  of  the  fire,  in  the  day  of  the  assembly : 
and  the  Lord  gave  them  unto  me.  Exod.  xxxiv.  1.  And  the  Lord 
said  unto  Moses,  Hew  thee  two  tables  of  stone  like  unto  the  first: 
and  I  will  write  upon  these  tables  the  words  that  were  in  the  first 
tables  which  thou  brakest.  v.  2.  And  be  ready  in  the  morning, 
and  come  up  in  the  morning  unto  mount  Sinai,  and  present  thyself 
there  to  me  in  the  top  of  the  mount,  v.  3.  And  no  man  shall  come 
up  with  thee,  &c.  v.  4.  And  he  hewed  two  tables  of  stone,  like  un- 
to the  first;  and  Moses  rose  up  early  in  the  morning,  and  went  up 
unto  mount  Sinai,  as  the  Lord  had  commanded  him,  and  took  in 
his  hand  the  two  tables  of  stone. 

n  Mat.  xxii.  37.  Jesus  said  unto  him,  Thou  shalt  love  the  Lord 
thy  God  with  all  thy  heart,  and  with  all  thy  soul,  and  with  all  thy 
mind.  v.  38.  This  is  the  first  and  great  commandment,  v.  39.  And 
the  second  is  like  unto  it,  Thou  shalt  love  thy  neighbour  as  thyself. 
v.  40.  On  these  two  commandments  hang  all  the  law  and  the  pro- 
phets. 


160  T'hc  Larger  Catechism. 

ence  for  ever;  so  as  to  require  the  utmost  per- 
fection of  every  duty,  and  to  forbid  the  least  de- 
gree of  every  sin. o 

2.  That  is  spiritual,  and  so  reachcth  the  un- 
derstanding, will,  affections,  and  all  other  powers 
of  the  soul ;  as  well  as  words,  works,  and  ges- 
tures.^ 

3.  That  one  and  the  same  thing,  in  diverse 
respects,  is  required  or  forbidden  in  several  com- 
mandments.^ 

99.  0  Psal.  xix.  7.  The  law  of  the  Lord  is  perfect,  converting  the 
soul:  the  testimony  of  the  Lord  is  sure,  making  wise  the  simple. 
James  ii.  10.  For  whosoever  shall  keep  the  whole  law,  and  yet  of- 
fend in  one  point,  he  is  guilty  of  all.  Mat.  v.  21.  to  the  end.  v.  21. 
Ye  have  heard  that  it  was  said  by  them  of  old  time,  Thou  shalt  not 
Mil:  and  whosoever  shall  kill,  shall  be  in  danger  of  the  judgment. 
v.  22.  But  I  say  unto  you,  That  whosoever  is  angry  with  his  brother 
■without  a  cause,  shall  be  in  danger  of  the  judgment:  and  whosoever 
shall  say  to  his  brother,  Raca,  shall  be  in  danger  of  the  council :  but 
whosoever  shall  say,  Thou  fool,  shall  be  in  danger  of  hell-fire. — v. 
»7-  Ye  have  heard  that  it  was  said  by  them  of  oid  time,  Thou  shalt 
not  commit  adultery,  v.  28.  But  I  say  unto  you,  That  whosoever 
looketh  on  a  woman  to  lust  after  her,  hath  committed  adultery  with 
her  already  in  his  heart. — v.  33.  Again,  ye  have  heard  that  it  hath 
been  said  by  them  of  old  time,  Thou  jhak  not  forswear  thyself,  but 
shalt  perform  unto  the  Lord  thine  oaths,  v.  34:.  But  I  say  unto  you, 
Swear  not  at  all;  neither  by  heaven,  for  it  is  God's  throne: — v.  37. 
But  let  your  communication  be,  Yea,  yea;  Nay,  nay:  for  whatsoever 
is  more  than  these,  cometh  of  evil.  v.  38.  Ye  have  heard  that  it  hath 
been  said,  An  eye  for  an  eye,  and  a  tooth  for  a  tooth,  v.  39.  But  I 
say  unto  you,  that  ye  resist  not  evil. — v.  43.  Ye  have  heard  that  it 
hath  been  said,  Thou  shalt  love  thy  neighbour,  and  hate  thine  ene- 
rnv.  v.  44.  But  I  say  unto  you,  Love  your  enemies;  bless  them  that 
curse  you;  do  good  to  them  that  hate  you;  and  pray  for  them  which 
<lespitefully  use  you,  and  persecute  you,  &c. 

h  Rom.  vii.  14.  For  we  know  that  the  law  is  spiritual:  but  I  am 
carnal,  sold  under  sin.  Deut.  vi.  5.  Thou  shalt  love  the  Lord  thy 
God  with  all  thine  heart,  and  with  all  thy  soul,  and  with  all  thy 
wight.  Compared  with  Mat.  xxii.  37.  Jesus  said  unto  him,  Thou 
shalt  love  the  Lord  thy  God  with  all  thy  heart,  and  with  all  thy  soul, 
and  with  all  thy  mind.  v.  38.  This  is  the  first  and  great  command- 
ment, v.  39.  And  the  second  is  like  unto  if,  Thou  shalt  love  thy 
neighbour  as  thyself. 

q  Col.  iii.  5.  Mortify,  therefore,  your  members  which  are  upon 


5l6<?  Larger  Catechism.  261 

4.  That  as,  where  a  duty  is  commanded,  the 
contrary  sin  is  forbidden  ;r  and,  where  a  sin  is 
forbidden,  the  contrary  duty  is  commanded  ;s 
so,  where  a  promise  is  annexed,  the  contrary 
threatening  is  included ;/  and,  where  a  threatening 
is  annexed,  the  contrary  promise  is  included.1!; 

the  earth :  fornication,  uncleanness,  inordinate  affedYion,  evil  con- 
cupiscence, and  covetousness,  which  is  idolatry.  Amos  viii.  5. 
Saying,  When  will  the  new-moon  be  gone,  that  we  may  sell  corn? 
and  the  Sabbath,  that  we  may  set  forth  wheat,  making  the  ephah 
small,  and  the  shekel  great,  and  falsifying  the  balances  by  deceit? 
Prov.  i.  19.  So  are  the  ways  of  every  one  that  is  greedy  of  gain : 
which  taketh  away  the  life  of  the  owners  thereof.  1  Tim.  vi.  10. 
For  the  love  of  money  is  the  root  of  all  evil:  which  while  some 
coveted  after,  they  have  erred  from  the  faith,  and  pierced  themselves 
through  with  many  sorrows. 

r  Isa.  lviii.  1 3.  If  thou  turn  away  thy  foot  from  the  Sabbath,  from 
doino-  thy  pleasure  on  my  holy  day;  and  call  the  Sabbath  a  delight, 
the  holv  of  the  Lord,  honourable;  and  shalt  honour  him,  not  doing 
thine  own  ways,  nor  finding  thine  own  pleasure,  nor  speaking  thine 
own  words-  Deut.  vi.  1  3.  Thou  shalt  fear  the  Lord  thy  God,  and 
serve  him,  and  shalt  swear  by  his  name.  Compared  with  Mat.  iv. 
9.  And  saith  unto  him,  All  these  things  will  I  give  thee,  if  thou 
wilt  fall  down  and  worship  me.  v.  10.  Then  saith  Jesus  unto  him, 
Get  thee  hence,  Satan :  for  it  is  written,  Thou  shalt  worship  the  Lord 
thy  God,  and  him  only  shalt  thou  serve.  Mat.  xv.  4.  For  God 
commanded,  saying,  Honour  thy  father  and  mother:  and,  He  that 
curseth  father  or  mother,  let  him  die  the  death,  v.  5.  But  ye  say, 
Whosoever  shall  say  to  his  father  or  his  mother,  It  is  a  gift  by  what- 
soever thou  mightest  be  profited  by  me;  v.  6.  And  honour  not  his 
father  or  his  mother,  he  shall  be  free.  Thus  have  ye  made  the  com- 
mandment of  God  of  none  effect  by  your  tradition. 

j  Mat.  v.  21,  22.  (See  letter  0)  v.  23.  Therefore  if  thou  bring  thy 
gift  to  the  altar,  and  there  rememberest  that  thy  brother  hath  ought 
against  thee;  v.  24.  Leave  there  thy  gift  before  the  altar,  and  go  thy 
wav ;  first  be  reconciled  to  thy  brother,  and  then  come  and  offer  thy 

gift.     Eph.  iv.  28.  Let  him  that  stole,  steal  no  more;  but  rather  let 

him  labour,  working  with  his  hands  the  thing  which  is  good,  that  he 

may  have  to  give  to  him  that  needeth. 

/  Exod.  xx.  12.  Honour  thy  father  and  thy  mother:  that  thy  days 

may  be  long  upon  the  land  which  the  Lord  thy  God  giveth  thee. 

Compared  with  Prov.  xxx.  17.  The  eye  that  mocketh  at  his  father, 

and  despiseth  to  obey  his  mother,  the  ravens  of  the  valley  shall  pick 

it  out,  and  the  young  eagles  shall  eat  it. 
v  Jer.  xviii,  7.  At  what  instant  I  shall  speak  concerning  a  nation, 


j.G 2  ^Thc  Larger  Catechism. 

5.  That  what  God  forbids,  is  at  no  time  to  be 
done  \w  what  he  commands,  is  always  ourduty  ;x 
and  yet  every  particular  duty  is  not  to  be  done  at 
all  times. v 

6.  That  under  one  sin  or  dutv,  all  of  the  same 
kind  arc  forbidden  or  commanded,  together  with 
all  the  causes,  means,  occasions,  and  appearan- 
ces thereof,  and  provocations  thereunto. z 

and  concerning  a  kingdom,  to  pluck  up,  and  to  pull  down,  and  to 
destroy  it:  v.  8.  If  that  nation,  against  whom  I  have  pronounced, 
turn  from  their  evil,  I  will  repent  of  the  evil  that  I  thought  to  do 
unto  them.  Exod.  xx.  7.  Thou  shalt  not  take  the  name  of  the  Lord 
thy  God  in  vain  :  for  the  Lord  will  not  hold  him  guiltless  that  taketh 
his  name  in  vain.  Compared  with  Psal.  xv.  1.  Lord,  who  shall 
abide  in  thy  tabernacle?  who  shall  dwell  in  thy  holy  hill?  v.  4.  In 
whose  eyes  a  vile  person  is  contemned;  but  he  honoureth  them  that 
fear  the  Lord:  he  that  sweareth  to  his  own  hurt,  and  changeth  not. 
v.  5.  He  that  putteth  not  out  his  money  to  usury,  nor  taketh  reward 
against  the  innocent.  He  that  doth  these  things,  shall  never  be  moved. 
And  with  Psal.  xxiv.  4.  He  that  hath  clean  hands,  and  a  pure  heart: 
who  hath  not  lifted  up  his  soul  unto  vanity,  nor  sworn  deceitfully, 
v.  <;.  He  shall  receive  the  blessing  from  the  Lord,  and  righteousness 
irom  the  God  of  his  salvation. 

to  Job  xiii.  7.  Will  you  speak  wickedly  for  God?  and  talk  deceit- 
fully for  him?  v.  8.  Will  ye  accept  his  person?  Will  ye  contend  for 
God?  Rom.  iii.  8.  And  not  rather,  (as  we  be  slanderously  report- 
ed, and  as  some  affirm  that  we  say),  Let  us  do  evil,  that  good  may 
come?  whose  damnation  is  just.  Job  xxxvi.  »t.  Take  heed,  regard 
not  iniquity:  for  this  hast  thou  chosen  rather  than  affliction.  Heb. 
xi.  25.  Choosing  rather  to  suffer  affliction  with  the  people  of  God, 
than  to  enjoy  the  pleasures  of  sin  for  a  season. 

x  Deut.  iv.  8.  And  what  nation  is  there  so  great,  that  hath  statutes 
and  judgments  so  righteous  as  all  this  law  which  I  set  before  you 
this  day  ?  v.  9.  Only  take  heed  to  thyself,  and  keep  thy  soul  diligently, 
lest  thou  forget  the  things  which  thine  eyes  have  seen,  and  lest  they 
depart  from  thy  heart  all  the  days  of  thy  life:  but  teach  them  thy 
miiis,  and  thy  sons'  sons. 

*  Mat.  xii.  7.  But  if  ye  had  known  what  this  mcaneth,  I  will  have 
mercy  and  not  sacrifice,  ye  would  not  have  condemned  the  guiltless. 

z  Mat.  v.  21,  22,  27,  28.  (See  in  letter  0  before).  Mat.  xv.  4.. 
For  God  commanded,  saying,  Honour  thy  father  and  mother :  and, 
He  that  CUKeth  father  or  mother,  let  him  die  the  death,  v.  5.  But 
ve  say,  Whosoever  shall  say  to  his  lather  or  his  mother,  It  is  a  gift 
in'  whatsoever  thou  mightest  be  profited  by  me  ;  v.  6.  And  honour 
not  his  father  or  his  mother,  he  shall  be  free.     Thus  have  ye  made 


The  Large?-  Catechism.  262 

■?.  That  what  is  forbidden  or  commanded  to 

ourselves,  we  are  bound,  according  to  our  places, 

'  to  endeavour  that  it  may  be  avoided  or  performed 

by  others,  according  to  the  duty  of  their  places.<z 

8.  That,  in  what  is  commanded  to  others,  we 
are  bound,  according  to  our  places  and  callings, 
to  be  helpful  to  them;^  and  to  take  heed  of  par- 
taking with  others  in  what  is  forbidden  them.c 

Q.  100.  What  special  things  ai~e  we  to  consider 
in  the  ten  commandments  f 

the  commandment  of  God  of  none  effect  by  your  tradition.  Heb. 
x.  24.  And  let  us  consider  one  other,  to  provoke  unto  love  and 
to  good  works:  v.  25.  Not  forsaking  the  assembling  of  ourselves  to- 
gether, as  the  manner  of  some  is;  but  exhorting  one  another:  and 
so  much  the  more,  as  ye  see  the  day  approaching.  1  Thess.  v.  22. 
Abstain  from  all  appearance  of  evil.  Jude  23.  And  others  save  with 
fear,  pulling  them  out  of  the  fire;  hating  even  the  garment  spotted 
by  the  flesh.  Gal.  v.  26.  Let  us  not  be  desirous  of  vain  glory,  pro- 
voking one  another,  envying  one  another.  Col.  iii.  21.  Fathers, 
provoke  not  your  children  to  anger,  lest  they  be  discouraged. 

a  Exod.  xx.  10.  But  the  seventh  day  is  the  Sabbath  of  the  Lord 
thy  God :  in  it  thou  shak  not  do  any  work,  thou,  nor  thy  son,  nor 
thy  daughter,  nor  thy  man-servant,  nor  thy  maid-servant,  nor  thy 
cattle,  nor  thy  stranger  that  is  within  thy  gates.  Lev.  xix.  1 7.  Thou 
shalt  not  hate  thy  brother  in  thine  heart:  thou  shalt  in  any  wise  re- 
bue  thy  neighbour,  and  not  suffer  sin  upon  him.  Gen.  xviii.  19, 
For  I  know  him,  that  he  will  command  his  children  and  his  house- 
hold after  him,  and  they  shall  keep  the  way  of  the  Lord,  to  do  jus- 
tice and  judgment:  that  the  Lord  may  bring  upon  Abraham  that 
which  he  hath  spoken  of  him.  Josh.  xxiv.  15.  And  if  it  seem  evil 
unto  you  to  serve  the  Lord,  choose  you  this  day  whom  ye  will  serve; 
whether  the  gods  which  your  fathers  served,  that  were  on  the  other 
side  of  the  flood,  or.  the  gods  of  the  Amorites  in  whose  land  ye 
dwell:  but  as  for  me  and  my  house,  we  will  serve  the  Lord.  Deut, 
vi.  6.  And  these  words  which  I  command  thee  this  day,  shall  be  in 
thine  heart,  v.  7.  And  thou  shalt  teach  them  diligently  unto  thy 
children;  and  shalt  talk  of  them  when  thou  sittest  in  thine  house, 
and  when  thou  walkest  by  the  way,  and  when  thou  liest  down,  and 
when  thou  risest  up. 

b  2  Cor.  i.  24.  Not  for  that  we  have  dominion  over  your  faith, 
but  are  helpers  of  your  joy:  for  by  faith  ye  stand. 

c  1  Tim.  v.  22.  Lay  hands  suddenly  on  no  man,  neither  be  par- 
taker of  other  men's  sins:  keep  thyself  pure.  Eph.  v.  11.  And  have 
no  fellowship  with  the  unfruitful  works  oi  darkness,  but  rather  re- 
prove them, 


264  The  Larger  Catechhin. 

A.  We  are  to  consider  in  the  ten  command- 
ments, the  preface,  the  substance  of  the  com- 
mandments themselves,  and  several  reasons  an- 
nexed to  some  of  them  the  more  to  enforce  them. 

Q^  1  o  1 .  IVhat  is  the  preface  to  the  ten  com- 
mandments ? 

A.  The  preface  to  the  ten  commandments  is 
contained  in  these  words,  I  am  the  Lord  thy  God 
which  have  brought  thee  out  of  the  land  of  Lgypt, 
out  of  the  house  of  bondage. d  Wherein  God  ma- 
nifested his  sovereignty,  as  being  Jehovah,  the 
eternal,  immutable,  and  almighty  God  \e  having: 
his  being  in  and  of  himself^  and  giving  being  to 
all  his  words^  and  works  :h  and  that  he  is  a  God 
in  covenant,  as  with  Israel  of  old,  so  with  all  his 
people;/  who,  as  he  brought  them  out  of  their 
bondage  in  Egypt,  so  he  delivereth  us  from  our 
spiritual  thraldom  ;/•  and  that  therefore  we  are 

101.  d  Exod.  xx.  2. 

e  Isa.  xliv.  6.  Thus  saith  the  Lord  the  King  of  Israel,  and  his  re- 
deemer the  Lord  of  hosts,  I  am  the  first,  and  I  am  the  last;  and  be- 
side mc  there  is  no  God. 

/Exod.  iii.  14.  And  God  said  unto  Moses,  I  AM  THAT  I  AM: 
and  he  said,  Thus  shalt  thou  say  unto  the  children  of  Israel,  I  AM 
hath  sent  me  unto  you. 

g  Exod.  vi.  3.  And  I  appeared  unto  Abraham,  unto  Isaac,  and 
unto  Jacob,  by  the  name  of  God  Almighty,  but  by  my  name  JE- 
HOVAH was  I  not  known  to  them. 

h  A£ts  xvii.  24.  God  that  made  the  world  and  all  things  therein, 
seeing  that  he  is  Lord  of  heaven  and  earth,  dwelled]  not  in  temples 
made  with  hands,  v.  2S.  For  in  him  we  live,  and  move,  and  have 
our  being;  as  certain  aLo  of  your  own  poets  have  said,  For  we  are 
also  his  offspring. 

1  Gen.  xvii.  7.  And  I  will  establish  my  covenant  between  me  and 
thee,  and  thy  seed  after  thee  in  their  generations,  for  an  everlasting 
covenant;  to  be  a  God  unto  thee,  and  to  thy  beed  alter  thee.  Com- 
pared with  Rom.  iii.  29.  Is  he  the  God  of  the  Jews  only?  ib  be  not 
al  0  of  the  Gentiles?     Yes,  of  the  Gentiles  also. 

£  Luke  i.  74.  That  he  would  grant  unto  u>,  that  we,  being  delivered 
out  of  the  hands  ot  our  enemies,  might  serve  him  w  itLuut  fear,  v.  -5.. 
In  holincis  and  righteousness  before  him,  all  the  days  ol  our  life. 


The  Larger  Catechism.  26$ 

bound  to  take  him  for  our  God  alone,  and  to  keep 
all  his  commandments./ 

Q^  102.  What  is  the  sum  of  the  four  command- 
ments which  contain  our  duty  to  God? 

A.  The  sum  of  the  four  commandments  con- 
taining our  duty  to  God,  is,  to  love  the  Lord  our 
God  with  all  our  heart,  and  with  all  our  soul,  and 
with  all  our  strength,  and  with  all  our  mind.^ 

Q^  103.  What  is  the  first  commandment  f 

A,  The  first  commandment  is,  'thou  shaft 
have  no  other  gods  before  me.n 

Q^  104.  Which  are  the  duties  required  in  the 
first  commandment  f 

A.  The  duties  required  in  the  first  command- 
ment are,  the  knowing  and  acknowledging  of 
God,  to  be  the  only  true  God,  and  our  God;o 

/  1  Pet.  i.  15.  But  as  he  which  hath  called  you  is  holy,  so  be  ye 
holy  in  all  manner  of  conversation;  v.  16.  Because  it  is  written,  Be 
ye  holy,  for  I  am  holy.  v.  17.  And  if  ye  call  on  the  Father,  who 
without  respeft  of  persons  judgeth  according  to  every  man's  work, 
pass  the  time  of  your  sojourning  here  in  fear:  v.  18.  Forasmuch  as 
ye  know  that  ye  were  not  redeemed  with  corruptible  things,  as  silver 
and  gold,  from  your  vain  conversation  received  by  tradition  from 
your  fathers.  Lev.  xviii.  30.  Therefore  shall  ye  keep  mine  ordi- 
nance, that  ye  commit  not  any  one  of  these  abominable  customs, 
which  were  committed  before  you,  and  that  ye  defile  not  yourselves 
therein:  I  am  the  Lord  your  God.  Lev.  x'ix.  37.  Therefore  shall 
ye  observe  all  my  statutes,  and  all  my  judgments,  and  do  them:  I 
am  the  Lord. 

102.  tn  Luke  x.  27.  And  he  answering,  said,  Thou  shalt  love  the 
Lord  thy  God  with  all  thy  heart,  and  with  all  thy  soul,  and  with  all 
thy  strength,  and  with  all  thy  mind  j  and  thy  neighbour  as  thy  self. 

103.  n  Exod.  xx.  3. 

104.  0  1  Chron.  xxviii.  9.  And  thou,  Solomon  my  son,  know 
thou  the  God  of  thy  father,  and  serve  him  with  a  perfect  heart,  and 
with  a  willing  mind:  for  the  Lord  searcheth  all  hearts,  and  under- 
standeth  all  the  imaginations  of  the  thoughts:  if  thou  seek  him,  he 
will  be  found  of  thee:  but  if  thou  forsake  him,  he  will  cast  thee  off 
forever.  Deut.  xxvi.  i  7.  Thou  hast  avouched  the  Lord  this  day  to 
be  thy  God,  and  to  walk  in  his  ways,  and  to  keep  his  statutes,  and 
his  commandments,  and  his  judgments,  and  to  hearken  unto  hrs 
voice.     Isa.  xiiii.  10.  Ye  ars  my  witnesses,  saith  the  Lord,  and  my 

2  L 


lC6  7 'he  Larger  Catechhni. 

and  to  worship  and  glorify  him  accordingly,/)  by 
thinking,^  meditating, r  remembering,*  highly 
esteeming,/  honouring,!;  adoring,w  choosinp-^ 
loving,^  desiring, z  fearing  of   him;«  believing 

servant  whom  I  have  chosen:  that  ye  may  know  and  believe  me, 
and  understand  that  I  am  he:  before  me  there  was  no  God  formed, 
neither  shall  there  be  after  me.  Jer.  xiv.  22.  Are  there  any  among 
the  vanities  of  the  Gentiles  that  can  cause  rain  5  or  can  the  heavens 
give  showers?  Art  not  thou  he,  O  Lord  our  God?  therefore  we 
will  wait  upon  thee;  for  thou  hast  made  all  these  things. 

Ji  Psal.  xcv.  6.  O  come,  let  us  worship  and  bow  down;  let  us 
kneel  before  the  Lord  our  Maker,  v.  7.  For  ht  is  our  God,  and  wc 
are  the  people  of  his  pasture,  and  the  sheep  of  his  hand.  Mat.  iv. 
10.  Then  saith  Jesus  unto  him,  Get  thee  hence,  Satan :  for  it  is  writ- 
ten, Thou  shah  worship  the  Lord  thy  God,  and  him  only  shalt 
thou  serve.  Psal.  xxix.  2.  Give  unto  the  Lord  the  glory  due  unto 
his  name;  worship  the  Lord  in  the  beauty  of  holiness. 

q  Mai.  iii.  16.  Then  they  that  feared  the  Lord  spake  often  one  to 
another,  and  the  Lord  hearkened,  and  heard  it,  and  a  book  of  re- 
membrance was  written  before  him  for  them  that  feared  the  Lord, 
and  that  thought  upon  his  name. 

r  Psal.  lxiii.  6.  When  I  remember  thee  upon  my  bed,  and  meditate 
on  thee  in  the  night-watches. 

s  Eccl.  xii.  1.  Remember  now  thy  Creator  :n  the  days  of  th7 
youth,  while  the  evil  days  come  not,  nor  the  years  draw  nigh,  when 
thou  shalt  say,  I  have  no  pleasure  in  them. 

/  Psal.  lxxi.  19.  Thy  righteousness  also,  O  God,  is  very  high, 
who  hast  done  great  things:     O  God,  who  is  like  unto  thee? 

<v  Mai.  i.  6.  A  son  honoureth  his  father,  and  a  servant  his  master; 
if  then  I  be  a  father,  where  is  mine  honour?  and  if  I  be  a  master, 
where  is  my  fear?  saith  the  Lord  of  hosts  unto  you,  O  priests  that 
despise  my  name. 

■zv  lsa.  xlv.  23.  I  have  sworn  by  myself,  the  word  is  gone  out  of 
my  mouth  in  righteousness,  and  shall  not  return,  that  unto  me  every 
knee  shall  bow,  every  tongue  shall  swear. 

x  Josh.  xxiv.  15.  And  if  it  seem  evil  unto  you  to  serve  the  Lord, 
choose  you  this  day  whom  ye  will  serve,  whether  the  gods  which 
your  fathers  served,  that  were  on  the  other  side  of  the  flood,  or  the 
gods  of  the  Amorites  in  whose  land  ye  dwell:  but  as  for  me  and  my 
house,  we  will  serve  the  Lord.  v.  22.  And  Joshua  said  unto  the 
people,  Ye  are  witnesses  against  yourselves,  that  ye  have  chosen  the 
Lord,  to  serve  him.     And  they  said,  We  are  witnesses. 

y  Deut.  vi.  5.  And  thou  shalt  love  the  Lord  thy  God  with  all  thint 
heart,  and  with  all  thy  soul,  and  with  all  thy  might. 

x.  1'  al.  lxxiii.  2^.  Whom  have  1  in  heaven  but  thee?  ami  there  i. 
none  upon  earth  that  I  desire  besides  thee. 

a  lsa.  v iii.  1 3.  Sanctify  the  Lord  of  hosts  himself,  and  let  him  be 
your  fear,  and  let  him  be  your  dread. 


7*he  Larger  Catechism.  267 

him;£  trusting,?  hoping,^  delighting,*  rejoicing 
in  him  \f  being  zealous  for  him  ;g  calling  upon 
him  ;  giving  all  praise  and  thanks,/?  and  yield- 
ing all  obedience  and  submission  to  him  with  the 
whole  man;/  being  careful  in  all  things  to  please 
him,/£  and  sorrowful  when  in  any  thing  he  is  of- 
fended;/ and  walking  humbly  withhim.w 

Q^  105.    What  are  the  sins  forbidden  in  thefrst 
commandment  f 

(  b  Exod.  xiv.  3r.  And  Israel  saw  that  great  work  which  the  Lord 
did  upon  the  Egyptians:  and  the  people  feared  the  Lord,  and  believed 
the  Lord,  and  his  servant  Moses. 

c  Isa.  xxvi.  4.  Trust  ye  in  the  Lord  forever:  for  in  the  Lord  Je- 
hovah is  everlasting  strength. 

rfPsal.  cxxx.  7.  Let  Israel  hope  in  the  Lord:  for  with  the  Lord 
there  is  mercy,  and  with  him  is  plenteous  redemption. 

_  e  Psal.  xxxvii.  4.  Delight  thyself  also  in  the  Lord;  and  he  shall 
give  thee  the  desires  of  thine  heart. 

f  Psal.  xxxii.  1 1.  Be  glad  in  the  Lord,  and  rejoice,  ye  righteous; 
and  shout  for  joy,  all  ye  that  are  upright  in  heart. 
J  g  Rom.  xii.  n.  Not  slothful  in  business,  fervent  in  spirit ;  serv- 
ing the  Lord.  Compared  with  Numb.  xxv.  11.  Phinehas  the  son 
of  Eleazar,  the  son  of  Aaron  the  priest,  hath  turned  my  wrath  away 
from  the  children  of  Israel  (while  he  was  zealous  for  my  sake  among 
Jhem)  that  I  consumed  not  the  children  of  Israel  in  my  jealousy. 

h  Phil,  i v.  6.  Be  careful  for  nothing:  but  in  every  thing  by  prayer 
and  supplication  with  thanksgiving,  let  your  requests  be  made  known 
unto  God. 

i  Jer.  vii.  23.  But  this  thing  commanded  I  them,  saving,  Obey 
my  voice,  and  I  will  be  your  God,  and  ye  shall  be  mv  people:  and 
walk  ye  in  all  the  ways  that  I  have  commanded  you,  that  it  may  be 
well  unto  you.  Jam.  iv.  7.  Submit  yourselves  therefore  to  God: 
resist  the  devil,  and  he  will  flee  from  you. 

k  1  John  iii.  22.  And  whatsoever  we  ask,  we  receive  of  him,  be- 
.cause  we  keep  his  commandments,  and  do  those  things  that  are  pleas- 
ing in  his  sight. 

ul  Je£;,  xxxi-  l8-  Ihave  slireIy  heard  Ephraim  bemoaning  himself 
thus;  Thou  hast  chastised  me,  and  I  was  chastised,  as  a  bullock  un- 
accustomed to  the  yoke:  turn  thou  me,  and  I  shall  be  turned;  for 
thou  art  the  Lord  my  God.  Psal.cxix.  136.  Rivers  of  waters  run 
down  mine  eyes:  because  they  keep  not  thy  law. 

m  M.c  vi.  8.  He  hath  shewed  thee,  O  man,  what  is  good;  and 
what  doth  the  Lord  require  of  thee,  but  to  do  justly,  and  to  love 
mercy,  and  to  walk  humbly  with  thy  God  ? 


2  68  The  Larger  Catechism. 

A-  The  sins  forbidden  in  the  first  command- 
ment are,  Atheism,  in  denying,  or  not  having  a 
God;«  Idolatry,  in  having  or  worshipping  more 
gods  than  one,  or  any  with  or  instead  of  the  true 
God;<?  the  not  having  and  avouching  him  for 
God,  and  our  God;p  the  omission  or  neglect  of 
any  thing  due  to  him,  required  in  this  command- 
ment;^ ignorance,r  forgetfulness,/  misapprehen- 

105.  n  Psal.  xiv.  1.  The  fool  hath  said  in  his  heart,  There  is  no 
God:  they  are  corrupt,  they  have  done  abominable  works,  there  is 
none  that  doth  good.  Eph.  ii.  12.  That  at  that  time  ye  were  with- 
out Christ,  being  aliens  from  the  common  wealth  of  Israel,  and 
strangers  from  the  covenants  of  promise,  having  no  hope,  and  with- 
out God  in  the  world. 

0  Jer.  ii.  27.  Saying  to  a  stock,  Thou  art  my  father;  and  to  a 
stone,  Thou  hast  brought  me  forth:  for  they  have  turned  their  back 
unto  me,  and  not  their  face:  but  in  the  time  of  their  trouble  they 
Will  say,  Arise,  and  save  us.  v.  28.  But  where  are  thy  gods  that 
thou  hast  made  thee?  let  them  arise  if  they  can  save  thee  in  the  time 
of  thy  trouble:  for  according  to  the  number  of  thy  cities,  are  thy 
gods,  O  Judah.  Compared  with  1  Thess.  i.  9.  For  they  themselves 
shew  of  us,  what  manner  of  entering  in  we  had  unto  you,  and  how 
ye  turned  to  God  from  idols,  to  serve  the  living  and  true  God. 

p.  Psal.  lxxxi.  1 1.  But  my  people  would  not  hearken  to  my  voice: 
and  Israel  would  none  of  me. 

q  Isa.  xliii.  22.  But  thou  hast  not  called  upon  me,  O  Jacob,  but 
thou  hast  been  weary  of  me,  O  Israel,  v.  23.  Thou  hast  not  brought 
me  the  small  cattle  of  thy  burnt-offerings,  neither  hast  thou  honour- 
ed me  with  thy  sacrifices.  I  have  not  caused  thee  to  serve  with  an 
offering,  nor  wearied  thee  with  incense,  v.  24.  Thou  hast  bought 
me  no  sweet  cane  with  money,  neither  hast  thou  filled  me  with  the 
fat  of  thy  sacrifices:  but  thou  hast  made  me  to  serve  with  thy  sins, 
thou  hast  wearied  me  with  thine  iniquities. 

r  Jer.  iv.  22.  For  my  people  is  foolish,  they  have  not  known  me; 
they  are  sottish  children,  and  they  have  none  understanding:  they  are 
wise  to  do  evil,  but  to  do  good  they  have  nn  knowledge.  Hos.  iv.  1. 
Hear  the  word  of  the  Lord,  ye  children  of  Israel:  for  the  Lord  hath 
a  controversy  with  the  inhabitants  of  the  land,  because  there  is  no 
truth,  nor  mercv,  nor  knowledge  of  God  in  the  land.  v.  6.  My 
people  are  destroyed  for  lack  of  knowledge:  because  thou  hast  reject- 
ed knowledge,  1  also  will  reject  thee,  that  thou  shalt  be  no  priest  to 
mc:  seeing  thou  hast  forgotten  the  law  of  thy  God,  I  will  also  forget 
thy  children. 

s  Jer.  ii.  32.  Can  a  maid  forget  her  ornaments,  or  a  bride  her  at- 
tire? yet  my  people  have  forgotten  me  days  without  number. 


tfhe  "Larger  Catechism.  269 

s:ons,/  false  opinions/J  unworthy  and  \v: 
thoughts  of  bimyut  bold  and  curious  searching 
into  his  secrets  ;x  all  profaneness,^  hatred  of  God  ;z 
self-love  ;a  self-seeking, 3  and  all  other  inordi- 
nate and  immoderate  setting  of  our  mind,  will, 
or  affections,  upon  other  things,  and  taking  them 
off  from  him  in  whole  or  in  part  \c  vain  credu- 

t  Acts  xvii.  23.  For  as  I  passed  by,  and  beheld  your  devotions,  I 
found  an  altar  witn  tnis  inscription,  TO  THE  UNKNOWN  GOD, 
Whom  therefore  ye  ignorantiy  worship,  him  declare  I  unto  you.  v. 
29.  Forasmuch  then  as  vre  are  the  offspring  of  God,  we  ought  not 
to  think  that  the  Godhead  is  like  unto  gold,  or  silver,  or  stone  graven 
by  art  and  man's  device. 

•  Isa.  xl.  18.  To  whom  then  will  ye  liken  God?  or  what  likeneis 
will  ye  compare  unto  hi.    i 

is  Psal.  I.  21.  These  things  hast  thou  done,  and  I  kept  silence: 
thou  thoughtest  that  I  was  altogether  such  a  one  as  thvself :  but  I  will 
reprove  thee,  and  set  them  in  order  before  thine  eyes. 

x  Deut.  xxix.  29.  The  secret  things  belong  unto  the  Lord  our 
God:  but  those  tilings  which  are  revealed  belong  unto  us  and  to  our 
children  forever,  that  we  may  do  all  the  words  of  this  law. 

y  Tit.  i.  16.  Tney  profess  that  they  know  God;  but  in  works  they 
deny  him;  being  abominable,  and  disobedient,  and  unto  every  good 
work  reprobate.  Heb.  xii.  16.  Lest  there  be  any  fornicator,  or  pro- 
fane person,  as  Eiau,  who,  for  one  morsel  of  meat,  sold  his  birtn- 
right. 

z  R.0111.  i.  30.  Backbi.ers,  haters  of  God,  despiteful,  proud,  boast- 
ers.— 

a  2  Tim.  iii.  2.  For  men  shall  be  lovers  of  their  own  selves,  covet- 
ous, boasters,  proud,  blasphemers,  disobedient  to  parents,  unthank- 
ful, unholy. 

b  Phil.  ii.  21.  For  all  seek  their  own,  not  the  things  which  are  Je- 
eu^  Christ's. 

c  1  John  ii.  15.  Love  not  the  world,  neither  the  things  that  are 
in  the  world.  If  any  man  love  the  world,  the  love  of  the  Father  is 
not  in  him.  v.  16.  For  all  that  is  in  the  world,  the  lust  of  the  flesh, 
and  the  lust  of  the  eyes,  and  the  pride  of  life,  is  not  of  the  Father, 
but  is  of  the  world.  1  Sam.  ii.  29.  Wherefore  kick  ye  at  my  sacri- 
fice and  at  mine  offering  which  1  have  commanded  in  my  habita- 
tion, and  honourest  thy  sons  above  me,  to  make  yourselves  fat  with 
the  chiefest  of  all  the  offerings  of  Israel  my  people?  Col.  iii.  2.  Set 
your  affection  on  things  above,  not  on  things  on  the  earth,  v.  5. 
Mortify  therefore  your  members  which  are  upon  the  earth;  fornica- 
tion, uncleanness,  inordinate  affection,  evil  concupiscence,  and 
covetousness,  which  is  idolatry. 


27°  The  Larger  Catechism. 

Yitjid  unbelief,*  heresy,/"  misbelief,^  distrust,^ 
despair;/  incorrigibleness,£  and  insensibleness  un- 
der judgments,/  hardness  of  heart,;;/  pride,«  pre- 
sumption,0  carnal  security  ,/>  tempting  of  God  \q 
using  unlawful  means, r  and  trusting  in  lawful 


d  i  John  iv.  1.  Beloved,  believe  not  every  spirit,  but  try  the  spirits 
whether  they  are  of  God:  because  many  false  prophets  are  gone  out 
into  the  world. 

e  Heb.  iii.  12.  Take  heed,  brethren,  lest  there  be  in  any  of  you 
an  evil  heart  of  unbelief,  in  departing  from  the  living  God. 

/"Gal.  v.  20.  Idolatry,  witchcraft,  hatred,  variance,  emulations, 
wrath,  strife,  seditions,  heresies.  Tit.  iii.  10.  A  man  that  is  an 
heretic,  after  the  first  and  second  admonition,  reject. 

g  Acts  xxvi.  9.  I  verily  thought  with  myself,  that  I  ought  to  do 
many  things  contrary  to  the  name  of  Jesus  of  Nazareth. 

h  Psttl.  lxxviii.  22.  Because  they  believed  not  in  God,  and  trusted 
not  in  his  salvation. 

i  Gen.  iv.  1  3.  And  Cain  said  unto  the  Lord,  My  punishment  is 
greater  than  I  can  bear. 

k  Jer.  v.  3.  O  Lord,  are  not  thine  eyes  upon  the  truth?  Thou 
hast  stricken  them,  but  they  have  not  grieved;  thou  hast  consumed 
them,  but  they  have  refused  to  receive  correction :  they  have  made 
their  faces  harder  than  a  rock;  thev  have  refused  to  return. 

/  Isa.  xlii.  25.  Therefore  he  hath  poured  upon  him  the  fury  of  his 
anger,  and  the  strength  of  battle:  and  it  hath  set  him  on  fire  round 
about,  yet  he  knew  not;  and  it  burned  him,  yet  he  laid  it  not  to 
heart. 

m  Rom.  ii.  5.  But  after  thy  hardness  and  impenitent  heart,  trea- 
surest  up  unto  thyself  wrath  against  the  day  of  wrath,  and  revelation 
of  the  righteous  judgment  of  God. 

•  Jer.  xiii.  15.  Hear  ye,  and  give  ear,  be  not  proud:  for  the 
Lord  hath  spoken. 

0  Psal.  xix.  13.  Keep  back  thy  servant  also  from  presumptuous 
sins;  let  them  not  have  dominion  over  me:  then  shall  I  be  upright, 
and  I  shall  be  innocent  from  the  great  transgression. 

p  Zeph.  i.  12.  And  it  shall  come  to  pass  at  that  time,  that  I  will 
search  Jerusalem  with  candles,  and  punish  the  men  that  are  settled 
on  their  lees;  that  say  in  their  heart,  The  Lord  will  not  do  good, 
neither  will  he  do  evil. 

y  Mat.  iv.  7.  Jesus  said  unto  him,  It  is  written  again,  Thou  shalt 
not  tempt  the  Lord  thy  God. 

r  Rom.  iii.  8.  And  not  rather,  (as  we  be  slanderously  reported, 
and  as  some  afiirm  that  we  say)  Let  us  do  evil,  that  good  may  come.-1 
whose  damnation  is  just. 


'The  Larger  Catechism.  271 

means  ;s  carnal  delights  and  joys  ;t  corrupt,  blind, 
and  indiscreet  zeal  ;v  lukewarmness,w  and  dead- 
ness  in  the  things  of  God  \x  estranging  ourselves, 
and  apostatizing  from  God  \y  praying,  or  giving 
any  religious  worship,  to  saints,  angels,  or  any- 
other  creatures  ;z    all  compacts   and  consulting 

s  Jer.  xvii.  5.  Thus  saith  the  Lord,  Cursed  be  the  man  that  trust- 
eth  in  man,  and  maketh  flesh  his  arm,  and  whose  heart  departeth 
from  the  Lord. 

/  2  Tim.  iii.  4.  Traitors,  heady,  high-minded,  lovers  of  pleasure 
more  than  lovers  of  God. 

v  Gal.  iv.  1  7.  They  zealously  affecl:  you,  but  not  well;  yea,  they 
would  exclude  you,  that  you  might  affect  them.  John  xvi.  2.  They 
shall  put  you  out  of  the  synagogues:  yea,  the  time  cometh,  that 
whosoever  killeth  you  will  think  that  he  doth  God  service.  Rom. 
x.  2.  For  I  bear  them  record,  that  they  have  a  zeal  of  God$  but  not 
according  to  knowledge.  Luke  ix.  54.  And  when  his  disciples 
James  and  John  saw  this,  they  said,  Lord,  wilt  thou  that  we  com- 
mand fire  to  come  down  from  heaven,  and  consume  them,  even  as 
Eliasdid?  v.  55.  But  he  turned,  and  rebuked  them,  and  said,  Ye 
know  not  what  manner  of  spirit  ye  are  of. 

10  Rev.  iii.  16.  So  then  because  thou  art  lukewarm,  and  neither 
cold  nor  hot,  I  will  spue  thee  out  of  my  mouth. 

x  Rev.  iii.  1.  And  unto  the  angel  of  the  church  in  Sardis,  write, 
These  things  saith  he  that  hath  the  seven  spirits  of  God,  and  the  seven 
stars;  I  know  thy  works,  that  thou  hast  a  name  that  thou  livest, 
and  art  dead. 

y  Ezek.  xiv.  5.  That  I  may  take  the  house  of  Israel  in  their  own 
heart,  because  they  are  all  estranged  from  me  through  their  idols. 
Isa.  i.  4.  Ah  sinful  nation,  a  people  laden  with  iniquity,  a  seed  of 
evil  doers,  children  that  are  corrupters;  they  have  forsaken  the  Lord, 
they  have  provoked  the  holy  One  of  Israel  unto  anger,  they  are 
gone  away  backward,  v.  5.  Why  should  ye  be  stricken  any  more? 
ye  will  revolt  more  and  more:  the  whole  head  is  sick,  and  the  whole 
heart  faint. 

z  Rom.  x.  1 3.  For  whosoever  shall  call  upon  the  name  of  the  Lord, 
shall  be  saved,  v.  14.  How  then  shall  they  call  on  him  in  whom 
they  have  not  believed?  and  how  shall  they  believe  in  him  of  whom 
they  have  not  heard?  and  how  shall  they  hear  without  a  preacher? 
Hos.  iv.  12.  My  people  ask  counsel  at  tiieir  stocks,  and  their  staff 
declareth  unto  them;  for  the  spirit  of  whoredoms  hath  caused  them 
to  err,  and  they  have  gone  awhoring  from  under  their  God.  Acls 
x.  25.  And  as  Peter  was  coming  in,  Cornelius  met  him,  and  fell 
down  at  his  feet,  and  worshipped  him.  v.  26.  But  Peter  took  him 
up,  saying,  Stand  up;  I  myself  alio  am  a  man.    Rev,  xix.  10.  And 


272  The  Larger  Catechism. 

with  the  devils  and  hearkening  to  his  sugges- 
tions;^ making  men  the  Lords  of  our  faith  and 
conscience  \c  slighting  and  despising  God,  and  his 
commands;^  resisting  and  grieving  of  his  Spirit^ 

I  fell  at  his  feet  to  worship  him:  and  he  said  unto  me,  See  thou  do 
it  not:  I  am  thy  fellow-servant,  and  of  thy  brethren  that  have  the 
testimony  of  Jesus:  worship  God:  for  the  testimony  of  Jesus  is  the 
spirit  of  prophecy.  Mat.  iv.  10.  Then  saith  Jesus  unto  him,  Get 
thee  hence,  Satan:  for  it  is  written,  Thou  shalt  worship  the  Lord 
thy  God,  and  him  only  shalt  thou  serve.  Col.  ii.  18.  Let  no  man 
beguile  you  of  your  reward,  in  a  voluntary  humility,  and  worship- 
ping of  angels,  intruding  into  those  things  which  he  hath  not  seen, 
vainly  puffed  up  by  his  fleshly  mind.  Rom.  i.  25.  Who  changed  the 
truth  of  God  into  a  lie,  and  worshipped  and  served  the  creature 
more  than  the  Creator,  who  is  blessed  forever.     Amen. 

a  Lev.  xx.  6.  And  the  soul  that  turneth  after  such  as  have  familiar 
spirits,  and  after  wizards,  to  go  awhoring  after  them,  I  will  even 
set  my  face  against  that  soul,  and  will  cut  him  oft  from  among  his 
people.  1  Sam.  xxviii.  7.  Then  said  Saul  unto  his  servants,  Seek 
me  a  woman  that  hath  a  familiar  spirit,  that  I  may  go  to  her,  and 
enquire  of  her.  And  his  servants  said  to  him,  Behold,  there  is  a 
woman  that  hath  a  familiar  spirit  at  Endor.  Y.  It.  Then  said  the 
woman,  Whom  shall  1  bring  up  unto  thee?  and  he  said,  Bring  me 
up  Samuel.  Compared  with  1  Chron.  x.  13.  So  Saul  died  for  his 
transgression  which  he  committed  against  the  Lord,  even  against  the 
word  of  the  Lord,  which  he  kept  not,  and  also  for  asking  counsel 
of  one  that  had  a  familiar  spirit,  to  enquire  of  it;  v.  14.  And  en- 
quired not  of  the  Lord:  therefore  he  slew  him,  and  turned  the 
kingdom  unto  David,  the  son  of  Jesse. 

b  Ads  v.  3.  But  Peter  said,  Ananias,  why  hath  Satan  filled  thine 
heart  to  lie  to  the  Holy  Ghost,  and  to  keep  back  part  of  the  price  of 
the  land  ? 

c  2  Cor.  i.  24.  Not  for  that  we  have  dominion  over  your  faith, 
but  are  helpers  of  your  joy:  for  by  faith  ye  stand.  Mat.  xxiii.  9. 
And  call  no  man  your  father  upon  the  earth :  for  one  ii  your  Father 
u  hich  is  in  heaven. 

</ Dent,  xxxii.  15.  But  Jeshurun  waxed  fat,  and  kicked:  thou  art 
waxen  fat,  thou  art  grown  thick,  thou  art  covered  with  fatness;  then 
he  forsook  God  which  made  him,  and  lightly  esteemed  the  Rock  of 
his  salvation.  2  Sam.  xii.  9.  Wherefore  hast  thou  despised  the 
commandment  of  the  Lord,  to  do  evil  in  his  sight?  thou  hast  killed 
Uriah,  the  Hittite,  with  the  sword,  and  hast  taken  his  wife  to  be  thy 
wife,  and  hast  slain  him  with  the  sword  of  the  children  of  Amnion. 
Prov.  xiii.  13.  Whoso  despiseth  the  word,  shall  be  destroyed;  but 
he  that  feareth  the  commandment,  shall  be  rewarded. 

i  Ads  vii.  51.  Ye  Stiff  necked  and  uncircumciscd  in  heart  and 


tf/je  Larger  Catechism.  2J$ 

discontent  and  impatience  at  his  dispensations, 
charging  him  foolishly  for  the  evils  he  inflicts  on 
us;/"  and  ascribing  the  praise  of  any  good  we 
either  are,  have,  or  can  do,  to  fortune,^  idols,/6 
ourselves,/  or  any  other  creature.^ 

Q.  1 06.  What  are  we  especially  taught  by  these 
words ',  [Before  me]  in  the  first  commandment f 

A.  These  words  [Before  me]  or  before  my  face, 

ears,  ye  do  always  resist  the  Holy  Ghost:  as  your  fathers  did,  so  do 
ye.  Eph.  iv.  30.  And  grieve  not  the  holy  Spirit  of  God,  wheieby 
ye  are  sealed  unto  the  day  of  redemption. 

/Psal.  lxxiii.  2.  But  as  for  me,  my  feet  were  almost  gone:  my 
steps  had  well  nigh  slipt.  v.  3.  For  I  was  envious  at  the  foolish, 
when  I  saw  the  prosperity  of  the  wicked,  v.  13.  Verily  I  have 
cleansed  my  heart  in  vain,  and  washed  my  hands  in  innocency.  v. 
14.  For  all  the  day  long  have  I  been  plagued,  and  chastened  every 
morning,  v.  15.  If  I  say,  I  will  speak  thus:  behold,  I  should  of- 
fend against  the  generation  of  thy  children,  v.  22.  So  foolish  was  I, 
and  ignorant:  I  was  as  a  beast  before  thee.  Job  i.  22.  In  all  this 
Job  sinned  not,  nor  charged  God  foolishly. 

g  1  Sam.  vi.  7.  Now,  therefore,  make  a  new  cart,  and  take  two 
milch-kine  on  which  there  hath  come  no  yoke,  and  tie  the  kine  to 
the  cart,  and  bring  their  calves  home  from  them:  v.  8.  And  take 
the  ark  of  the  Lord,  and  lay  it  upon  the  cart,  and  put  the  jewels  o£ 
gold  which  ye  return  him  for  a  trespass-offering,  in  a  coffer  by  the 
side  thereof,  and  send  it  away,  that  it  may  go.  v.  9.  And  see,  if  it 
goeth  up  by  the  way  of  his  own  coast  to  Beth-shemesh,  then  he  hath 
done  us  this  great  evil :  but  if  not,  then  we  shall  know  that  it  is  aot 
his  hand  that  smote  us ;  it  was  a  chance  that  happened  to  us. 

h  Dan,  v.  23.  But  hast  lilted  up  thyself  against  the  Lord  of  heaven, 
and  they  have  brought  the  vessels  of  his  house  before  thee,  and  thou, 
and  thy  lords,  thy  wives  and  thy  concubines  have  drunk  wine  in  them, 
and  thou  hast  praised  the  gods  of  silver  and  gold,  of  brass,  iron,  wood, 
and  stone,  which  see  not,  nor  hear,  nor  know;  and  the  God  in 
whose  hand  thy  breath  is,  and  whose  are  all  thy  ways,  hast  thou  not 
glorified. 

/  Deut.  viii.  17.  And  thou  say  in  thine  heart,  My  power  and  the 
might  of  my  hand  hath  gotten  me  this  wealth.  Dan.  iv.  30.  The 
king  spake,  and  said,  Is  not  this  great  Babylon  that  I  have  built  for 
the  house  of  the  kingdom,  by  the  might  of  my  power,  and  for  the 
honour  of  my  majesty? 

k  Hab.  i.  16.  Therefore  they  sacrifice  unto  their  net,  and  burn 
incense  unto  their  drag:  because  by  them  their  portion  is  fat,  and 
their  meat  plenteous. 

2M 


i/4-  The  Larger  Catechism, 

in  the  first  commandment,  teach  us,  that  God* 
who  seeth  all  things,  takes  special  notice  of,  and 
is  much  displeased  with,  the  sin  of  having  any- 
other  god:  that  so  it  may  be  an  argument  to  dis- 
suade from  it,  and  to  aggravate  it  as  a  most  im- 
pudent provocation  ;/  as  also  to  persuade  us  to  do 
as  in  his  sight,  whatever  we  do  in  his  service.*? 

Q^  107.  Which  is  the  second  commandment  f 

A.  The  second  commandment  is,  'Thou  shalt 
not  make  unto  thee  any  graven  image,  or  any  like- 
ness of  any  thing  that  is  in  heaven  above,  or  that  is 
in  the  earth  beneath,  or  that  is  in  the  water  under 
the  earth.  'Thou  shalt  not  bow  down  thyself  to  them, 
nor  serve  them:  for  I  the  Lord  thy  God  am  a  jea- 
lous God,  visiting  the  iniquity  of  the  fathers  upon  the 
children  unto  the  third  and  fourth  generation  of  them 
that  hate  me :  and  shewing  mercy  unto  thousands  of 
them  that  love  me,  and  keep  my  commandment  sm 

Q^  108.  What  are  the  duties  required  in  the  se- 
cond commandment  f 

A.  The  duties  required  in  the  second  com- 
mandment  are,   the  receiving,   observing,   and 

106.  /  Ezek.  viii  5.  Then  said  he  unto  me,  Son  of  man,  lift  up 
thine  eyes  now  the  way  toward  the  north:  so  I  lilted  up  mine  eyes 
the  way  toward  the  north,  and  behold  northward,  at  the  gate  of  the 
altar,  this  image  of  jealousy  in  the  entry,  v.  6.  He  said  furthermore 
unto  me,  Son  of  man,  seest  thou  what  they  do?  even  the  great  abo- 
minations that  the  house  ot  Israel  commirteth  here,  that  I  should  go 
far  off  from  my  sancluary  ?  but  turn  thee  yet  again,  and  thou  shalt  see 
greater  abominations,  Esfif.  (to  the  end  of  the  ciiapter.)  Psal.  *liv.  20. 
If  we  have  forgotten  the  name  of  our  God,  or  stretched  out  our 
hands  to  a  strange  god:  v.  21.  Shall  not  God  search  this  out?  for 
he  knoweth  the  secrets  of  the  heart. 

m  1  Chron.  xxviii.  9.  And  thou,  Solomon  my  son,  know  thou 
the  God  of  thy  father,  and  serve  him  with  a  perfect  heart,  and  with 
a  willing  mind  :  for  the  Lord  searched!  all  hearts,  and  understandeth 
all  the  imaginations  of  the  thoughts:  if  thou  seek  him,  he  will  be 
found  of  thee;  but  il  thou  forsake  him,  he  will  cast  thee  off  lor  ever. 

107.  11  Exod.  xx.  4,  5,  6. 


The  Larger  Catechism.  275 

keeping  pure  and  entire,  all  such  religious  wor- 
ship and  ordinances  as  God  hath  instituted  in  his 
word  ;o  particularly  prayer  and  thanksgiving  in 
the  name  of  Christ  \p  the  reading,  preaching,  and 
hearing  of  the  word;^  the  administration  and  re- 
ceiving of  the  sacraments  ;r  church-government 

108.  0  Deut.  xxxii.  46.  And  he  said  unto  them,  Set  your  hearts 
unto  all  the  words  which  I  testify  among  you  this  day;  which  ye 
shall  command  your  children  to  observe  to  do  all  the  words  of  this 
law.  v.  47.  For  it  is  not  a  vain  thing  for  you  :  because  it  is  your 
life;  and  through  this  thing  ye  shall  prolong  your  days  in  the  land 
whither  ye  go  over  Jordan  to  possess  it.  Mat.  xxviii.  20.  Teaching 
them  to  observe  all  things  whatsoever  I  have  commanded  you  :  and 
]o,  I  am  with  you  alway,  even  unto  the  end  of  the  world.  Acts  ii. 
42.  And  they  continued  stedfastly  in  the  apostles'  doctrine  and  fel- 
lowship, and  in  breaking  of  bread,  and  in  prayers.  1  Tim.  vi.  13. 
I  give  thee  charge  in  the  sight  of  God,  who  quickeneth  all  things, 
and  before  Christ  Jesus,  who  before  Pontius  Pilate  witnessed  a  good 
confession  ;  v.  14.  That  thou  keep  this  commandment  without  spot, 
unrebukable,  until  the  appearing  of  our  Lord  Jesus  Christ. 

Ji  Phil.  iv.  6.  Be  careful  for  nothing:  but  in  every  thing  by 
prayer  and  supplication  with  thanksgiving,  let  your  requests  be  made 
known  unto  God.  Eph.  v.  20.  Giving  thanks  always  for  all  things 
unto  God  and  the  Father,  in  the  name  of  our  Lord  Jesus  Christ. 

q  Dent.  xvii.  18.  And  it  shall  be  when  he  sitteth  upon  the  throne 
of  his  kingdom,  that  he  shall  write  him  a  copy  of  this  law  in  a  book, 
out  of  that  which  is  before  the  priests  the  Levites:  v.  19..  And  it  shall 
be  with  him,  and  he  shall  read  therein  all  the  days  of  his  life:  that  he 
may  learn  to  fear  the  Lord  his  God,  to  keep  all  the  words  of  this  law 
and  these  statutes,  to  do  them.  Acts  xv.  21.  For  Moses  of  old 
time  hath  in  every  city  them  that  preach  him,  being  read  in  the  syna- 
gogues every  Sabbath-day.  2  Tim.  iv.  2,.  Preach  the  word,  be  in- 
sta/it  in  season,  out  of  season;  reprove,  rebuke,  exhort  with  all  long- 
suffering  and  doctrine.  James  i.  21.  Wherefore  lay  apart  all  filthi- 
ness,  and  superfluity  of  naughtiness,  and  receive  with  meekness  the 
ingrafted  word  which  is  able  to  save  your  souls,  v.  22-  But  be  ve 
doers  of  the  word,  and  not  hearers  only,  deceiving  your  own  selves. 
Acts  x.  33.  Immediately,  therefore,  I  sent  to  thee;  and  ihou  hast  well 
done  that  thou  art  come.  Now,  therefore,  are  we  all  here  present 
before  God,  to  hear  all  things  that  are  commanded  thee  of  God. 

r  Mat.  xxviii.  19.  Go  ye  therefore  and  teach  all  nations,  baptizing 
them  in  the  name  of  the  Father,  and  of  the  Son,  and  of  the  Holy 
Ghost.  1  Cor.  xi.  from  verse  23  to  verse  30.  For  I  have  received 
of  the  Lord,  that  which  also  I  delivered  unto  you,  that  the  Lord  Je~ 
sus,  the  same  night  in  which  he  was  betrayed,  took  bread,  &c» 


2~6  The  Larger  Catechism. 

and  discipline  ;s  the  ministry  and  maintenance 
thereof;/  religious  fasting yu  swearing  by  the 
name  of  God,w  and  vowing  unto  him  ;x  as  also 
the  disapproving,  detesting,  opposing  all  false 
worship  \y  and  according  to  each  one's  place  and 

j  Mat.  xviii.  15.  Moreover,  if  thy  brother  shall  trespass  against 
thee,  go  and  tell  him  his  fault  between  thee  and  him  alone:  if  he 
shall  hear  thee,  thou  hast  gained  thy  brother,  v.  16.  But  if  he  will 
not  hear  thee,  then  take  with  thee  one  or  two  more,  that  in  the 
mouth  of  two  or  three  witnesses  every  word  may  be  established,  v. 
1  7.  And  if  he  shall  neglect  to  hear  them,  tell  it  unto  the  church  ;  but 
it  he  neglect  to  hear  the  church,  let  him  be  unto  thee  as  an  heathen 
rnan  and  a  publican.  Mat.  xvi.  19.  And  I  will  give  unto  thee  the 
keys  of  the  kingdom  of  heaven:  and  whatsoever  thou  shalt  bind  on 
earth,  shall  be  bound  in  heaven:  and  whatsoever  thou  shalt  loose  on 
earth,  shall  be  loosed  in  heaven.  1  Cor.  v.  chapter  1  Cor.  xii.  28. 
And  God  hath  set  some  in  the  church,  first  apostle-,  secondarily 
prophets,  thirdly  teachers,  after  that  miracles,  then  gilts  of  healing, 
helps,  governments,  diversities  of  tongues. 

/  Eph.  iv.  ir.  And  he  gave  some,  aposdes;  and  some,  prophets ; 
and  some,  evangelists;  and  some,  pastors  and  teachers:  v.  12.  For 
tiie  perfecting  ot  the  saints,  tor  the  work  of  the  ministry,  for  the  edi- 
fying of  the  body  ot  Christ.  1  Tim.  v.  17.  Let  the  elders  that  rule 
well,  be  counted  worthy  of  double  honour,  especially  they  who  la- 
bour in  the  word  and  doctrine,  v.  18.  For  the  scripture  saith,  Thou 
shalt  not  muzzle  the  ox  that  treadeth  out  the  corn  :  and,  The  labourer 
5s  worthy  of  his  reward.  1  Cor.  ix.  7 — 15.  Who  goeth  a  warfare 
any  time  at  his  own  charges?  who  planteth  a  vineyard,  and  eateth 
not  ot  the  fruit  thereof?  or  who  feedeth  a  flock,  and  eateth  not  of 
the  milk  of  the  flock?  &c. 

v  Joel  ii.  12.  Therefore  also  now,  saith  the  Lord,  Turn  ye  even 
tome  with  all  your  heart,  and  with  fasting,  and  with  weeping,  and 
with  mourning;  v.  13.  And  rend  your  heart,  and  not  yon 
ments,  and  turn  unto  the  Lord  your  G  >d  :  lor  he  is  gracious  a/id 
merciful. —  1  Cor.  vii.  5.  Defraud  ye  not  one  the  other,  except  it  be 
with  consent,  for  a  time,  that  ye  may  give  yourselves  to  fasting  and 
prayer. — 

to  Deut.  vi.  1  3.  Thou  shalt  fear  the  Lord  thy  God,  and  serve  him, 
and  shalt  swear  by  his  name. 

.v  Isa.  xix.  21.  And  the  Lord  shall  be  known  to  Egypt,  and  the 

Egyptian   shall  know  the  Lord  in  that  day,  and  shall  do  sacrifice  and 

they  shall  vow  a  vow  unto  the  Lord,  and  perform  it. 

Psal.  lxxvi.  11.   \  ow,  and  pay  unto  the  Lord  your  God;  let  all  that 

be  round  about  him  bring  presents  unto  him  that  ought  to  be  hand. 

j>  Acts  xvii.  16.  Now  while  Paul  waited  for  them  at  Athens,  his 
rpirit  was  stirred  in  him,  when  he  saw  the  city  wholly  given  to  idol- 


T'he  Larger  Catechism,  277 

calling,  removing  it,  and  ail  monuments  of  idol- 


atrv.z 


Q^ioq.  What  are  the  sins  forbidden  in  the  se- 
cond commandment  f 

A.  The  sins  forbidden  in  the  second  command- 
ment are,  all  devising,^  counselling,^  command- 
ing^ using,^/  and  any  wise  approving  any  reli- 


atry-  v.  \  jr.  Therefore  disputed  he  in  the  synagogue  with  the  Jews, 
and  with  the  devout  persons,  and  in  the  market  daily  with  thern  that 
met  with  him.  Psal.  xvi.  4.  Their  sorrows  shall  be  multiplied  that 
hasten  after  another  God  :  their  drink-offerings  of  blood  will  I  not 
offer,  nor  take  up  their  names  into  my  lips. 

z  Deut.  vii.  5.  But  this  shall  ye  deal  with  them,  ye  shall  destroy 
their  altars,  and  break  down  their  images,  and  cut  down  their  groves, 
and  burn  their -graven  images  with  fire.  Isa.  xxx.  22.  Ye  shall  de- 
file also  the  covering-of  thy  graven  images  of  silver,  and  the  orna- 
ment of  thy  molten  images  of  gold  :  thou  shalt  cast  them  away  as  a 
menstruous  cloth,  thou  shalt  say  unto  it,  Get  thee  hence. 

109.  a  Numb.  xv.  39.  And  it  shall  be  unto  you  for  a  fringe,  that 
ye  may  look  upon  it,  and  remember  all  the  commandments  of  the 
Lord,  and  do  them :  and  that  ye  seek  not  after  your  own  heart,  and 
your  own  eyes,  after  which  ve  use  to  go  awhoring. 

b  Deut.  xiii.  6.  If  thy  brother,  the  son  of  thy  mother,  or  thy 
son,  or  thy  daughter,  or  the  wife  of  thy  bosom,  or  thy  friend,  whicn 
is  as  thine  own  soul,  entice  thee  secretly,  saying,  Let  us  go  and  serve 
other  gods,  (which  thou  hast  not  known,  thou  nor  thy  fathers;  v. 
7.  Namely,  of  the  gods  of  the  people  which  are  round  about  you, 
nigh  unto  thee,  or  far  off  from  thee,  from  the  on!  end  of  the  earth 
even  unto  the  other  end  of  the  earth,)  v.  8.  Thou  shalt  not  consent 
unto  him,  nor  hearken  unto  him;  neither  shall  thine  eye  pity  him, 
neither  shalt  thou  spare,  neither  shalt  thou  conceal  him. 

c  Hos.  v.  11.  Ephraim  is  oppressed,  and  broken  in  judgment, 
because  he  willingly  walked  after  the  commandment.  Mic.  vi.  16.. 
For  the  statutes  of  Omri  are  kept,  and  all  the  works  of  the  house  of 
Ahab,  and  ye  walk  in  their  counsels,  that  I  should  make  thee  a  deso- 
lation, and  the  inhabitants  thereof  an  hissing:  therefore  ye  shall 
bear  the  reproach  of  my  people. 

d  1  Kings  xi.  33.  Because  that  they  have  forsaken  me,  and  have 
worshipped  Ashtoreth  the  goddess  of  the  Zidonians,  Chemosh  the 
god  of  the  Moabites,  and  Milcom  the  god  of  the  children  of  Ammon, 
and  have  not  walked  in  my  ways  to  do  that  which  is  richt  in  mine 
eyes,  and  to  keep  my  statutes  and  mv  judgments,  as  did  David  his 
fathen  1  Kings  xii.  33.  So  he  offered  upon  the  altar  which  he  had 
made  in  Bethel,  the  fifteenth  day  of  the  eighth  month,  even  in  the 


2  "8  *The  Larger  Catechism. 

gious  worship  not  instituted  by  God  himself;*? 
authorizing  a  false  religion;/  the  making  anv  re- 
presentation of  God,  of  all,  or  of  any  of  the  three 
persons,  either  inwardly  in  our  mind,  or  out- 
wardly in  any  kind  of  image  or  likeness  of  any 
creature    whatsover  :g    all    worshipping    of    it; 

month  which  he  had  devised  of  his  own  heart :  and  ordained  a  feast 
unto  the  children  of  Israel,  and  he  offered  upon  the  altar,  and  burnt 
incense. 

c  Dcut.  xii.  ;o.  Take  heed  to  thyself  that  thou  be  not  snared  by 
following  them,  after  that  they  be  destroyed  from  before  thee,  and 
that  thou  enquire  not  after  their  gods,  saying,  How  did  these  na- 
tions serve  their  gods?  even  so  will  I  do  likewise,  v.  31.  Thou 
shalt  not  do  so  unto  the  Lord  thy  God :  for  every  abomination  to  the 
Lord  which  he  hateth,  have  they  done  unto  their  gods :  for  even 
their  sons  and  their  daughters  they  have  burnt  in  the  fire  to  their  gods. 
v.  32.  What  thing  soever  I  command  you,  observe  to  do  it:  thou, 
shalt  not  add  thereto,  nor  diminish  from  it. 

f  Exod.  xx.  3.  Thou  shalt  have  no  other  gods  before  me.  Deut, 
xii.  32.  What  thing  soever  I  command  you,  observe  to  do  it:  thou 
shalt  not  add  thereto,  nor  diminish  from  it.  Mat.  xv.  9.  But  in  vain 
they  do  worship  me,  teaching  for  doctrines  the  commandments  of 
men.  Rev.  xvii.  12.  And  the  ten  horns  which  thou  sawest,  are  ten 
kings,  which  have  received  no  kingdom  as  yet;  but  receive  power 
as  kings  one  hour  with  the  beast,  v.  16.  And  the  ten  horns  which 
thou  sawest  upon  the  beast,  these  shall  hate  the  whore,  and  shall 
make  her  desolate,  and  naked,  and  shall  eat  her  flesh,  and  burn  her 
with  fire.  v.  1  7.  For  God  hath  put  in  their  hearts  to  fulfil  his  will, 
and  to  agree,  and  give  their  kingdom  unto  the  beast,  until  the  words, 
of  God  shall  be  fulfilled. 

r  Drut.  iv.  15.  Take  ve  therefore  good  heed  unto  yourselves  (for 
ye  saw  no  manner  of  similitude  on  the  day  that  the  Lord  spake  unto 
you  in  Horeb,  out  of  the  midst  of  the  fire,)  v.  16.  Lest  ye  corrupt 
yourselves,  and  make  you  a  graven  image,  the  similitude  of  any 
figure,  the  likeness  of  male  or  female,  v.  17.  The  likeness  of  any 
beast  that  is  on  the  earth,  the  likeness  of  any  winged  fowl  that  flieth 
in  the  air,  v.  18.  The  likeness  of  any  thing  that  creepeth  on  the 
ground,  the  likeness  of  anv  fish  that  is  in  the  waters  beneath  the 
earth:  v.  19.  And  lest  thou  lilt  up  thine  eyes  unto  heaven,  and  when 
thou  scest  the  sun,  and  the  moon,  and  the  stars,  even  all  the  host  of 
heaven,  shouldst  be  driven  to  worship  them,  and  serve  them,  which 
the  Lord  thy  God  hath  divided  unto  all  nations  under  the  whole  hea- 
ven. Acts  xvii.  29.  Forasmuch  then  as  we  are  the  offspring  of  God, 
we  ought  not  to  think  that  the  Godhead  is  like  unto  gold,  or  silver, 
or  stone  graven  by  art  and  man's  device.     Rom.  i.  21.  Because  that 


The  Larger  Catechism.  ±jq 

h  or  God  in  it  or  by  it ;/  the  making  of  any  repre- 
sentation of  feigned  deities,/^  and  all  worship  of 
them,  or  service  belonging  to  them ;/  all  super- 
stitious devices,;^  corrupting  the  worship  of  God,« 

when  they  knew  God,  they  glorified  him  not  as  God,  neither  were 
thankful,  but  became  vain  in  their  imaginations,  and  their  foolish 
heart  was  darkened,  v.  22.  Professing  themselves  to  be  wise,  they 
became  fools:  v.  23.  And  changed  the  glory  of  the  uncorruptible 
God,  into  an  image  made  like  to  corruptible  man,  and  to  birds,  and 
four-footed  beasts,  and  creeping  things,  v.  25.  W  ho  changed  the 
truth  of  God  into  a  lie,  and  worshipped  and  served  the  creature 
more  than  the  Creator,  who  is  blessed  for  ever.     Amen. 

h  Dan.  iii.  18.  But  if  not,  be  it  known  unto  thee,  O  king,  that 
we  will  not  serve  thy  gods,  nor  worship  the  golden  image  which 
thou  hast  set  up.  Gal.  iv.  8.  Howbeit,  then  when  you  knew  not 
God,  ye  did  service  unto  them  which  by  nature  are  no  gods. 

i  Exod.  xxxii.  5.  And  when  Aaron  saw  it,  he  built  an  altar  before 
it,  and  Aaron  made  proclamation,  and  said,  To-morrow  is  a  feast 
to  the  Lord. 

k  Exod.  xxxii.  8.  They  have  turned  aside  quickly  out  of  the  way 
which  I  commanded  them  :  they  have  made  them  a  molten  calf,  and 
have  worshipped  it,  and  have  sacrificed  thereunto,  and  said,  These 
be  thy  gods,  O  Israel,  which  have  brought  thee  up  out  of  the  land 
of  Egypt. 

/  1  Kings  xviii.  26.  And  they  took  the  bullock  which  was  given 
them,  and  they  dressed  it,  and  called  on  the  name  of  Baal  from  morn- 
ing even  unto  nocn,  saving,  O  Baal,  hear  us.  But  there  was  no 
voice,  nor  any  that  answered.  And  they  leapt  upon  the  altar  which 
was  made.  v.  28.  And  they  cried  aloud,  and  cut  themselves  after 
their  manner  with  knives  and  lancets,  till  the  blood  gushed  out  upon 
them.  Isa.  lxv.  11.  But  ye  are  they  that  forsake  the  Lore,  that  for- 
get my  holy  mountain,  that  prepare  a  table  for  that  troop,  and  that 
furnish  the  drink-offering  unto  that  number. 

m  Acts  xvii.  22.  Then  Faul  stood  in  the  midst  of  Mars-hill,  and 
said,  Ye  men  of  Athens,  I  perceive  that  in  all  things  ye  are  too  su- 
perstitious. Col.  ii.21.  (Touch  not,  taste  not,  handle  not:  v.  22. 
Which  all  are  to  perish  with  the  using)  after  the  commandments 
and  doctrines  of  men.  v.  23.  Which  things  have  indeed  a  shew  of 
wisdom  in  will-worship  and  humility,  and  neglecting  of  the  body, 
not  in  any  honour  to  the  satisfying  of  the  flesh. 

a  Mai.  i.  7.  Ye  offer  polluted  bread  upon  mine  altar ;  and  ye  say, 
Wherein  have  we  polluted  thee  ?  in  that  ye  say,  The  table  of  the 
Lord  is  contemptible,  v.  8.  And  if  ye  offer  the  blind  for  sacrifice, 
is  it  not  evil  ?  and  if  ye  offer  the  lame  and  sick,  is  it  not  evil  ?  offer 
it  now  unto  thy  governor,  will  he  be  pleased  with  thee,  or  accept  thy 
person  ?  saith  the  Lord  of  hosts,    v.  14.  But  cursed  be  the  deceiver, 


280  'The  Larger  Catechism. 

adding  to  it,  or  taking  from  it,o  whether  invented 
and  taken  up  of  ourselves,/)  or  received  by  tra- 
dition from  others,  q  though  under  the  title  of  an- 
tiquity,;- custom, j  devotion,/  good  intent,  or  any 
other   pretence  whatsoever  ;v    simony  ;w    sacri- 

which  liathin  his  flock  a  male,  and  voweth  and  sacrifictth  unto  the 
Lord  a  corrupt  thing :  for  lama  great  King,  suitn  the  Lord  of  bests, 
and  my  name  is  dreadful  among  the  Heathen. 

o  Deut.  iv.  2.  Ye  shall  not  add  unto  the  word  which  I  command 
you,  neither  shall  ye  diminish  ought  from  it,  that  ye  may  keep  the 
commandments  of  the  Lord  your  God  which  I  command  you. 

p  Psal.  cvi.  39.  Thus  were  they  defiled  with  their  own  works,  and 
went  awhoring  with  their  own  inventions. 

q  Mat.  xv.  9.  But  in  vain  they  do  worship  me,  teaching  for  doc- 
trines the  commandments  of  men. 

r  1  Peter  i.  18.  Forasmuch  as  ye  know  that  ye  were  not  re- 
deemed with  corruptible  things,  as  silver  and  gold,  from  your  vain 
conversation  received  by  tradition  from  your  fathers. 

s  Jer.  xliv.  17.  But  we  will  certainly  do  whatsoever  thing  goeth 
forth  out  oi  our  own  mouth,  to  burn  incense  unto  the  queen  of  hea- 
ven, and  to  pour  out  drink-offeiings  unto  her,  as  we  have  done,  we 
and  our  fathers,  our  kings  and  uur  princes,  in  the  cities  of  Judah, 
and  in  the  streets  of  Jerusalem:  for  then  had  we  plenty  of  victuals, 
and  were  well,  and  saw  no  evil. 

/  La.  lxv.  3.  A  people  that  provoketh  me  to  anger  continually  to 
my  face,  that  sacrificeth  in  gardens,  and  burnetii  incense  upon  altars 
of  brick:  v.  4.  Which  remain  among  the  graves,  and  lodge  in  the 
monuments,  which  eat  swine's  ticsh,  and  bioih  of  abominable  things 
is  in  their  vessels :  v.  5.  Which  say,  Stand  by  thyself,  come  not  near 
to  me,  for  I  am  holier  than  thou  :  these  are  a  smoke  in  my  nose,  a 
fire  that  burnetii  all  the  day.  Gal.  i.  13.  For  ye  have  heard  of  my 
conversation  in  time  past,  in  the  Jews  religion,  how  that  beyond 
measure  I  persecuted  the  church  ot  God,  and  wasted  it:  v.  14.  And 
profited  in  the  Jews  religion  above  many  my  equals  in  mine  own 
nation,  being  more  exceedingly  zealous  of  the  traditions  of  my  fathers. 

■v  1  bam.  xiii.  11.  And  Samuel  said,  What  hast  thou  done?  And 
id,  Because  I  saw  that  the  people  were  scattered  from  me,  and 
i hat  thou  earnest  not  within  the  days  appointed,  and  that  the-  Philis- 
tines gathered  themselves  together  to  Michmash :  \.  12.  Therefore 
said  I,  The  Philistines  will  come  down  now  upon  me  to  Giigal,  and 
not  made  supplication  unto  the  Lord:  1  forced  myself  there- 
fore, and  offered  a  burnt-offering.  1  Sam.  xv.  21.  But  the  people, 
(said  Saul)  took  of  the  spoil,  sheep  and  oxen,  the  I  hiel  ol  the  things 
which  should  have  been  utterly  destroyed,  to  sacrifice  unto  the  Lord 
thy  God  in  Gilga!. 

w  Aft-  viii.  18.  And  when  Simon  saw  iliat  through  laving  on  of 


cThe  Larger  Catechism.  281 


6 


lege  ix  all  negle6l,j/  contempt,*  hindering,**  and 
opposing  the  worship  and  ordinances  which  God 
hath  appointed. £ 

Q.   no.  What  are  the  reasons  annexed  to  the  se- 
cond commandment,  the  more  to  enforce  it? 

A.  The  reasons  annexed  to  the  second  com- 
mandment, the  more  to  enforce  it,  contained  in 
these  words,  For  I  the  Lord  thy  God  am  a  jealous 
God,  visiting  the  iniquity  of  the  fathers  upon  the 
children  unto  the  third  and  fourth  generation  of  them 
that  hate  me:  and  shewing  mercy  unto  thousands  of 
them  that  love  me,  and  keep  my  commandments  ;c 

the  apostles'  hands,  the  Holy  Ghost  was  given,  he  offered  them 
money. 

x  Rom.  ii.  22.  Thou  that  abhorrest  idols,  dost  thou  commit  sacri- 
lege ?  Mai.  iii.  8.  Will  a  man  rob  God  ?  yet  ye  have  robbed  me : 
but  ye  say,  Wherein  have  we  robbed  thee?   In  tithes  and  offerings. 

_^Exod.  iv.  24.  And  it  came  to  pass  by  the  way  in  the  inn,  that 
the  Lord  met  him,  and  sought  to  kill  him.  v.  25.  Then  Zipporah, 
took  a  sharp  stone,  and  cut  off  the  fore-skin  of  her  son,  and  cast  it  at 
his  feet,  and  said,  Surely  a  bloody  husband  art  thou  to  inc.  v.  26.  So 
he  let  him  go:  then  she  said,  A  bloody  husband  thou  art,  because  of 
the  circumcision. 

..  z  Mat.  xxii.  5.  But  they  made  light  of  it,  and  went  their  ways, 
one  to  his  farm,  another  to  his  merchandize.  Mai.  i.  7.  Ye  offer 
polluted  bread  upon  mine  altar;  and  ye  say,  Wherein  have  we  pol- 
luted thee  ?  In  that  ye  say,  The  table  of  the  Lord  is  contemptible. 
v.  13.  Ye  said  also,  Behold,  what  a  weariness  is  it,  and  ye  have  snuf- 
fed at  it,  saith  the  Lord  of  hosts;  and  ye  brought  that  which  was  torn, 
and  the  lame,  and  the  sick;  thus  ye  brought  an  offering:  should  I 
accept  this  of  your  hands  ?  saith  the  Lord. 

a  Mat.  xxiii.  13.  But  wo  unto  you,  Scribes  and  Pharisees,  hypo- 
crites ;  for  ye  shut  up  the  kingdom  of  heaven  against  men  ;  for  ye  nei- 
ther go  in  yourselves,  neither  suffer  ye  them  that  are  enteringto  go  in. 

b  A6ts  xiii.  44.  And  the  next  Sabbath-day  came  almost  the  whole 
city  together  to  hear  the  word  of  God.  v.  45.  But  when  the  Jews 
saw  the  multitudes,  they  were  filled  with  envy,  and  spake  against 
those  things  which  were  spoken  by  Paul,  contradicting  and  blas- 
pheming. 1  Thess.  ii.  15.  Who  both  killed  the  Lord  Jesus,  and  their 
own  prophets,  and  have  persecuted  us  ;  and  they  please  not  God,  and 
are  contrary  to  all  men  :  v.  16.  Forbidding  us  to  speak  to  the  Gen- 
tiles, that  they  might  be  saved,  to  fill  up  their  sins  al  way ;  for  the 
wrath  is  come  upon  them  to  the  uttermost. 

no.  c  Exod.  xx.  5,  6. 


-282  tfhe  Larger  Catechism. 

are,  beside  God's  sovereignty  over  us,  and  pro* 
priety  in  us,;/  his  fervent  zeal  for  his  own  \vor~ 
ship,^  and  his  revengeful  indignation  against  all- 
false   worship,  as  being  a  spiritual  whoredom^ 

d  Psal.  xlv.  11.  So  shall  the  King  greatly  desire  thy  beauty:  for 
he  is  thy  Lord,  and  worship  thou  him.  Rev.  xv.  3.  And  they  sing 
the  song  of  Moses  the  servant  of  God,  and  the  song  of  the  Lamb, 
saying,  Great  and  marvellous  are  thy  works,  Lord  God  Almighty; 
just  and  true  are  thy  ways,  thou  King  of  saints,  v.  4.  Who  shall 
not  fear  thee,  O  Lord,  and  glorify  thy  name  ?  for  thou  only  art  holy  • 
for  all  nations  shall  come  and  worship  before  thee;  for  thy  judg- 
ments are  made  manifest. 

e  Exod.  xxxiv.  13.  But  ye  shall  destroy  their  altars,  break  their 
images,  and  cut  down  their  groves,  v.  14.  For  thou  shalt  worship  no 
other  god:  for  the  Lord,  whose  name  is  Jealous,  is  a  jealous  God. 

f  1  Cor.  x.  20.  But  I  say,  that  the  things  which  the  Gentiles  sa- 
crifice, they  sacrifice  to  devils  and  not  to  God  :  and  I  would  not  that 
ye  should  have  fellowship  with  devils,  v.  21.  Ye  cannot  drink  the 
cup  of  the  Lord,  and  the  cup  of  devils :  ye  cannot  be  partakers  of 
the  Lord's  table,  and  of  the  table  of  devils,  v.  22.  Do  we  provoke 
the  Lord  to  jealousy?  are  we  stronger  than  he?  Jer.  vii.  18.'  The 
children  gather  wood,  and  the  fathers  kindle  the  fire,  and  the  wo- 
men knead  their  dough,  to  make  cakes  to  the  queen  of  heaven,  and 
to  pour  out  drink-offerings  unto  other  gods,  that  they  may  provoke 
me  to  anger,  v.  19.  Do  they  provoke  me  to  anger  ?  saith  the  Lord  : 
do  they  not  provoke  themselves  to  the  confusion  of  their  own  faces? 
v.  20.  Therefore,  thus  saith  the  Lord  God,  Behold  mine  anger  and 
my  fury  shall  be  pourf-d  out  upon  this  place,  upon  man  and  upon 
beast,  and  upon  the  trees  of  the  field,  and  upon  the  fruit  of  the  ground, 
and  it  shall  burn,  and  shall  not  be  quenched.  Ezek.  xvi.  26.  Thou 
hast  also  committed  fornication  with  the  Egyptians  thy  neighbours, 
great  of  flesh,  and  hast  increased  thy  whoredoms,  to  provoke  me  to 
anger,  v.  27.  Behold,  therefore,  I  have  stretched  out  my  hand  over 
thee,  and  have  diminished  thine  ordinary  food,  and  delivered  thee 
unto  the  will  of  them  that  hate  thee,  the  daughters  of  the  Philistines, 
which  are  ashamed  of  thy  lewd  way.  Deut.  xxxii.  16.  They  pro- 
voked him  to  jealousy  with  strange  gods,  with  abominations  pro- 
voked they  him  to  anger,  v.  17.  They  sacrificed  unto  devils,  not 
to  God ;  to  gods  whom  they  knew  not,  to  new  gods  that  came  newly 
up,  whom  your  fathers  feared  not.  v.  18.  Of  the  Rock  that  begat 
thee  thou  art  unmindful,  and  hast  forgotten  God  that  formed  thee. 
v.  19.  And  when  the  Lord  saw  it,  he  abhorred  them,  because  of  the 
provoking  of  his  sons,  and  of  his  daughters,  v.  20.  And  he  said, 
I  will  hide  my  face  from  them,  1  will  see  what  their  end  shall  be  : 
for  they  are  a  very  Iroward  generation,  children  in  whom  is  no 
faith. 


The  Larger  Catechism.  283 

■accounting:  the  breakers  of  this  commandment 
such  as  hate  him:  and  threatening  to  punish  them 
unto  divers  generations  ;g  and  esteeming  the  ob- 
servers of  it  such  as  love  him  and  keep  his  com- 
mandments, and  promising  mercy  to  them  unto 
many  generations.^ 

Q.   111.  Which  is  the  third  commandment  ? 

A.  The  third  commandment  is,  'Thou  shalt  not 
take  the  name  of  the  Lord  thy  God  in  vain :  for  the 
Lord  will  not  hold  him  guiltless  that  taketh  his  name 
in  vain.i 

Q^  112.  What  is  required  in  the  third  command- 
ment P 

A.  The  third  commandment  requires,  That  the 
name  of  God,  his  titles,  attributes,^  ordinances,/ 


g  Hos.  ii.  2.  Plead  with  your  mother,  plead :  for  she  is  not  my 
wife,  neither  am  I  her  husband :  let  her  therefore  put  away  her 
whoredoms  out  of  her  sight,  and  her  adulteries  from  between  her 
breasts;  v.  3.  Lest  I  strip  her  naked,  and  set  her  as  in  the  day  that 
she  was  born,  and  make  her  as  a  wilderness,  and  set  her  like  a  dry 
laud,  and  slay  her  with  thirst,  v.  4.  And  I  will  not  have  mercy 
upon  her  children:  for  they  be  the  children  of  whoredoms. 

h  Deut.  v.  29.  O  that  there  were  such  an  heart  in  them,  that  they 
would  fear  me,  and  keep  all  my  commandments  always,  that  it  might 
be  well  with  them,  and  with  their  children  for  ever ! 

in.  i  Exod.  xx.  7. 

1 12.  £  Mat.  vi.  9.  After  this  manner  therefore  pray  ye  :  Our  Fa- 
ther which  art  in  heaven,  Hallowed  be  thy  name.  Deut.  xxviii. 
58.  If  thou  wilt  not  observe  to  do  all  the  words  of  this  law,  that  are 
written  in  this  book,  that  thou  mavest  fear  this  glorious  and  fearful 
name,  THE  LORD  THY  GOD.  Psal.  xxix.  2.  Give  unto  the 
Lord  the  glory  due  unto  his  name,  worship  the  Lord  in  the  beauty 
of  holiness.  Psal.  Ixviii.  4.  Sing  unto  God,  sing  praises  to  his  name  : 
extol  him  that  rideth  upon  the  heavens  by  his  name  JAH,  and  re- 
joice before  him.     Rev.  xv.  3,  4.     (See  above  in  d.) 

I  Mai.  i.  14.  But  cursed  be  the  deceiver,  which  hath  in  his 
flock  a  male,  and  voweth  and  sacrificeth  unto  the  Lord  a- corrupt 
thing:  for  I  am  a  great  King,  saith  the  Lord  of  hosts,  and  my  name 
is  dreadful  among  the  heathen.  Eccl.  v.  1.  Keep  thy  foot  when 
thou  goest  to  the  house  of  God,  and  be  more  ready  to  hear,*  than  to 
give  the  sacrifice  of  fools :  for  they  consider  not  that  they  do  evil, 


284  ^fhe  "Larger  Catechism. 

the  word,?;z  sacraments, n  prayer,o  oaths,/>  vows,tf 
lots,r  his  works,*  and  whatsoever  else  there  is 
whereby  he  makes  himself  known,  be  holily  and 
reverently  used  in  thought,/  meditation,?;  word, 

m  Psal.  exxxviii.  2.  I  will  worship  towards  thy  holy  temple,  and 
praise  thy  name,  for  thy  loving-kindness,  and  for  thy  truth  :  for  thou 
hast  magnified  thy  word  above  all  thy  name. 

n  1  Cor.  xi.  24.  And  when  he  had  given  thanks,  he  brake  it,  and 
said,  Take,  eat;  this  is  my  body,  which  is  broken  for  you  :  this  do 
in  remembrance  of  me.  v.  25.  After  the  same  manner  also  he  took 
the  cup,  when  he  had  supped,  saying,  This  cup  is  the  New  Testa- 
ment in  my  blood :  this  do  ye,  as  oft  as  you  drink  it,  in  remem^ 
brance  of  me.  v.  28.  But  let  a  man  examine  himself,  and  so  let 
liim  eat  of  that  bread,  and  drink  of  that  cup.  v.  29.  For  he  that 
eateth  and  drinketh  unworthily,  eateth  and  drinketh  damnation  to 
himself,  not  discerning  the  Lord's  body. 

0  1  Tim.  ii.  8.  I  \\ill  therefore  that  men  pray  every  where,  lifting 
up  holy  hands,  without  wrath  and  doubting. 

Ji  Jer.  iv.  2.  And  thou  shalt  swear,  the  Lord  liveth,  in  truth,  in 
judgment,  and  in  righteousness;  and  the  nations  shall  bless  them- 
selves in  him,  and  in  him  shall  they  glory. 

q  Eccl.  v.  2.  Be  not  rash  with  thy  mouth,  and  let  not  thine  heart 
be  hasty  to  utter  any  thing  before  God:  for  God  is  in  heaven,  and 
thou  upon  earth  :  therefore  let  thy  words  be  few.  v.  4.  When  thou 
-vowest  a  vow  unto  God,  deter  not  to  pay  it:  for  he  hath  no  plea- 
sure in  fools;  pay  that  which  thou  hast  vowed,  v.  5.  Better  is  it  that 
thuu  shouldst  not  vow,  than  that  thou  should  vow  and  not  pay.  v.  6. 
Suffer  not  thy  mouth  to  cause  thy  flesh  to  sin,  neither  say  thou  before 
the  angel,  that  it  was  an  error:  wherefore  should  God  be  angry  at 
thy  voice,  and  destroy  the  work  of  thine  hands? 

r  Acls  i.  24.  And  they  prayed,  and  said,  Thou  Lord,  which 
knovvest  the  hearts  of  all  men,  shew  whether  of  these  two  thou  ha^t 
chosen,  v.  26.  And  they  gave  forth  their  lots ;  and  the  lot  fell  upon 
Matthias,  and  he  was  numbered  with  the  eleven  apostles. 

j-  Job  xxxvi.  24.  Remember  that  thou  magnify  his  work,  which 
men  behold. 

/  Mai.  hi.  16.  Then  they  that  feared  the  Lord,  spake  often  one 
to  another,  and  the  Lord  hearkened,  and  heard  it,  and  a  book  of  re- 
membrance was  written  before  him  lor  them  that  feared  the  Lord, 
and  that  thought  upon  his  name. 

v  Psal.  viii.  throughout,  v.  j.  O  Lord  our  Lord,  how  excellent  is 
thy  name  in  all  the  earth!  who  hast  set  thy  glory  above  the  heaven .-.. 
v.  3.  When  I  consider  thy  heavens,  the  work  of  thy  fingers,  the 
moon  and  the  stars,  which  thou  hast  ordained;  v.  4.  What  is  nun 
that  thcu  art  mindful  of  him?  v.  g.  O  Lord  our  Lord,  how  excel- 
lent is  thy  name  in  all  the  earth ! 


tfhe  Larger  Catechism.  285 

serand  writing  ;x  by  an  holy  profession,)/  and  an- 
swerable conversation, s  to  the  glory  of  God,#  and 
the  good  of  ourselves,^  and  others. c 

Q.  1 .1 3.  What  are  the  sins  forbidden  in  the  third 
commandment  f 

A.  The  sins  forbidden  in  the  third  command- 
ment are,  the  not  using  of  God's  name  as  is  re- 
quired ;dand  the  abuse  of  it  in  an  ignorant,*  vain^ 


to  Col.  Hi.  1 7.  And  whatsoever  ye  do  in  word  or  deed,  do  all  in 
the  name  of  the  Lord  Jesus,  giving  thanks  to  God  and  the  Father 
by  him.  Psal.  cv.  2.  Sing  unto  him,  sing  psalms  unto  him  ;  talk: 
ye  of  all  his  wondrous  works,  v.  5.  Remember  his  marvellous  works 
that  he  hath  done,  his  wonders  and  the  judgments  of  his  mouth. 

x  Psal.  cii.  18.  This  shall  be  written  for  the  generation  to  come : 
and  the  people  which  shall  be  created,  shall  praise  the  Lord. 

y  1  Peter  iii.  15.  But  sanctify  the  Lord  God  in  your  hearts:  and 
be  ready  always  to  give  an  answer  to  every  man  that  asketh  you  a 
reason  of  the  hope  that  is  in  you,  with  meekness  and  fear  .Mic.  iv. 
5.  For  all  people  will  walk  every  one  in  the  name  of  his  God,  and 
we  will  walk  in  the  name  of  the  Lord  our  God  for  ever  and  ever. 

z  Phil.  i.  27.  Only  let  your  conversation  be  as  it  becometh  the 
gospel  of  Christ — 

a.  1  Cor.  x.  31.  Whether  therefore  ye  eat  or  drink,  or  whatsoever 
ye  do,  do  all  to  the  glory  of  God. 

b  Jer.  xxxii.  39.  And  I  will  give  them  one  heart,  and  one  way, 
that  they  may  fear  me  for  ever,  for  the  good  of  them,  and  of  their 
children  after  them. 

c  1  Peter  ii.  12.  Having  your  conversation  honest  among  the  Gen- 
tiles: that  whereas  they  speak  against  you  as  evil-doers,  they  may  by 
your  good  works  which  they  shall  behold,  glorify  God  in  the  day  of 
visitation. 

1 1 3.  d  Mai.  ii.  2.  If  ye  will  not  hear,  and  if  ye  will  not  lay  it  to 
heart,  to  give  glory  unto  my  name,  saith  the  Lord  of  hosts,  I  will 
even  send  a  curse  upon  you,  and  I  will  curse  your  blessings:  yea,  I 
have  cursed  them  already,  because  ye  do  not  lay  it  to  heart. 

e  A6ts  wii.  23.  For  as  I  passed  by,  and  beheld  your  devotions,  I 
found  an  altar  with  this  inscription,  TO  THE  UNKNOWN 
GOD.  Whom  therefore  ye  ignorantly  worship,  him  declare  I  unto 
you. 

f  Prov.  xxx.  9.  Lest  I  be  full,  and  deny  thee,  and  say,  Who  h 
the  Lord  ?  or  le»t  I  be  poor,  and  steal,  and  take  the  name  of  my 
God  in  vain. 


286  'The  Larger  Caiechimu 

irreverent,    profane,?-   superstitious,/!;   or  wicked 
mentioning  or  otherwise  using  his  titles,  attributes, i 

g  Mai.  i.  6.  A  son  honoureth  his  father,  and  a  servant  his  master  : 
if  then  I  beafathrr,  where  is  mine  honour?  and  if  I  be  a  master, 
where  is  my  fear?  saith  the  Lord  of  hosts  unto  you,  O  priests,  that 
despise  my  name:  and  ye  say,  Wherein  have  we  despised  thy  name? 
v.  7.  Ye  offer  polluted  bread  upon  mine  altar  j  and  ye  say,  Wherein 
have  we  polluted  thee?  in  that  ye  say,  The  table  of  the  Lord  is  con- 
temptible, v.  12.  But  ye  have  profaned  it,  in  that  ye  say,  The  table 
of  the  Lord  is  polluted,  and  the  fruit  thereof,  even  his  meat  is  con- 
temptible. Mai.  iii.  14..  Ye  have  said?  It  is  vain  to  serve  God;  and 
what  profit  is  it,  that  we  have  kept  his  ordinance,  and  that  we  have 
walked  mournfully  before  the  Lord  of  hosts  ? 

//  1  Sam.  iv.  3.  And  when  the  people  were  come  into  the  camp, 
the  tldtrs  of  Israel  said,  Wherefore  hath  the  Lord  smitten  us  to-day 
before  the  Philistines?  Let  us  fetch  the  ark  of  the  covenant  of  the 
Lord  out  of  Shiloh  unto  us,  that  when  it  cometh  among  us,  it  may 
save  us  out  of  the  hand  of  our  enemies,  v.  4.  So  the  people  sent  to 
Shiloh,  that  they  might  bring  from  thence  the  ark  of  the  covenant 
of  the  Lord  of  hosts,  which  dwelleth  between  the  cherubims;  and 
the  two  sons  of  Eli,  Hophni  and  Phinehas,  were  there,  with  the  ark 
of  the  covenant  of  God.  v.  5.  And  when  the  ark  of  the  covenant  of 
the  Lord  came  into  the  camp,  all  Israel  shouted  with  a  great  shout,  so 
that  the  earth  rang  again.  Jer.  vii.  4.  'Jrust  ye  not  in  lying  word;, 
saying,  the  temple  of  the  Lord,  the  temple  ot  the  Lord,  the  temple 
of  the  Lord  are  these.*  v.  9.  Will  ye  steal,  murder,  and  commit 
adultery,  and  swear  falsely,  and  burn  incense  unto  Baal,  and  walk 
after  other  gods  whom  ye  know  not;  v.  10.  And  come  and  stand 
before  me  in  this  house,  which  is  called  by  my  name,  and  say,  We 
are  delivered  to  do  all  these  abominations?  v.  14.  Therefore  will  I 
do  unto  this  house  which  is  called  bv  my  name,  wherein  ye  trust, 
and  unto  the  place  which  I  gave  to  you,  and  your  fathers,  a  I  have 
done  to  Shiloh.  v.  31.  And  they  have  built  the  high  places  of  To- 
phet,  which  is  in  the  valley  of  the  son  of  Hinnom,  to  burn  their  sons 
and  their  daughters  in  the  fire,  which  1  commanded  them  not,  nei- 
ther came  it  into  my  heart.  Col.  ii  20.  Wherefore  if  ye  be  dead 
with  Christ  from  the  rudiments  of  the  world  ;  why,  as  though  living 
in  the  world,  are  ye  subject  to  ordinances?  v.  21.  (Touch  not,  taste 
not,  handle  not :  v.  22.  Which  all  are  to  perish  with  the  using)  af- 
ter the  commandments  and  doctrines  of  men. 

1  2  Kings  xviii.  30.  Neither  let  Heztkiah  make  you  trust  in  the 
Lord,  saying,  The  Lord  will  surely  deliver  us,  and  this  city  shall 
not  be  delivered  into  the  hands  of  the  king  of  Assyria,  v.  35.  Who 
are  they  among  all  the  gods  of  the  countries  that  have  delivered  their 
country  out  of  mine  hand,  that  the  Lord  should  deliver  Jerusalem 
out  of  mine  hand?  Exod.  v.  2.  And  Pharaoh  said,  Who  is  the  l.->rd, 
that  I  should  obey  his  voice  to  let  Israel  go  ?    I  know  not  the  Lord, 


-J  he  Larger  Catechism.  287 

ordinances,^  or  works,/  by  blasphemy, m  per- 
jury ;n  all  sinful  cursings,o  oaths,/>  vows,y  and 
lots;r  violating  of  our  oaths  and  vows,  if  law- 

neither  will  I  let  Israel  go.  Psal.  cxxxix.  20.  For  they  speak  against 
thee  wickedly,  and  thine  enemies  take  thy  name  in  vain. 

k  Psal-  1.  16.  But  unto  the  wicked  God  saith,  What  hast  thou  to 
do  to  declare  my  statutes,  or  that  thou  shouldst  take  my  covenant  in 
thy  mouth  ?  v.  1  7.  Seeing  thou  hatest  instruction,  and  castest  my 
words  behind  thee. 

/  Isa.  v.  12.  And  the  harp  and  the  viol,  the  tabret  and  pipe,  and 
wine  are  in  their  feasts:  but  they  regard  not  the  work  of  the  Lord, 
neither  consider  the  operation  or  his  hands. 

m  2  Kings  xix.  22.  Whom  hast  thou  reproached  and  blasphemed? 
and  against  whom  hast  thou  exalted  thy  voice,  and  lift  up  thine  eyes 
on  high  ?  even  against  the  holy  one  of  Israel.  Lev.  xxiv.  1 1.  And 
the  Israelitish  woman's  son  blasphemed  the  name  of  the  Lord,  and 
cursed:  and  they  brought  him  unto  Moses. 

n  Zech.  v.  4.  I  will  bring  it  forth,  said  the  Lord  of  hosts,  and  it 
shall  enter  into  the  house  ot  the  thief,  and  into  the  house  of  him  that 
sweareth  falsely  by  my  name:  and  it  shall  remain  in  the  midst  of  his 
house,  and  shall  consume  it,  with  the  timber  thereof,  and  the  stones 
thereof.  Zee.  viii.  1  7.  And  let  none  of  you  imagine  evil  in  your 
hearts  against  his  neighbour,  and  love  no  false  oath :  for  all  these  arc 
things  that  I  hate,  saith  the  Lord. 

0  1  Sam.  xvii.  43.  And  the  Philistine  said  unto  David,  Am  I  a 
dog,  that  thou  comest  to  me  with  staves?  and  the  Philistine  cursed 
David  by  his  gods.  2  Sam.  xvi.  5.  And  when  king  David  came  to 
Bahurim,  behold,  thence  came  out  a  man  of  the  family  of  the  house 
of  Saul,  whose  name  was  Shimei  the  son  of  Gerar;  he  came  forth, 
and  cursed  still  as  he  came. 

Ji  Jer.  v.  7.  How  shall  I  pardon  thee  for  this?  thy  children  have 
forsaken  me,  and  sworn  by  them  that  are  no  gods;  when  I  had  fed 
them  to  the  full,  they  then  committed  adultery,  and  assembled  them- 
selves by  troops  in  the  harlots'  houses.  Jer.  xxiii.  10.  For  the  land 
is  full  of  adulteries,  for  because  of  swearing  the  land  mourneth;  the 
pleasant  places  of  the  wilderness  are  dried  up,  and  their  course  is 
evil,  and  their  force  is  not  right. 

q  Deut.  xxii.  18.  Thou  shalt  not  bring  the  hire  of  a  whore,  or 
the  price  of  a  dog  into  the  house  of  the  Lord  thy  God  for  anv  vow  s 
for  even  both  these  are  abomination  unto  the  Lord  thy  God.  A6ts  xxii. 
ia.  And  when  it  was  day,  certain  of  the  Jews  banded  together,  and 
bound  themselves  under  a  curse,  saying,  That  they  wouid  neither  eat 
nor  drink  till  they  had  killed  Paul.  v.  14.  And  they  came  to  the 
chief  priests  and  elders,  and  said,  We  have  bound  ourselves  under 
a  great  curse,  that  we  will  eat  nothing  until  we  have  slain  Paul. 

r  Esth.  iii.  7.  In  the  first  month  (that  is,  the  month  Nisan)  in 
the  twelfth  year  of  King  Ahasuerus,  they  cast  Pur,  that  is,  the  lot 


288  The  Larger  Catechism. 

ful,j-  and  fulfilling  them,  if  of  things  unlawful;/ 
murmuring  and  quarrelling  at,i;  curious  prying 
into,w  and  misapplying  of  God's  decrees,*  and 

before  Haman,  from  day  to  day,  and  from  month  to  month,  to  the 
twelfth  month,  that  is  the  month  Adar.  Esth.  ix.  24.  Because  Ha- 
man the  son  of  Hamedatha  the  Agagite,  the  enemy  of  all  the  Jews, 
had  devised  against  the  Jews  to  destroy  them,  and  had  cast  Pur  (that 
is,  the  lot)  to  consume  them,  and  to  destroy  them.  Psal.  xxii.  18. 
They  part  my  garments  among  them,  and  cast  lots  upon  my  vesture. 

s  Psal.  xxiv.  4.  He  that  hath  clean  hands,  and  a  pure  heart:  who 
hath  not  lift  up  his  soul  unto  vanity,  nor  sworn  deceitfully.  Ezek. 
xvii.  16.  As  Hive,  saith  the  Lord  God,  surely  in  the  place  where  the 
king  dweileth  that  made  him  king,  whose  oath  he  despised;  and 
whose  covenant  he  brake,  even  with  him,  in  the  midst  of  Babylon 
he  shall  die.  v.  18.  Seeing  he  despised  the  oath  by  breaking  the 
covenant  (when  lo,  he  had  given  his  hand),  and  hath  done  all  these 
things,  he  shall  not  escape,  v.  19.  Therefore  thus  saith  the  Lord  God, 
As  I  live,  surely  mine  oath  that  he  hath  despised,  and  my  covenant 
that  he  hath  broken,  even  it  will  I  recompense  upon  his  own  head. 

/  Mark,  vi.26.  And  the  king  was  exceeding  sorry,  yet  for  his 
oath's  sake,  and  for  their  sakes  which  sat  with  him,  he  would  not 
reject  her.  1  Sam.  xxv.  22.  So  and  more  also  do  God  unto  the 
enemies  of  David,  if  I  leave  of  all  that  pertain  to  him,  by  the  morn- 
ing-light, any  that  pisseth  against  the  wall.  v.  32.  And  David  said 
to  Abigail,  Blessed  be  the  Lord  God  of  Israel,  which  sent  thee  this 
day  to  meet  me :  v.  33.  And  blessed  be  thy  advice,  and  blessed  be 
thou,  which  hast  kept  me  this  day,  from  coming  to  shed  blood,  and 
from  avenging  myself  with  mine  own  hand.  v.  34.  For  in  very 
deed,  as  the  Lord  God  of  Israel  liveth,  which  hath  kept  me  back 
from  hurting  thee.,  except  thou  hadst  hasted  and  come  to  meet  me, 
surely  there  had  not  been  left  unto  Nabal,  by  the  morning-light,  any 
that  pisseth  against  the  wall. 

v  Rom.  ix.  14.  What  shall  we  say  then?  Is  there  unrighteous- 
ness with  God?  God  forbid,  v.  19.  Thou  wilt  say  then  unto  me, 
Why  doth  ye  yet  find  fault?  for  who  hath  resisted  his  will?  v.  20. 
Nay,  but  O  man,  who  art  thou  that  repliest  against  God?  shall  the 
thing  formed  say  to  him  that  formed  it,  Why  hast  thou  made  me 
thus? 

id  Deut.  xxix.  29.  The  secret  things  belong  unto  the  Lord  our 
God:  But  those  things  which  are  revealed,  belong  unto  us,  and  to 
our  children  for  ever,  that  we  may  do  •  "  the  words  of  this  law. 

x  Rom.  Hi.  5.  But  if  our  unrighteous.,  ss  commend  the  righteous- 
ness of  God,  what  shaJJ  we  say  ?  Is  God  unrighteous  who  taketh 
vengc  nee?  (f  speak  as  a  man.)  v.  7.  For  it  the  truth  ol  God  hath 
more  abounded  through  my  lie  unto  his  gloi\  ;  why  yet  am  I  also 
judged  as  a  sinner?  Rom.  vi.  1.  What  shall  we  saj  then?  shall  we 
continue  in  iin,  that  grace  may  abound?  God  forbid. 


Yfie  Larger  CatecbisfA  z$g 

providences  ;y  misinterpreting,^  misapplying  or 
any  way  perverting  the  word,  or  any  part  of  it,£  to 
profane  jests,*:  curious  or  unprofitable  questions, 
vain  janglings,  or  the  maintaining  of  false  doc- 
trines;^/ abusing  it,  the  creatures,  or  any  thin°* 

y  Eccl.  viii.  n.  Because  sentence  against  an  evil  work  is  not  ex- 
ecuted speedily;  therefore  the  heart  of  the  sons  of  men  is  fully  set  iri 
them  to  do  evil.  Eccl.  ix.  3.  This  is  an  evil  among  all  things  that  are 
done  under  the  sun,  that  there  is  one  event  unto  all :  yea,  also  the  heart 
of  the  sons  of  men  is  full  of  evil,  and  madness  is  in  their  heart 
while  they  live,  and  after  that  they  go  to  the  dead.  Psal.  xxxix. 
throughout.  I  said  I  will  take  heed  to  my  ways,  that  I  sin  not 
with  my  tongue. —  '         , 

x  Mat.  v.  jzi.  To  the  end.     (See  Question  99,  letter  0.) 
.  a  Ezek,  xiii.  22.  Because  with  lies  ye  have  made  the  heart  of  the 
righteous  sad,  whom  I  have  not  made  sad,-  and   strengthened  the 
hands  ot  the  wicked,  that  he  should  not  return  from  his  wicked  wav. 
by  promising  him  life. 

b  2  Peter  iii.  16.  As  also  in  all  his  epistles,  speaking  in  them  df 
those  things :  in  which  are  some  things  hard  to  be  understood,  which 
they  that  are  unlearned  and  unstable  wrest,  as  they  do  also  the  other 
scriptures,  unto  their  own  destruction.  Mat.  xxii.  24  to  the  31, 
Saying,  Master,  Moses  said,  Ifamandie  having  no  children,  hh 
brother  shall  marry  his  wife,  and  raise  up  seed  unto  his  brother,  v. 
25.  Now  there  were  with  us  seven  brethren,  and  the  first— v.  28., 
Therefore  in  the  resurrection,  whose  wife  shall  she  be  of  the  seven  > 
for  they  all  had  her.  v.  29.  Jesus  answered  and  said  unto  them,  Ye 
do  err,  not  knowing  the  scriptures,  nor  the  power  of  God.  v.  -o. 
For  in  the  resurrection — 

c  Isa.  xxii.  13.  And  behold,  joy  and  gladness,  slaying  oxen,  and 
killing  sheep,  eating  flesh  and  drinking  wine;  let  us  eat  and  drink, 
for  to-morrow  we  shall  die.  Jer.  xxiii,  34.  And  as  for  the  prophet, 
and  the  priest,  and  the  people  that  shall  say,  The  burden  of  the 
Lord,  I  will  even  punish  that  man  and  his  house,  v.  36.  And  the 
burden  of  the  Lord  shall  ye  mention  no  more;  for  every  man's  word 
shall  be  his  burden:  for  ye  have  perverted  the  words  of  the  living 
God,  of  the  Lord  of  hosts  our  God.  v.  38.  But  since  ye  say,  The 
burden  of  the  Lord;  therefore  thus  saith  the  Lord,  Because  v0U  say 
this  word,  The  burden  of  the  Lord,  and  I  have  sent  unto  vou,  sav- 
ing, Ye  shall  not  say  the  burden  of  the  Lord. 

m  d  1  Tim.  i.  4.  Neither  give  heed  to  fables,  and  endless  genealo- 
gies which  minister  questions,  rather  than  godlv  edifying,  which 
v.  m  faith:  (so do.)  v.  6.  From  which  (faith)  some  having  swerved, 
nave  fumed  aside  unto  vain  jangling;  v.  7.  Desiring  to  be  teacher* 

z  O 


290  The  Larger  Catechism. 

contained  under  the  name  of  God,  to  charms,*5  or 
sinful  lusts  and  practices  yf  the  maligning,^  scorn* 

of  the  law,  understanding  neither  what  they  say,  nor  whereof  they 
affirm.  1  Tim.  vi.  4.  He  is  proud,  knowing  nothing,  but  doating 
about  questions  and  strifes  of  words,  whereof  cometh  envy,  strife, 
railings,  evil  surmisings,  v.  5.  Perverse  disputings  of  men  of  cor- 
rupt minds,  and  destitute  of  the  truth,  supposing  that  gain  is  godli- 
ness: from  such  withdraw  thyself,  v.  20.  O  Timothy,  keep  that 
which  is  committed  to  thy  trust,  avoiding  profane  and  vain  babblings, 
and  oppositions  of  science  falsely  so  called.  2  Tim.  ii.  14.  Of 
these  things  put  them  in  remembrance,  charging  them  before  the 
Lord,  that  they  strive  not  about  words  to  no  profit,  but  to  the  sub- 
verting of  the  hearers.  Tit.  iii.  9.  But  avoid  foolish  questions,  and 
genealogies,  and  contentions  and  strivings  about  the  law ;  for  they 
are  unprofitable  and  vain. 

e  Deut.  xviii.  10 — 14.  There  shall  not  be  found  among  you  any 
one  that  maketh  his  son  or  his  daughter  to  pass  through  the  fire,  or 
that  useth  divination,  or  an  observer  of  times,  or  an  enchanter,  or 
a  witch,  v.  1  r.  Or  a  charmer,  or  a  consulter  with  familiar  spirits,  or 
a  wizard,  or  a  necromancer,  v.  12.  For  all  that  do  these  things  are 
an  abomination  unto  the  Lord,  &c.  Acts  xix.  13.  Then  certain 
of  the  vagabond  Jews,  exorcists,  took  upon  them  to  call  over  them 
which  had  evil  spirits,  the  name  of  the  Lord  Jesus,  saying,  We  ad- 
jure you  by  Jesus  whom  Paul  preacheth. 

f  2  Tim.  iv.  3.  For  the  time  will  come  when  they  will  not  en- 
dure sound  doctrine;  but  after  their  own  lusts  shall  they  heap  to 
themselves  teachers,  having  itching  ears.  v.  4.  And  they' shall  turn 
away  their  ears  from  the  truth,  and  shall  be  turned  unto  fables. 
Rom.  xiii.  13.  Let  us  walk  honestly  as  in  the  dayj  not  in  rioting 
and  drunkenness,  not  in  chambering  and  wantonness,  not  in  strife 
and  envying,  v.  14.  But  put  ye  on  the  Lord  Jesus  Christ,  and 
make  not  provision  lor  the  flesh,  to  fulfil  the  lusts  thereof.  1  Kings 
xxi.  9.  And  she  wrote  in  the  letters,  saying,  Proclaim  a  fast,  and  set 
Naboth  on  high  among  the  people:  v.  10.  And  ^et  two  men,  sons 
of  Belial,  before  him,  to  bear  witness  against  him,  saying^  Thou 
didst  blaspheme  God  and  the  king:  and  then  carry  him  out,  and 
stone  him  that  he  may  die.  Jude  v.  4.  For  there  are  certain  nun 
crept  in  unawares,  who  were  before  of  old  ordained  to  this  con- 
demnation, ungodly  men,  turning  the  grace  of  our  God  into  lastivi- 
ousness,  and  denying  the  only  Lord  God,  and  our  Lord  Jesus  Christ. 

g  Ads  xiii.  45.  But  when  the  Jews  saw  the  multitudes,  they  were 
filled  with  envy,  and  spake  against  those  things  which  were  spoken 
by  Paul,  contradicting  and  blaspheming.  1  John  iii.  12.  Not  as 
Cain,  who  was  of  that  wicked  one  and  slew  his  brother:  and  where- 
fore slew  he  him?  Because  his  own  works  were  evil,  ami  hi*  bro- 
ther's righteous. 


T/je  Larger  Catechism.  291 

ing,£  reviling,/  or  any  wise  opposing  of  God's 
truth,  grace,  and  ways;^  making  profession  of 
religion  in  hypocrisy,  or  for  sinister  ends ;/  beino- 

//  Psal.  i.  1.  Blessed  is  the  man  that  walketh  not  in  the  counsel  of 
the  ungodly,  nor  standeth  in  the  way  of  sinners,  nor  sitteth  in  the 
seat  of  the  scornful,  2  Pet.  iii.  3.  Knowing  this  first,  that  there 
shall  come  in  the  last  days  scoffers,  walking  after  their  own  lusts. 

i  1  Peter  iv.  4.  Wherein  they  think  it  strange  that  you  run  not 
with  them  to  the  same  excess  of  riot,  speaking  evil  of  you. 

k  ^  A6b  xiii.  45.  But  when  the  Jews  saw  the  multitudes,  they  were 
filled  with  envy,  and  spake  against  those  things  which  were  spoken 
by  Paul,  contradicting  and  blaspheming,  v.  46.  Then  Paul  and 
Barnabas  waxed  bold,  and  said,  It  was  necessary  that  the  word  of  God 
should  first  have  been  spoken  to  you  :  but  seeing  ye  put  it  from  you, 
and  judge  yourselves  unworthy  of  everlasting  life,  lo,  we  turn  to  the 
Gentiles,  v.  50.  But  the  Jews  stirred  up  the  devout  and  honoura- 
blewomen,  and  the  chief  men  of  the  city,  and  raised  persecution 
against  Paul  and  Barnabas,  and  expelled  them  out  of  their  coasts. 
Acls  iv.  18.  And  they  called  them,  and  commanded  them  not  to 
speak  at  all,  nor  teach  in  the  name  of  Jesus.  A&s  xix.  9.  But  when 
divers  were  hardened,  and  believed  not,  but  spake  evil  of  that  way 
before  the  multitude,  he  departed  from  them,  and  separated  the  dis- 
ciples, disputing  daily  in  the  school  of  one  Tyrannus.  1  Thess.  ii. 
16.  Forbidding  us  to  speak  to  the  Gentiles,  that  they  might  be  saved* 
to  fill  up  their  sins  alway  :  for  the  wrath  is  come  upon°them  to  the 
uttermost.  Heb.  x.  29.  Of  how  much  sorer  punishment,  suppose 
ye,  shall  he  be  thought  worthy,  who  hath  trodden  under  foot  the  Son 
of  God,  and  hath  counted  the  blood  of  the  covenant  wherewith  he 
was  sanclified,  an  unholy  thing,  and  hath  done  despite  unto  the  Spirit 
of  grace  ? 

/  2  Tim.  iii.  5.  Having  a  form  of  godliness,  but  denying  the  power 
thereof;  from  such  turn  away.  Mat.  xxiii.  14.  Wo  unto  vou,  scribes 
and  Pharisees,  hypocrites;  for  ye  devour  widows'  houses,  and  for  a 
pretence  make  long  prayers ;  therefore  ye  shall  receive  the  greater 
damnation.  Mat.  vi.  1.  Take  heed  that  ye  do  not  your  alms  before 
men,  to  be  seen  of  them;  otherwise  ye  have  no  reward  of  your  Fa- 
ther which  is  in  heaven,  v.  2.  Therefore,  when  thou  doest  thine 
alms,  do  not  sound  a  trumpet  before  thee,  as  the  hypocrites  do,  in 
the  synagogues,  and  in  the  streets,  that  they  may  have  glory  of  men. 
Verily  I  say  unto  you,  they  have  their  reward,  v.  5.  And  when 
thou  prayest,  thou  shalt  not  be  as  the  hypocrites  are:  for  they  love 
to  pray  standing  in  the  synagogues,  and'in  the  corners  of  the  streets 
that  they  may  be  seen  of  men.  Verily  I  say  unto  you  they  have  their 
reward,  v.  16.  Moreover,  when  ye  fast,  be  not  as  the  hypocrites, 
of  a  sad  countenance:  for  they  disfigure  their  faces,  that  they  may 
appear  unto  men  to  fast.  Verily  I  sav  unto  vou.  thev  have  their 
reward. 


292  cLhe  Larger  Catechism. 

ashamed  of  it,/w  or  a  shame  to  it,  by  uncomfort- 
able,#  unwise,o  unfruitful,^  and  offensive  walk- 
ing,^ or  backsliding  from  it.r 

Q^  114.  IVhat  reasons  are  annexed  to  the  third 
commandment  ? 

A.  The  reasons  annexed  to  the  third  com- 
mandment, in  these  words,  [The  Lord  thy  God,] 
and  \For  the  Lord  will  not  hold  him  guiltless  that 
iaketh  his  name  in  roain,s\  are,  because  he  is  the 
Lord  and  our  God,  therefore  his  name  is  not  to  be 


m  Mark  viii.  38.  Whosoever,  therefore,  shall  be  ashamed  of  me, 
and  or  mv  words,  in  tliis  adulterous  and  sinful  generation,  of  him 
also  shall  the  Son  of  man  be  ashamed,  when  he  cometh  in  the  "lory 
or  hi-  Father  with  the  holy  angels. 

n  P.sai.  lxxiii.  14.  For  all  the  day  long  have  I  been  plagued,  and 
chastened  every  morning,  v.  1  5.  If  I  say,  I  will  speak,  thus :  behold, 
i  should  offend  against  the  generation  of  thy  children. 

0  1  Cor.  vi.  5.  I  speak  to  your  shame.  Is  it  so  that  there  is  not 
a  wise  man  amongst  you  ?  no  not  one  that  shall  be  able  to  judge  be- 
tween his  brethren  ?  v.  6.  But  brother  goeth  to  law  with  brother, 
and  that  before  the  unbelievers.  Eph.  v.  1  5.  See  then  that  ye  walk 
circumspectly,  not  as  fools,  but  as  wise,  v.  16.  Redeeming  the  time, 
because  the  days  are  evil.  v.  1  7.  Wherefore  be  ye  not  unwise,  but 
understanding  what  the  will  of  the  Lord  is. 

ft  Isa.  v.  4.  What  could  have  been  done  more  to  my  vineyard, 
that  I  have  not  done  in  it?  Wherefore,  when  I  looked  that  it  should 
bring  forth  grapes,  brought  it  lurch  wild  grapes?  2  Peter  i.  8.  For 
il  tbest  things  be  in  you,  and  abound,  they  make  you  that  ye  shall 
neither  In.  bairn,  nor  unfruitful  in  the  knowledge  of  our  Lord  je- 
mi^  Christ,  v.  .).  But  he  that  lacketh  these  tiling.,  is  blind,  and  can- 
not tee  lar  off,  and  hath  forgotten  that  he   was  purged  from  his  old 

6111.. 

q  Rom.  ii.  2  v  Thou  that  raaketh  thy  boast  of  the  law,  through 

iking  the  law,  di honourest  thou  God  r    v.  24.   For  the  name  of 

iig  the  Gentile-*,  through  you,  as  it  is  written. 

r  Gal.  iii.  I.  O  foolish  Galatians,  who  hath  bewitched  you,  that 

J  ou  should  not  obey  the  truth,  before  whose  eyes  Jesus  Christ  hath 

n  evidently  set  forth,  crucified  among  you?     v.  3.  Are  ye  so 

foolish  !   having  begun  in  the  Spirit,  are  ye  now  made  perfect  by  the 

\i.  6.   li:  they  shall   fall   away,  to  renew    them  again 

•  repentance:   seeing  they  crucify  to  themselves  the  Son  of  God 

.,  and  put  him  to  un  open  shejme. 

;  1 .1..  i  Exod.  xx.  7. 


The  Larger  Catechism.  %q  * 

profaned,  or  any  way  abused  by  us ;/  especially 
because  he  will  be  so  far  from  acquitting  and  spar- 
ing the  transgressors  of  this  commandment,  as 
that  he  will  not  surfer  them  to  escape  his  righte- 
ous judgment,!;  albeit  many  such  escape  the  cen- 
sures and  punishments  of  men.it; 

Q^ii5.  Which  is  the  fourth  commandment? 

A.  The  fourth  commandment  is,  Remember 
the  Sabbath-day  to  keep  it  holy.    Six  days  shah  thou 

t  Lev.  xix.  12.  And  ye  shall  not  swear  by  my  name  falsely,  nei- 
ther shalt  thou  profane  the  name  of  thy  God':  1  am  the  Lord.' 

v  Ezek.  xxxvi.  2f .  But  I  had  pity  for  mine  holy  name,  which  the 
house  of  Israel  had  profaned  among  the  heathen,  whither  they  went, 
y.  22.  Therefore  say  unto  the  house  of  Israei,  Thus  saith  the  Lord 
God,  I  do  not  this  lor  your  sakes,  O  house  of  Israel,  but  for  mine 
holy  name's  sake,  which  ye  have  profaned  among  the  heathen,  whi- 
ther ye  went.  v.  23.  And  I  will  sanctify  my  great  name,  which  was 
profaned  among  the  heathen,  which  ye  have  p.  oianed  in  the  midst  of 
them,  and  the  heathen  shall  know  that  I  am  the  Lord,  saith  the  Lord 
God,  when  I  shall  be  sanclified  in  you,  before  their  eyes.  Deut. 
xxviii.  58.  If  thou  wilt  not  observe  to  do  all  the  words  of  this  law 
that  are  written  in  this  book,  that  thou  mavest  fear  this  glorious  and 
fearful  name,  THE  LORD  THY  GOD ;  v.  59.  Then  the  Lord 
will  make  thy  plagues  wonderful,  and  the  plagues  of  thy  seed,  even 
great  plagues,  and  of  long  continuance,  and  sore  sicknesses,  and  of 
long  continuance.  Zech.  v.  2.  And  he  said  unto  me,  What  seest 
thou?  and  I  answered,  I  see  a  flying  roli,  the  length  thereof  is  twenty 
cubits,^  and  the  breadth  thereof  ten  cubits,  v.  3^  Then  said  he  unto 
me,  This  is  the  curse  that  goeth  forth  over  the  face  of  the  whole 
earth :  for  every  one  that  stealeth,  shall  be  cut  off  as  on  this  side,  ac- 
cording to  it :  and  every  one  that  sweareth,  shall  be  cut  off  as  on  that 
side,  according  to  it.  v.  4.  I  will  bring  it  forth,  saith  the  Lord  of 
hosts,  and  it  shall  enter  into  the  house  of  the  thief,  and  into  the  house 
of  him  that  sweareth  falsely  by  my  name. 

w  1  Sam.  ii.  12.  Now  the  sons  of  Eli  were  sons  of  Belial,  they 
knew  not  the  Lord.  v.  17.  Wherefore  the  sin  of  the  young  men 
was  very  great  before  the  Lord:  for  men  abhorred  the'  offering  of 
the  Lord.  v.  22.  Now  Eli  was  very  old,  and  heard  all  that  his  sons 
did  unto  all  Israei,  and  how  they  lay  with  the  women  that  assembled 
at  the  door  of  the  tabernacle  of  the'  congregation,  v.  24.  Nay,  mv 
sons:  for  it  is  no  good  report  that  I  near:  ye  make  the  Lord's  peo- 
ple to  transgress.  Compared  with  1  Sam. 'hi.  13.  For  I  have  told 
him,  that  I  will  judge  his  hou>e  forever,  for  the  iuiquirv  which  he 
knoweth:  because  his  sons  made  themselves  vile,  and  he  restraint* 
rhem  not. 


294  5W*  Larger  Catechism. 

labour,  and  do  xdl  thy  work:  Bui  the  seventh  day 
is  the  Sabbath  of  the  Lord  thy  God:  in  it  thou  shalt 
not  do  any  work,  thou,  nor  thy  son,  nor  thy  daugh- 
ter, thy  nan-servant,  nor  thy  ma. 'd- servant,  nor 
thy  cattle,  nor  thy  stranger  that  is  within  thy  gates. 
For  in  six  days  the  Lord  made  heaven  and  earth,  the 
sea,  and  all  that  in  them  is,  and  rested  the  seventh 
day:  wherefore  the  Lord  blessed  the  Sabbath-day, 
and  hallowed  tt.x 

Q^  1 1 6.  What  is  required  in  the  fourth  com- 
mandment ? 

A.  The  fourth  commandment  requireth  of  all 
men  the  sanctifying  or  keeping  holy  to  God  such 
set  times  as  he  hath  appointed  in  his  word,  ex- 
pressly one  whole  day  in  seven;  which  was  the 
seventh  from  the  beginning  of  the  world  to  the 
resurrection  of  Christ,  and  the  rirst  day  of  the 
week  ever  since,  and  so  to  continue  to  the  end 
of  the  world;   which  is  the  Christian  Sabbath,:- 

I'BJ.  x  EnocI.  xn.  S,  o,  io,  1 1. 

n6._y  Dent,  v.  12.  Keep  the  Sabbath-day  to  sandlify  it,  as  th<* 
Lord  thy  God  hath  commanded  thee.  v.  13.  oix  davs  shalt  thou 
:r,  and  do  all  thy  work:  v.  14.  But  the  seventh  day  is  the  Sab- 
bath of  the  Lord  thy  God:  in  it  thou  shalt  not  do  any  work,  thou, 
nor  thy  son,  nor  thy  daughter,  nor  thy  man-servant,  nor  thy  maid- 
servant, nor  thine  ox,  nor  thine  ass,  nor  any  of  thy  cattle,  nor  the 
stranger  that  i->  within  thy  gates;  that  thy  man-servant,  and  thy 
maid-servant,  may  rest  as  u  til  as  thou.  Gen.  ii.  2.  And  on  the 
seventh  day  God  ended  his  work  whicb  he  had  made:  and  he  rested 
on  the  seventh  tins  from  all  his  work  which  he  had  made.  v.  3.  And 
God  blessed  the  seventh  day,  and  sanctified  it;  because  that  in  it 
he  had  rested  from  all  his  work,  which  God  created  and  made.  1 
Cor.  xvi.  1.  Now  concerning  the  collection  for  the  saints;  as  I  have 
n  order  to  the  churches  oi  Galatia,  even  so  do  ye.  v.  2.  Upon 
the  first  day  of  the  week,  let  every  one  of  you  lay  by  him  in  store,  as 
God  hath  prospered  him,  that  there  be  no  gatherings  when  J  come. 
Actsw.7.  And  upon  tne  first  day  of  the  week,  when  the  disciples 
Came  together  to  break  bread,  Paul  pjrached  unto  them,  ready  to 
depart  on  the  morrow,  and  continued  bis  speech  until  midnight. 
Mat.  v.  1 ;.  Think  not  that  I  am  tome  to  destroy  the  law  or  the  pro- 


f&d  Larger  Catechism.  295 

and  in  the  New  Testament,  called  the  Lord's 


'ay.z 

Q^  117.  How  is  the  Sabbat h,  or  the  Lord's  day 
to  be  sanBifiedf 

A.  The  Sabbath,  or  Lord's  day  is  to  be  sancti- 
fied by  an  holy  resting  all  the  day, a  not  only  from 
such  works  as  are  at  all  times  sinful,  but  even 
from  such  worldly  employments  and  recreations 
as  are  on  other  days  lawful  ;b  and  making  it  our 

phets:  I  am  not  come  to  destroy,  but  to  fulfil,  v.  18.  For  verilv  I 
say  unto  you,  Till  heaven  and  earth  pass,  one  jot  or  one  tittle  shall 
in  no  wise  pass  from  the  law,  till  all  be  fulfilled.  Isa.  lvi.  2.  Blessed 
is  the  man  that  doth  this,  and  the  son  of  man  that  layeth  hold  on  it : 
that  keepeth  the  Sabbath  from  polluting  it,  and  keepeth  his  hand 
from  doing  any  evil.  v.  4.  For  thus  saith  the  Lord  unto  the  eu- 
nuchs that  keep  my  Sabbaths,  and  choose  the  things  that  please  me, 
and  take  hold  of  my  covenant,  v.  6.  Also  the  sons  of  the  stranger, 
that  join  themselves  to  the  Lord,  to  serve  him,  and  to  love  the  name 
of  the  Lord,  to  be  his  servants,  every  one  that  keepeth  the  Sabbath 
from  polluting  it,  and  taketh  hold  of  nay  covenant :  v.  7.  Even  them 
will  I  bring  to  my  holy  mountain,  and  make  them  joyful  in  my 
house  of  prayer  :  their  burnt  offerings  and  their  sacrifices  shall  be  ac- 
cepted upon  mine  altar;  for  mine  house  shall  be  called  an  house  of 
prayer  for  all  people. 

z  Rev.  i.  10.  I  was  in  the  Spirit  on  the  Lord's  day,  and  heard 
behind  me  a  great  voice,  as  of  a  trumpet. 

117.  a  Exod.  xx.  8.  Remember  the  Sabbath-dav,  to  keep  it  holy. 
r.  10.  But  the  seventh  day  is  the  Sabbath  of  the  Lord  thy  God:  in 
it  thou  shalt  not  do  any  work,  thou,  nor  thy  son,  &c. 

b  Exod.  xvi.  25.  And  Moses  said,  *Eat  that  to-day;  for  to-day  is  a 
Sabbath  unto  the  Lord  :  to-day  ye  shall  not  find  it  in  the  field,  v.  26. 
Six  days  ye  shall  gather  it :  but  on  the  seventh  day,  which  is  the  Sab- 
bath, in  it  there  shall  be  none.  v.  27.  And  it  came  to  pass,  that 
there  went  out  some  of  the  people  on  the  seventh  day  for  to  gather, 
and  they  found  none.  v.  28.  And  the  Lord  said  unto  Moses,  How 
long  refuse  ye  to  keep  my  commandments  and  my  laws?  Neh.  xiii. 
15.  In  those  days  saw  I  in  Judah,  some  treading  wine-presses  on  the 
Sabbath,  and  bringing  in  sheaves,  and  lading  asses ;  as  also  wineT 
grapes,  and  figs,  and  all  manner  of  burdens,  which  they  brought 
into  Jerusalem  on  the  Sabbath-day:  and  I  testified  against  them  \\\ 
the  day  wherein  they  sold  victuals,  v.  16.  There  dwelt  men  of  Tyre 
also  therein,  which  brought  fish,  and  all  manner  of  ware,  and  sold 
on  the  Sabbath,  unto  the  children  of  Judah,  and  in  Jerusalem,  v.  1 ;. 
Then  I  contended  with  the  nobles  of  Judah,  and  said  unto  then, 


1q6  7%e  Larger  Catechism, 

delight  to  spend  the  whole  time  (except  so  rhu 
of  it  as  is  to  be  taken  up  in  works  of  necessity  and 
mercv)r  in  the  public  and  private  exercises  of 
God's  worship  :d  and,  to  that  end,  we  are  to  pre- 

What  evil  thing  is  this  that  ye  do,  and  profane  the  Sabbath-daw1 
v.  1 8.  DiJ  not  your  lathers  thus,  and  did  not  our  God  bring  all  this 
evil  upon  us,  and  upon  this  city?  yet  ye  bring  more  wrath  upon  Is- 
rael, by  profaning  the  Sabbath,  v.  19.  And  it  came  to  pass,  that 
when  the  gates  of  Jerusalem  began  to  be  dark  before  the  Sabbath,  I 
commanded  that  t,  hoiTld  be  shut,  and  charged  that   they 

should  not  be  opened  till  after  the  Sabbath  :  and  some  of  my  servants 
set  I  at  the  gates,  that  there  should  no  burden  be  brought  in  on  the 
Sabbath-day.  v.  20.  So  the  m<  ;md  sellers  of  all  kind  of  ware, 

lodged  without  Jerusalem  once  or  twice,  v.  21.  Then  I  testified 
against  them,  and  said  unto  th'-m,  Why  lodge  ye  about  the  wall  ? 
if  ye  do  so  again,  I  will  lay  hands  on  you.  From  that  time  forth 
came  they  no  more  on  the  Sabbath,  v.  22.  And  I  commanded  the 
Levites,  that  they  should  cleanse  themselves,  and  that  they  should 
come  and  keep  the  gates,  to  sanftify  the  Sabbath-day.  Remember 
me,  O  my  God,  concerning  this  also,  and  spare  me  according  to 
the  greatness  of  thy  mercy.  Jer.xvii.sti.  Thus  saith  the  Lord, 
Take  heed  to  yourselves,  and  bear  no  burden  on  the  Sabbath-day, 
nor  bring  it  in  by  the  gates  of  Jerusalem,  v.  22.  Neither  carry  forth 
a  burden  out  of  your  house  on  the  Sabbath-day,  neither  do  ye  any 
work,  but  hallow  ye  the  Sabbath-day,  as  1  commanded  your  fathers. 

c  Mat.  xii.  from  verse  1  to  13.  At  that  time  Jesus  went  on  the 
Sabbath-day  through  the  corn,  and  his  disciples  were  an  hungred, 
and  began  to  pluck  the  ears  of  torn,  and  to  eat.  v.  2.  But  when 
the  Pharisees  saw  it,  &c. 

d  La.  Iviii.  13  ]  f  thou  turn  away  thy  foot  from  the  Sabbath,  from 
doing  thy  pleasure  on  my  holy  day,  and  call  the  Sabbath  a  delight, 
the  holv  of  the  Lord,  honourable,  and  shalt  honour  him,  not  doing 
thine  own  ways,  nor  finding  thine  own  pleasure,  nor  speaking  thine 
own  words.  Luke  iv.  16.  And  he  came  to  Nazareth,  where  he  had 
been  brought  up:  andj  as  hi-  custom  was,  he  went  into  the  syna- 
gogue on  the  S  iy,  and  stood  up  for  to  read.  Arts  xx.  7. 
And  upon  the  firs',  day  ol  the  week,  when  the  disciples  came  toge- 
ther to  break  I  ul  preached  unto  them,  ready  to  depart  on 
the  morrow.  1  Cor.  x\  i  1.  Now  concerning  the  collection  lor  the 
saints,  as  I  hav  (  giv<  n  orders  to  the  churches  of  Galatia,  even  so  do' 
ye.  v.  2.  Upon  the  first  day  of  the  week,  let  every  one  of  you  lay 
by  him  in  store,  as  C  Jwl  hath  prospered  him,  that  there  be  no  ga- 
therings when  1  come,  i'sai.  xcii.  (title)  A  Psalm  or  Song  for  the 
Sabbath-day.  Isa.  lxvi.  23.  And  it  shall  come  to  pass,  that  from  one 
moon  to  another,  and  from  one  Sabbath  to  another,  shall  all 
tiesh  come  to  worship  before  nit,  saith  the  Lord.    Lev.  xxiii.  3.  Six 


I'he  Larger  Catechism.  29 £ 

pare  our  hearts,  and  with  such  foresight,  dili- 
gence, and  moderation,  to  dispose,  and  season- 
ably to  dispatch  our  worldly  business,  that  we 
may  be  the  more  free  and  fit  for  the  duties  of  that 
day.e 

Q.  118.  Why  is  the  charge  of  keeping  the  Sab~ 
bath  more  specially  direcled  to  governors  of  families, 
and  other  superiors  f 

A.  The  charge  of  keeping  the  Sabbath  is  more 
specially  direcled  to  governors  of  families,  and 
other  superiors,  because  they  are  bound  not  only 
to  keep  it  themselves,  but  to  see  that  it  be  ob- 
served by  all  those  that  are  under  their  charge; 
and  because  they  are  prone  oftimes  to  hinder  them 
by  employments  of  their  own/ 

days  shall  work  be  done,  but  the  seventh  day  is  the  Sabbath  of  rest, 
an  holy  convocation :  ye  shall  do  no  work  therein :  it  is  the  Sab- 
bath of  the  Lord  in  all  your  dwellings. 

e  Exod.  xx.  8.  Remember  the  Sabbath-day,  to  keep  it  holy.  Luke 
xxiii.  54.  And  that  day  was  the  preparation,  and  the  Sabbath  drew 
on.  v.  56.  And  they  returned,  and  prepared  spices  and  ointments; 
and  rested  the  Sabbath-day,  according  to  the  commandment.  Exod. 
xvi.  22.  And  it  came  to  pass,  that  on  the  sixth  day  they  gathered 
twice  as  much  bread,  two  omers  for  one  man:  and  all  the  rulers  of 
the  congregation  came  and  told  Moses,  v.  25.  And  Moses  said,  Eat 
that  to-day;  for  to-day  is  a  Sabbath  unto  the  Lord  :  to-day  ye  shall 
not  find  it  in  the  field,  v.  26.  Six  days  ye  shall  gather  it ;  but  on 
the  seventh  day,  which  is  die  Sabbath,  in  it  there  shall  be  none.  v.  29. 
See,  for  that  the  Lord  hath  given  you  the  Sabbath,  therefore  he 
giveth  you  on  the  sixth  dav  the  bread  of  two  days :  abide  ye  everv 
man  in  his  place,  let  no  man  go  out  of  his  place  on  the  seventh  day, 
Neh.  xiii.  19.     (See  letter  b.) 

n8.y  Exod.  xx.  10.  But  the  seventh  day  is  the  Sabbath  of  the 
Lord  thy  God  :  in  it  thou  shalt  not  do  any  work,  thou,  nor  thy  son, 
nor  thy  daughter,  thy  man-servant,  nor  thy  maid-servant,  nor  thy 
cattle,  nor  thy  stranger  that  is  within  thytgates.  Josh.  xxiv.  iq. 
And  if  it  seem  evil  unto  you  to  serve  the  Lord,  choose  you  this  dav 
whom  ye  will  serve,  whether  the  gods  which  your  fathers  served, 
that  were  on  the  other  side  of  the  flood,  or  the  gods  of  the  Amorites, 
in  whose  land  ye  dwell:  but  as  for  me  and  my  house,  we  will  serve 
the  Lord.  Neb.  xiii.  75,  17.  (See  above  in  6.)  Jer.  xvii.  20.  And 
say  unto  them,  Hear  ye  the  word  of  the  Lord,  ye  kings  of  judah, 

2   P 


2 y 8  ffce Larger  Catechism. 

Q.  119.  What  are  the  sins  forbidden  hi  the  fourth 
commandment  f 

A.  The  sins  forbidden  in  the  fourth  command- 
ment are,  all  omissions  of  the  duties  required,^ 
all  careless,  negligent,  and  unprofitable  perform- 
ing of  them,  and  being  weary  of  them  ;h  all  pro- 
faning the  dav  bv  idleness,  and  doing-  that  which 
is    in  itself  sinful:/  and  by  all   needless  works, 

and  all  Judah,  and  all  the  inhabitants  of  Jerusalem,  that  enter  in  by 
these  ^ates.  v.  21,  22.  (See  above  in  b.)  Exod.  xxiii.  12.  Six  days 
thou ■  shaltdo  thy  work,  and  on  the  seventh  day  thou  shalt  rest:  that 
thine  ox  and  thine  ass  may  rest :  and  the  son  of  thy  hand-maid,  and 
the  stranger  may  be  refreshed. 

119.  g  Ezek.  xxii.  26.  Her  priests  have  violated  my  law,  and 
have  profaned  mine  holy  things:  they  have  put  no  difference  between 
the  holy  and  profane,  neither  have  they  shewed  difference  between 
the  unclean  and  the  clean,  and  have  hid  their  eyes  from  my  Sab- 
baths, and  I  am  profaned  among  them. 

h  Acfs  xx.  7.  And  upon  the  first  day  of  the  week,  when  the  dis- 
ciples came  together  to  break  bread,  Paul  preached  unto  them,  ready 
to  depart  on  the  morrow,  and  continued  his  speech  until  midnight 
v.  9.  And  there  sat  in  a  window  a  certain  young  man  named  Euty- 
chus,  being  fallen  into  a  deep  sleep  :  and  as  Paul  was  long  preaching, 
lie  sunk  down  with  sleep,  and  fell  down  from  the  third  loft,  and  p 
taken  up  dead.  Ezek.  xxxiii.  30.  Also,  thou  son  of  man,  the  children 
of  thy  people  still  are  talking  against  thee  by  the  walls,  and  in  the 
doors  of  the  houses,  and  speak  one  to  another,  every  one  to  his  bro- 
ther, saying,  Come,  I  pray  you,  and  hear  what  is  the  word  that 
cometh  forth  from  the  Lord.  v.  31.  And  they  come  unto  thee  as 
the  people  cometh,  and  they  sit  before  thee  as  my  people,  and  they 
hear  thy  words,  but  they  win1  not  do  them  :  for  with  their  mouth  they 
shew  much  love,  but  their  heart  goeth  after  their  covetousness.  v.  32. 
And  lo,  thou  art  unto  them  as  a  very  lovely  song  of  one  that  hath  a 
pleasant  voice,  and  can  play  well  on  an  instrument  :  for  they  hear 
thv  words,  but  they  do  them  not.  Amos  viii.  5.  Saying,  When  will 
the  new  moon  be  gone,  that  we  may  sell  corn  ?  and  the  Sabbath,  that 
we  may  set  forth  wheat,  making 'the  ephah  small,  and  the  shekel 
oreat,  and  falsifying  the  balances  by  deceit?  Mai.  i.  13.  Ye  said  also, 
Behold,  what  a  weariless  is  it !  and  ye  have  snuffed  at  it,  sakh  the 
Lord  Jf  hosts:  and  ye  brought  that  which  was  torn,  and  the  lame, 
and  the  sick;  thus  ye  brought  an  offering :  should  I  accept  this  of 
your  hands?  saith  the  Lord. 

'  /  Ezek.  xxiii.  38.  Moreover,  this  they  have  done  unto  me :  they 
have  defiled  my  sanftuary  in  the  same  day,  and  have  profaned  my 
Sabbatlu. 


fhe  Larger  Catechism.  299 

words,  and  thoughts,  about  our  worldly  employ- 
ments and  recreations./' 

Q^  1 20.  What  are  the  reasons  annexed  to  the 
fourth  commandment,  the  more  to  enforce  it? 

A.  The  reasons  annexed  to  the  fourth  com- 
mandment, the  more  to  enforce  it,  are  taken  from 
the  equity  of  it,  God  allowing  us  six  days  of  seven 
for  our  own  affairs,  and  reserving  but  one  for 
himself,  in  these  words,  Six  days  shalt  thou  labour, 
and  do  all  thy  works  :l  from  God's  challenging  a 
special  propriety  in  that  day,  I'he  seventh  day  is 
the  Sabbath  of  the  Lord  thy  Godiin  from  the  ex- 
ample of  God,  who  in  six  days  made  heaven  and 
earth,  the  sea,  and  all  that  in  them  is,  and  rested 
the  seventh  day:  and  from  that  blessing  which 
God  put  upon  that  day,  not  only  in  sanctifying 
it  to  be  a  day  for  his  service,  but  in  ordaining  it 
to  be  a  means  of  blessing  to  us  in  our  sanctifying 
it ;  Wherefore  the  Lord  blessed  the  Sabbath-day, 
and  hallowed  it.n 

Q^  121.  Why  is  the  word  Remember  set  in  the 
beginning  of  the  fourth  commandment  P 

A.  The  word  Remember  is  set  in  the  be^innine; 

k  Jer.  xvii.  24..  And  it  shall  come  to  pass,  if  ye  diligently  hearken 
unto  me,  saith  the  Lord,  to  bring  in  no  burden  through  the  gates  of 
this  city  on  the  Sabbath-day,  but  hallow  the  Sabbath-day,  to  do  no 
work  therein,  v.  27.  But  if  ye  will  not  hearken  unto  me  to  hallow 
the  Sabbath-day,  and  not  to  bear  a  burden,  even  entering  in  at  the* 
gates  of  Jerusalem  on  the  Sabbath-day:  then  will  I  kindle  a  fire  in 
the  gates  thereof,  and  it  shall  devour  the  palaces  of  Jerusalem,  and  it 
shall  not  be  quenched.  Isa.  lviii.  13.  If  thou  turn  away  thy  foot 
from  the  Sabbath,  from  doing  thy  pleasure  on  my  holy  day,  and  call 
the  Sabbath  a  delight,  the  holy  of  the  Lord,  honourable;  and  shalt 
honour  him,  not  doing. thine  own  ways,  nor  finding  thine  own  plea- 
sure, nor  speaking  thine  own  word- . 

120.  /  Exod.  xx.  9. 
Ejiod,  xx.  10. 

n  Exod.  xx.  1 1. 


300  !7/6<?  Larger  Catechism. 

of  the  fourth  commandment,©  partly  because  of 
the  great  benefit  of  remembering  it,  we  being 
thereby  helped  in  our  preparation  to  keep  it,/> 
and,  in  keeping  it,  better  to  keep  all  the  rest  of 
the  commandments,^  and  to  continue  a  thankful 
remembrance  of  the  two  great  benefits  of  creation 
and  redemption,  which  contain  a  short  abridg- 
ment of  religion  ;r  and  partly  because    we   are 

121.  0  Exod.  xx.  8. 

ji  Exod.  xvi.  23.  And  he  said  unto  them,  This  is  that  which  the 
Lord  hath  said,  To-morrow  is  the  rest  of  the  holy  Sabbath  unto  the 
Lord  :  bake  that  which  ye  will  bake  to-day,  and  seerhe  that  ye  will 
seethe;  and  that  which  remaineth  over,  lay  up  for  you  to  be  kept 
until  the  morning.  Luke  xxiii.  54.  And  that  day  was  the  prepara- 
tion, and  the  Sabbath  drew  on.  v.  $6.  And  they  returned,  and  pre- 
pared spices  and  ointments ;  and  rested  the  Sabbath-day,  according 
to  the  commandment.  Compared  with  Mark  xv.  42.  And  now 
when  the  even  was  come,  because  it  was  the  preparation,  that  is,  the 
day  before  the  Sabbath.  Neh.  xiii  19.  And  it  came  to  pass,  that 
when  the  gates  of  Jerusalem  began  to  be  dark  before  the  Sabbath,  I 
commanded  that  the  gates  should  be  shut,  and  charged  that  they 
should  not  be  opened  till  after  the  Sabbath :  and  some  of  my  ser- 
vants set  I  at  the  gates  that  there  should  no  burden  be  brought  in  on 
the  Sabbath-day. 

q  Psal.  xcii.  (title)  A  Psalm  or  song  for  the  Sabbath-day.  Com- 
pared with  v.  13.  Those  that  be  planted  in  the  house  of  the  Lord, 
shall  flourish  in  the  courts  of  our  God.  And  v.  14.  They  shall  still 
bring  forth  fruit  in  old  age  :  they  shall  be  fat,  and  flourishing.  Ezek. 
xx.  12.  Moreover  also,  I  gave  them  my  Sabbaths,  to  be  a  sign  be- 
tween me  and  them,  dial  they  might  know  that  I  am  the  Lord  that 
ianftify  them.  v.  19.  I  am  the  Lord  your  God;  walk  in  my  statutes, 
and  keep  mv  judgments,  and  do  them.  v.  20.  And  hallow  my 
Sabbaths ;  and  they  shall  be  a  sign  between  me  and  you,  that  ye  may 
know  that  1  am  the  Lord  your  God. 

r  Gen.  ii.  2.  And  on  the  seventh  day  God  ended  his  work  which 
he  had  made :  and  he  rested  on  the  seventh  day  from  all  his  work 
which  he  had  made.  v.  3.  And  God  blessed  the  seventh  day,  and 
•  notified  it:  because  that  in  it  he  had  rested  from  all  his  work,  which 
God  en  tted  and  made.  Psal.  cxviii.  22.  The  stone  which  the  buil- 
refused,  is  become  the  head-stone  of  the  corner,  v.  24.  This  is 
the  day  which  the  Lord  hath  made,  we  will  rejoice  and  be  glad  in  it. 
Compared  with  Afts  iv.  10.  Be  it  known  unto  you  all,  and  to  all 
the  people  ot  Israel,  that  by  the  name  of  Jesus  Christ  of  Nazareth, 
whom  yc  crucified,  whom  God  raised  from  the  dead,  even  by  him 


The  Larger  Catechism.  301 

very  ready  to  forget  it,j-  for  that  there  is  less  light 
of  nature  for  it,/  and  yet  it  restraineth  our  natural 
liberty  in  things  at  other  times  lawful  ;v  that  it 
cometh  but  once  in  seven  days,  and  many  worldlv 
businesses  come  between,  and  too  often  take  off 
our  minds  from  thinking  of  it,  either  to  prepare 
for  it,  or  to  sanclify  it  \w  and  that  Satan  with  his 
instruments  much  labour  to  blot  out  the  glory, 
and  even  the  memory  of  it,  to  bring  in  all  irreli- 
gion  and  impiety. x 

doth  this  man  stand  here  before  you  whole,  v.  1 1.  This  is  the  stone 
which  was  set  at  nought  of  you  builders,  which  is  become  the  head 
of  the  corner.  Rev.  i.  10.  I  was  in  the  Spirit  on  the  Lord's  day,  and 
heard  behind  me  a  great  voice,  as  of  a  trumpet. 

s  Ezek.  xxii.  26.  Her  priests  have  violated  my  law,  and  have 
profaned  mine  holy  things:  thev  have  put  no  difference  between  the 
holy  and  profane,  neither  have  they  shewed  difference  between  the 
unclean  and  the  clean,  and  have  hid  their  eyes  from  my  Sabbaths, 
and  I  am  profaned  among  them. 

/  Neh.  ix.  14.  And  madest  known  unto  them  thy  holy  Sabbath, 
and  commandedst  them  precepts,  statutes,  and  laws,  by  the  hand  of 
Moses  thy  servant. 

v  Exod.  xxxiv.  21.  Six  days  thou  shalt  work,  but  on  the  seventh 
day  thou  shalt  rest:  in  earing-time,  and  in  harvest  thou  shalt  resr. 

w  Deut.  v.  14.  But  the  seventh  day  is  the  Sabbath  of  the  Lord 
thy  God:  in  it  thou  shalt  not  do  any  work,  thou,  nor  thy  son,  nor 
thy  daughter,  nor  thy  man-servant,  nor  thy  maid-servant,  nor  thine 
ox,  nor  thine  ass,  nor  any  of  thy  cattle,  nor  thv  stranger  that  is  with- 
in thy  gates;  that  thy  man-servant  and  thy  maid-servant  may  rest  as 
well  as  thou.  v.  15.  And  remember  that  thou  wast  a  servant  id 
the  land  of  Egypt,  and  that  the  Lord  thy  God  brought  thee  out 
thence,  through  a  mighty  hand  and  by  a  stretched  out  arm :  there- 
fore the  Lord  thy  God  commanded  thee  to  keep  the  Sabbath-day. 
Amos  viii.  5.  Saying,  When  will  the  new  moon  be  gone,  that  we  may 
sell  corn  ?  and  the  Sabbath,  that  we  may  set  forth  wheat,  making 
the  ephah  small,  and  the  shekel  great,  and  falsifying  the  balances 
by  deceit  ? 

x  Lam.  i.  7.  Jerusalem  remembered  in  the  days  of  her  affliction, 
and  of  her  miseries,  all  her  pleasant  things  that  she  had  in  the  daj  3 
of  old,  when  her  people  fell  into  the  hand  of  the  enemy,  and  none 
did  help  her;  the  adversaries  saw  he'r,  and  did  mock  at  her  Sabbaths. 
Jer.  xvii.  21.  Thus  saith  the  Lord,  take  heed  to  yourselves,  and  bear 
no  burden  on  the  Sabbath-day,  nor  bring  it  in  by  the  gates  of  Jeru- 
salem, v,  22.  Neither  carry  forth  a  burden  out  of  your  houses-  on 


302  The  Larger  Catechism. 

Q^  122.  What  is  the  sum  of  the  six  command- 
ments which  contain  our  duty  to  man  f 

A.  The  sum  of  the  six  commandments  which 
contain  our  duty  to  man,  is  to  love  our  neighbour 
as  ourselvcs,y  and  to  do  to  others  what  we  would 
have  them  to  do  to  us.% 

0^123.   Which  is  the  fifth  commandment  ? 

A.  The  fifth  commandment  is,  Honour  thv 
father  and  thy  mother :  that  thy  days  may  be  long 
upon  the  land  which  the  Lord  thy  God  give th  thee. a 

Q.  124.  UIjo  are  meant  by  father  and  mother 
in  the  fifth  commandment  ? 

si.  By  father  and  mother,  in  the  fifth  command- 
ment, are  meant  not  only  natural  parents,^  but 
all  superiors  in  age, c  and  gifts  ;d  and  especially 

the  Sabbath-day,  neither  do  ye  any  work,  but  hallow  ye  the  Sab- 
bath-day, as  I  commanded  vour  fathers,  v.  23.  But  they  obeyed  nor, 
neither  inclined  their  ear,  but  made  their  neck  stiff,  that  they  might 
not  hear  nor  receive  instruction.  Neh.  xiii.  from  verse  15  to  23. 
Jn  those  days  saw  I  in  Judah,  some  treading  wine-presses  on  the 
Sabbath-day. — (See  in  letter  b.) 

122.  y  Mat.  xxii.  39.  And  the  second  is  like  unto  it,  Thou  shalt 
love  thv  neighbour  as  thyself. 

z  Mat.  vii.  12.  Therefore  all  things  whatsoever  ye  would  that  men 
should  do  to  you,  do  ye  even  so  to  them:  for  this  is  the  law  and  the 
prophets. 

123.  a    Exod.  XX.  T2. 

124.  b  Prov.  xxiii.  22.  Hearken  unto  thy  father  that  begat  thee, 
and  despise  not  thy  mother  when  she  is  old.  v.  25.  Thy  father  and 
thv  mother  shall  be  glad,  and  she  that  bear  thee  shall  rejoice.  Eph. 
vi.  1.  Children,  obey  your  parents  in  the  Lord:  for  this  is  right,  v. 
2.  Honour  thy  lather  and  mother,  (which  is  the  first  commandment 
with  promise.; 

c  1  Tim.  v.  1.  Rebuke  not  an  elder,  but  entreat  him  as  a  father, 
and  the  younger  men  as  brethren:  v.  2.  The. elder  women  as  mo- 
thers, the  younger  as  sisters,  with  all  purity. 

d  Gen.  iv.  20.  And  Adah  bare  Jabal:  he  was  the  father  of  such 
as  dwell  in  tents,  and  of  such  as  have  cattle,  v.  2:.  And  his  bro- 
ther's name  wasjubal:  he  was  the  father  of  all  such  as  handle  the 
harp  and  organ,  v.  22.  And  Zillah,  she  also  bare  Tubal-Cain,  an 
instructor  oi  every  artificer  in  brass  and  iron. — Gen.  xlv.  8.  So  now 
it  was  not  you  thatsent  1  ■  but  God;  and  he  hath  made  m< 


Sffie  Larger  Catechism.  303 

such  as,  by  God's  ordinance,  are  over  us  in  place 
of  authority,  whether  in  family,*?  church,/'  or 
commonwealth.^ 

Q^  125.  Why  are  superiors  styled  Father  and 
Mother? 

A.  Superiors  are  styled  Father  and  Mother  y 
both  to  teach  them  in  all  duties  towards  their  in- 
feriors, like  natural  parents,  to  express  love  and 
tenderness  to  them,  according  to  their  several  re- 
lations ;/6  and  to  work  inferiors  to  a  greater  wil- 

a  father  to  Pharaoh,  and  lord  of  all  his  house,  and  a  ruler  throughout 
all  the  land  of  Egypt. 

e  2  Kings  v.  13.  And  his  servants  came  near,  and  spake  unto  him, 
and  said,  My  father,  it  the  prophet  had  bid  thee  do  some  great  thing, 
wouldst  thou  not  have  done  it?  how  much  rather  then,  when  hesaitti 
to  thee,  Wash  and  be  clean  ? 

f  2  Kings  ii.  12.  And  Elisha  saw  it,  and  he  cried,  My  father,  mv 
father,  the  chariot  of  Israel,  and  the  horsemen  thereof. — 2  Kings 
xiii.  14.  Now  Elisha  was  fallen  sick,  of  his  sickness  whereof  he  died, 
and  Joash  the  king  of  Israel  came  down  unto  him,  and  wept  over 
his  lace,  and  said,  O  my  father,  my  father,  the  chariot  of  Israel,  and 
the  horsemen  thereof.  Gal.  iv.  19.  My  little  children,  of  whom  I 
travail  in  birth  again,  until  Christ  be  formed  in  you. 

g  Isa.  xlix.  23.  And  kings  shall  be  thy  nursing-fathers,  and  their 
queens  thy  nursing-mothers :  they  shall  bow  down  to  thee  with  their 
face  toward  the  earth,  and  lick  up  the  dust  of  thy  feet,  and  thou  shalt 
know  that  I  am  the  Lord:  for  they  shall  not  be  ashamed  that  wait 
for  me. 

125.  k  Eph.  vi.  4.  And  ye  fathers,  provoke  not  your  children  to 
wrath :  but  bring  them  up  in  the  nurture  and  admonition  of  the  Lord. 
2  Cor  xii.  14.  For  the  children  ought  not  to  lay  up  for  the  parents, 
but  the  parents  for  the  children.  1  Thess.  ii.  7.  But  we  were  gentle 
among  you,  even  as  a  nurse  cherisheth  her  children,  v.  8.  So,  being 
affectionately  desirous  of  you,  we  were  willing  to  hav;e  imparted  unto 
you,  not  the  gospel  of  God  only,  but  also  our  own  souls,  because  ye 
were  dear  unto  us.  v.  1 1.  As  you  know  how  we  exhorted  and  com- 
forted, and  charged  every  one  of  you,  as  a  father  doth  his  children. 
Numb.  xi.  11.  And  Moses  said  unto  the  Lord,  Wherefore  hast  thou 
afflicted  thy  servant?  and  wherefore  have  I  not  found  favour  inthv 
sight,  that  thou  layest  the  burden  of  all  this  people  upon  me?  v.  12. 
Have  I  conceived  all  this  people?  Have  I  begotten  them,  that  thou 
shouldst  say  unto  me,  Carry  them  in  thy  bosom,  (as  a  nursing-father 
beareth  the  sucking  child)  unto  the  land  which  thou  swarest  unto 
their  fathers  ? 


The  Larger  Catechism* 

Ungues  and  cheerfulness  in  performing  their  du- 
ties to  their  superiors,  as  to  their  parents  ?/' 

Q^i2  6.  What  is  the  general  scope  of  the  fifth 
commandment  f 

A.  The  general  scope  of  the  fifth  command- 
ment, is  the  performance  of  those  duties  which 
we  mutually  owe  in  our  several  relations,  as 
inferiors,  superiors,  or  equals./' 

Q^  127.  What  is  the  honour  that  inferiors  owe 
to  their  superiors  f 

A.  The  honour  which  inferiors  owe  to  their 
superiors,  is  all  due  reverence  in  heart,/  word,;/; 
and  behaviour  :n  prayer  and  thankseivino-  for 
tnem;o    imitation  of  their  virtues  and  graces; 


i  1  Cor.  iv.  14.  I  write  not  these  things  to  shame  you,  but  as  my 
beloved  sons  I  warn  you.  v.  1 5.  For  though  you  have  ten  thousand 
instructors  in  Christ,  yet  have  ye  not  many  fathers :  for  in  Christ 
Jesus  I  have  begotten  you  through  the  gospel,  v.  16.  Wherefore  I 
beseech  you,  be  ye  followers  of  me.     2  Kings  v.  1  3.    (See  letter  c.) 

126.  k  Eph.  v.  21.  Submitting  yourselves  one  to  another  in  the 
fear  of  God.  1  Peter  ii.  17.  Honour  all  men.  Love  the  brotherhood. 
Fear  God.  Honour  the  King.  Rom.  xii.  10.  Be  kindly  affectioned 
one  to  another,  with  brotherly  love;  in  honour  preferring  one  ano- 
ther. 

127.  /Mai.  i.  6.  A  son  honouir/h  his  father,  and  a  servant  his  mas- 
ter; if  then  I  be  a  father,  where  is  mint-  honour?  and  if  I  be  a  mas- 
ter, where  is  my  fear?  saith  the  Lord  of  hosts  unto  you,  O  priests, 
that  despise  my  name:  and  ye  say,  Wherein  have  we  despised  thy 
name?  Lev.  xix.  3.  Ye  shall  fear  every  man  his  mother  and  his  la- 
ther, and  keep  my  Sabbaths;    I  am  the  Lord  your  God. 

;«  Prov.  xxxi.  28.  Her  children  arise  up,  and  call   her  blessed; 
her  husband  also,  and  be  praiseth  her.     1  Peter  iii.  6.  Even  as  b 
fed  Abraham,  calling  him  lord  :  whose  daughters  ye  are  as  long 
do  well,  and  are  not  afraid  with  any  amazement. 
n  Lev.  xix.  32.  Thou   shalt  rise  up  before  me  hoary  head,  and 
honour  the  face  ol   the  old  man,  and  fear  thy  God;    I  am  the  Lord. 
1  Kings  ii.  19.  Bathsheba,  therefore,  went  unto  king  Solomon,  to 
:   unto  him  for  Adonijah;  and  the  king  rose  up  to  meet  her,  and 
bowed  himself  unto  her,  and  sat  down  on  his  throne,  and  caused  a 
seat  to  be  set  lor  the  king's  mother;  and  she  sat  on  hi  1  right  hand. 

0  1  Tim.  ii.  1.  I  exhort,  therefore,  that  first  of  all,  su| 
prayers,  intercessions,  and  giving  of  thanks  be  mule  for  all  men: 


The  Large?'  Catechism.  £o$ 

/willing  obedience  to  their  lawful  commands  and 
counsels;^  due  submission  to  their  corrections ;r 

v.  2.  For  kings,  and  for  all  that  are  in  authority;  that  we  may  lead 
a  quiet  and  peaceable  life  in  all  godliness  and  honesty. 

/i  Heb.  xiii.  7.  Remember  them  which  have  the  rule  over  you, 
who  have  spoken  unto  you  the  word  ol  God :  whose  faith  follow, 
considering  the  end  of  their  conversation.  Phil.  iii.  17.  Brethren, 
be  followers  together  of  me,  and  mark  them  which  walk  so,  as  ye 
have  us  for  an  ensample. 

<j  Eph.  vi.  1.  Children,  obey  your  parents  in  the  Lord  :  for  this 
is  right,  v.2.  Honour  thy  father  and  mother,  (which  is  the  first 
commandment,  with  promise.)  v.  5.  Servants,  be  obedient  to  them 
that  are  your  masters  according  to  the  flesh,  with  fear  and  trembling, 
in  singleness  of  your  heart,  as  unto  Christ :  v.  6.  Not  with  eye-ser- 
vice, as  men-pieasers,  but  as  the  servants  of  Christ,  doing  the  will 
of  God  from  the  heart;  v.  7.  With  good- will  doing  service,  as  to  the 
Lord,  and  not  to  men.  1  Peter  ii.  13.  Submit  yourselves  to  every 
ordinance  of  man  for  the  Lord's  sake  ;  whether  it  be  to  the  king,  as 
supreme:  v.  14.  Or  unto  governors,  as  unto  them  that  are  sent  by 
him  for  the  punishment  of  evil-doers,  and  for  the  praise  of  them  that 
do  well.  Rom.  xiii.  1.  Let  every  soul  be  subject  unto  the  higher 
powers.  For  there  is  no  power  but  of  God  :  the  powers  that  be,  are 
ordained  ol"  God.  v.  2.  Whosoever  therefore  resisteth  the  power, 
resisteth  the  ordinance  of  God ;  and  they  that  resist,  shall  receive 
to  themselves  damnation,  v.  3.  For  rulers  are  not  a  terror  to  o-ood 
works,  but  to  the  evil.  Wilt  thou  then  not  be  afraid  of  the  power; 
do  that  which  is  good,  and  thou  shalt  have  praise  of  the  same:  v.  4.. 
For  he  is  the  minister  of  God  to  thee  for  good.  Cut  if  thou  do  that 
which  is  evil,  be  afraid;  for  he  beareth  not  the  sword  in  vain:  for 
he  is  the  minister  of  God,  a  revenger  to  execute  wrath  upon  him  that 
doth  evil.  v.  5.  Wherefore  ye  must  needs  be  subject,  not  onlv  for 
wrath,  but  also  for  conscience  sake.  Heb.  xiii.  17.  Obey  them  that 
have  the  rule  over  you,  and  submit  yourselves:  for  they  watch  for 
your  souls,  as  they  that  must  give  account:  that  they  may  do  it  with 
joy,  and  not  with  grief;  for  that  is  unprofitable  for  you.  Prov.  iv.  3. 
For  I  was  my  father's  son,  tender  and  only  beloved  in  the  sight  of  mv 
mother,  v.  4  Fie  taught  me  also,  and  said  unto  me,  Let  thine  heart 
retain  my  words:  keep  my  commandments  and  livt.  Prov.  xxiii.  22. 
Hearken  unto  thy  father  that  begat  thee,  and  despise  not  thy  mother 
when  she  is  old.  Exod.  xviii.  19.  Hearken  now  unto  my  voice,  I 
will  give  thee  counsel,  and  God  shall  be  with  thee.  v.  24.  So  Moses 
hearkened  to  the  voice  of  his  father-in-law,  and  did  all  that  he  had 
said. 

r  Heb.  xii.  9.  Furthermore,  we  have  had  fathers  of  our  flesh, 
which  corrected  us,  and  we  gave  them  reverence:  shall  we  not  much. 
rather  be  in  subjt^ion  unto  the  Father  of  spirits,  and  live  ?    1  Pete: 

2CL 


306  ''The  Larger  Caiechism. 

fidelity  to,/  defence,/  and  maintenance  of  their 
persons  and  authority,  according  to  their  several 
ranks,  and  the  nature  of  their  places  ;i;  bearing 
with    their    infirmities,  and   covering   them    in 

ii.  18.  Servants,  be  subject  to  your  masters  with  all  fear,  not  only 
to  the  good  and  gentle,  but  also  to  the  froward.  v.  19.  For  this  is 
thank-worthv,  if  a  man  for  conscience  toward  God  endure  grief,  suf- 
fering wrongfully,  v.  20.  For  what  glory  is  it,  if  when  ye  be  buf- 
feted for  your  faults,  ye  shall  take  it  patiently  ?  but  if  when  ye  do 
well,  and  suffer  for  it,  ve  take  it  patiendv  ;  this  is  acceptable  with 
God. 

s  Tit.  ii.  9.  Exhort  servants  to  be  obedient  unto  their  own  mas- 
ters, and  to  please  them  well  in  all  things:  not  answering  again,  v. 
10.  Not  purloining,  but  shewing  all  good  fidelity;  that  they  may 
adorn  the  doctrine  of  God  our  Saviour  in  all  things. 

/  1  Sam.  „\xvi.  15.  And  David  said  to  Abner,  Art  not  thou  a  va- 
liant man;  and  who  is  like  to  thee  in  Israel?  wherefore  then  hast 
thou  not  kept  thy  Lord  the  King  ?  for  there  came  one  of  the  people 
in  to  destroy  the  King  thy  Lord.  v.  16.  This  thing  is  not  good  that 
thou  hast  done  :  as  the  Lord  liveth,  ye  are  worthy  to  die,  because  ye 
have  not  kept  your  master,  the  Lord's  anointed.  2  Sam.  xviii.  3. 
But  the  people  answered,  Thou  shalt  not  go  forth :  for  if  we  flee 
away,  they  will  not  care  for  us:  neither  if  half  of  us  die,  will  they 
care  for  us  :  but  now  thou  art  worth  ten  thousand  of  us ;  therefore 
now  it  is  better  that  thou  succour  us  out  of  the  city.  Esth.  vi.  2.  And 
it  was  found  written,  that  Mordecai  had  told  of  Bigthana  and  Teresh, 
two  of  the  king's  chamberlains,  the  keepers  of  the  door,  who  sought 
to  lay  hand  on  the  king  Ahasuerus. 

v  Mat.  xxii.  21.  They  say  unto  him,  Caesar's.  Then  saith  he 
unto  them,  Render  therefore  unto  Caesar,  the  things  which  are 
(Ja-sar's  :  and  unto  God,  the  things  that  are  God's.  Rom.  xiii.  6. 
For,  for  this  cause  pay  you  tribute  also;  for  they  are  God's  ministers, 
attending  continually  upon  this  very  tiling,  v.  7.  Render  therefore 
to  all  their  dues :  tribute  to  whom  tribute  is  due,  custom  to  whom 
custom,  fear  to  whom  fear,  honour  to  whom  honour.  1  Tim.  v.  17. 
Let  the  elders  that  rule  well,  be  counted  worthy  of  double  honour, 
especially  they  who  Lbour  in  the  word  and  doctrine,  v.  18.  For 
the  scripture  saith,  Thou  shalt  not  muzzle  the  ox  that  treadeth  out 
thti  corn  :  and,  The  labourer  is  worthy  of  his  reward.  Gal.  vi.  6. 
Let  him  that  is  taught  in  the  word,  communicate  unto  him  that 
teacheth,  in  all  good  things.  Gen.  xlv.  1 1.  And  there  will  I  nourish 
(for  yet  there  are  five  years  ol  famine)  lest  thou,  and  thy  house- 
hold, and  all  that  thou  hast,  come  to  poverty.  Gen.  xlvii.  12.  And 
I  oscph  nourished  his  father,  and  his  brethren,  and  all  his  father's 
household  with  bread,  according  to  their  families. 


'The  Larger  Catechism.  zsr? 

love, it;  that  so  they  may  be  an  honour  to  them 
and  to  their  government.* 

Q^  128.  What  are  the  sins  of  inferiors  against 
their  superiors? 

A.  The  sins  of  inferiors  against  their  superiors, 
are  all  neglect  of  the  duties  required  toward  them  ;y 
envying  at, 3  contempt  of,^  and  rebellion,^  against 


•w  1  Peter  ii.  18.  Servants,  be  subject  to  your  masters  with  all 
fear;  not  only  to  the  good  and  gentle,  but  also  to  the  froward.  Prov. 
xxiii.22.  Hearken  unto  thy  father  that  begat  thee,  and  despise  not 
thy  mother  when  she  is  old.  Gen.  ix.  23.  And  Shem  and  Japheth 
took  a  garment,  and  laid  it  upon  both  their  shoulders,  and  went  back- 
ward, and  covered  the  nakedness  of  their  father ;  and  their  faces 
were  backward,  and  they  saw  not  their  father's  nakedness. 

x  Psal.  cxxvii.  3.  Lo,  children  are  an  heritage  of  the  Lord :  and 
the  fruit  of  the  womb  is  his  reward,  v.  4.  As  arrows  are  in  the 
hand  of  a  mighty  man;  so  are  children  of  the  youth,  v.  5.  Happy 
is  the  man  that  hath  his  quiver  full  of  them  :  they  shall  not  be  ashamed, 
but  they  shall  speak  with  the  enemies  in  the  gate.  Prov.  xxxi.  23. 
Her  husband  is  known  in  the  gates,  when  he  sitteth  among  the  el- 
ders of  the  land. 

128.  y  Mat.  xv.  4..  For  God  commanded,  saying,  Honour  thy  fa- 
ther and  mother  :  and,  He  that  curseth  father  or  mother,  let  him  die 
the  death,  v.  5.  But  ye  say,  Whosoever  shall  say  to  his  father  or  his 
mother,  It  is  a  gift  by  whatsoever  thou  mightest  be  profited  by  me, 
v.  6.  And  honour  not  his  father  or  his  mother,  he  shall  be  free. 
Thus  have  ye  made  the  commandment  of  God  of  none  effect  by  your 
tradition. 

z  Numb.  xi.  28.  And  Joshua  the  son  of  Nun,  the  servant  of  Mo- 
ses, one  of  his  young  men,  answered  and  said,  My  Lord  Moses,  forbid 
them.  v.  29.  And  Moses  said  unto  him,  Enviest  thou  for  mv sake? 
Would  God  that  all  the  Lord's  people  were  prophets,  and  that  the 
Lord  would  put  his  Spirit  upon  them. 

a  1  Sam.  viii.  7.  And  the  Lord  said  unto  Samuel,  Hearken  unto 
the  voice  of  the  people  in  all  that  they  say  unto  thee:  for  they  have 
not  rejected  thee,  but  they  have  rejected  me,  that  I  should  not  rei^n 
over  them.  Isa.  iii.  5.  And  the  people  shall  be  oppressed,  every  one 
by  another,  and  every  one  by  his  neighbour:  the  child  shall  behave 
himself  proudly  against  the  ancient,  and  the  base  against  the  honour- 
able. 

b  2  Sam.  xv.  from  1  — 12.  And  it  came  to  pass  after  this,  that 
Absalom  prepared  him  chariots,  and  horses,  &c. 


3° 8  The  Larger  Catechism. 

their  persons,*:  and  places,^/  in  their  lawful  coun- 
sels,* commands,  and  corrections  ;/*cursing,  mock* 
ing,g  and  all  such  refractory  and  scandalous  car- 
riage, as  proves  a  shame  and  dishonour  to  them 
and  their  government./; 

Q^  129.  What  is  required  of  superiors  towards 
their  inferiors  f 

A.  It  is  required  of  superiors,  according  to  that 
power  they  receive  from  God,  and  that  relation 
wherein  they  stand,  to  love,/  pray  for,/'  and  bless 


c  Exod.  xxi.  i£.  And  he  that  smiteth  his  father,  or  his  mother. 
shall  surely  be  put  to  death. 

'd  1  Sam.  x.  27.  But  the  children  of  Belial  said,  How  shall  this 
man  save  us?  and  they  despised  him,  and  brought  him  no  presents: 
but  he  held  his  peace. 

e.  1  Sam.  ii.  25. — Notwithstanding  they  (viz.  the  sons  of  Eli) 
hearkened  not  unto  the  voice  of  their  father,  because  the  Lord  would 
slay  them. 

f  Deut.  xxi.  18.  If  a  man  have  a  stubborn  and  rebellious  son, 
which  will  not  obey  the  voice  of  his  father,  or  the  voice  of  his  mo- 
ther, and  that  when  they  have  chastened  him,  will  not  hearken  un- 
to them:  f.  19.  Then  shall  his  father  and  his  mother  lay  hold  on 
hitn,  and  bring  him  out  unto  the  elders  of  the  citv,  and  unto  the 
gate  of  his  place:  v.  20.  And  they  shall  say  unto  the  elders  of  his 
city,  This  our  son  is  stubborn  and  rebellious,  he  will  not  obey  our 
voice;  he  is  a  glutton,  and  a  drunkard,  v.  21.  And  all  the  men  of 
his  city  shall  stone  him  with  stones  that  he  die:  so  shalt  thou  put 
evil  away  from  among  you,  and  all  Israel  shall  hear,  and  fear. 

g  Prov.  xxx.  11.  There  is  a  generation  that  curseth  their  father, 
and  doth  not  bless  their  mother,  v.  1  7.  The  eye  that  mocketh  at  his 
father,  and  despiseth  to  obey  his  mother,  the  ravens  of  ihe  valley 
shall  pick  it  out,  and  the  young  eagles  shall  cat  it. 

h  Prov.  xix.  26.  He  that  wastetu  his  father,  and  Chaseth  away  his 
mother,  is  a  son  that  CSbseth  shame,  and  bringeth  reproach. 

129.  i  Col.  iii.  19.  Husbands  love  your  wives,  and  be  not  bitter 
against  them.  Tit.  ii.  4.  That  they  may  teach  the  young  women  to 
be  sober,  to  love  their  husbands,   to  love  their  children. 

k  1  Sam.  xii.23.  Moreover,  as  for  me,  God  forbid  that  I  should 
sin  against  the  Lord,  in  ceasing  to  pray  for  you  :  but  I  will  teach  you 
the  good  and  the  right  way.  Job  i.  q.  And  it  was  so,  when  the 
liavs  of  their  feasting  were  gone  about,  that  Job  sent  and  sanctified 
them,  and  rose  up  early  in  the  morning,  and  ottered  burnt-offerings, 


The  Larger  Catechism.  309 

their  inferiors;/  to  instruct,?/z  counsel  and  admo- 
nish them;//  countenancing, 0  commending,^)  and 
rewarding  such  as  do  well,y  and  discountenanc- 
ing,;^ reproving,  and  chastising  such  as  do  \\\;s 
protecting,/    and  providing  for  them  all  things 

according  to  the  number  of  them  all;  for  Job  said,  It  mav  be  that 
my  sons  have  sinned,  and  cursed  God  in  their  hearts.  Thus  did  Job 
continually. 

/  1  Kings  viii.  55.  And  he  stood,  and  blessed  all  the  congregation 
of  Israel,  with  a  loud  voice,  saying,  v.  56.  Blessed  be  the  Lord,  that 
hath  given  rest  unto  his  people  Israel,  according  to  all  that  he  pro- 
mised: there  hath  not  tailed. — JLb.  vii.  7.  And  without  all  contra- 
diction, the  less  is  blessed  of  the  better.  Gen.  xlix.  28.  All  these 
are  the  twelve  tribes  of  Israel ;  and  this  is  it  that  their  father  spake  un- 
to them,  and  blessed  them;  every  one  according  to  his  blessing  he 
blessed  them. 

m  Deut.  vi.  6.  And  these  words  which  I  command  thee  this  day, 
shall  be  in  thine  heart,  v.  7.  And  thou  shalt  teach  them  diligentlv 
unto  thy  children,  and  shalt  talk  of  them  when  thou  sittest  in  thine 
house,  and  when  thou  walkest  by  the  way,  and  when  thou  liest 
down,  and  when  thou  risest  up. 

«  Eph.  vi.  4.  And  ye  fathers,  provoke  not  your  children  to  wrath: 
but  bring  them  up  in  the  nurture  and  admonition  of  the  Lord. 

0  1  Pet.  ill-  7.  Likewise,  ye  husband':,  dwell  with  them  accord- 
ing to  knowledge,  giving  honour  unto  the  wife  as  unto  the  weaker 
vessel,  and  as  being  heirs  together  of  the  grace  of  life;  that  vour 
pravers  be  not  hindered. 

ft  1  Pet.  ii.  14.  Or  unto  governors,  as  unto  them  that  are  sent  by 
him  for  the  punishment  of  evil  doers,  and  for  the  praise  of  them  that 
do  well.  Rom.  xiii.  3.  For  rulers  are  not  a  terror  to  good  works, 
but  to  the  evil.  Wilt  thou  then  not  be  afraid  of  the  power?  do  that 
which  is  good,  and  thou  shalt  have  praise  of  the  same. 

q  Esth.  vi.  3.  And  the  king  said,  what  honour  and  dignity  hath 
been  done  to  Mordecai  for  this?  Then  said  the  King's  servants  that 
jninistered  unto  him,  There  is  nothing  done  lor  him. 

r  Rom.  xiii.  3.  For  rulers  are  not  a  terror  to  good  works,  but  to 
the  evil.  Wilt  thou  then  not  be  afraid  of  the  power?  do  that  which 
is  good,  and  thou  shalt  have  praise  of  the  same:  v.  4.  For  he  is  the 
minister  of  God  to  thee  for  good.  But  if  thou  do  that  which  is  evil, 
be  afraid;  for  he  beareth  not  the  sword  in  vain:  for  he  is  the  minis- 
ter of  God,  a  revenger  to  execute  wrath  upon  him  that  doth  evil. 

s  Prov,  xxix.  15.  The  rod  and  reproof  give  wisdom:  but  a  child 
left  to  himself,  bringeth  his  mother  to  shame.  1  Pet.  ii.  14.  (See 
above  letter^.) 

t  Job  xxix.  12.  Because  I  delivered  the  poor  that  cried,  and  the 
fatherless,  and  him  that  had  none  to  help  him,  v.  13.  The  blessing 


3 1  o  The  Larger  Catechism. 

necessary  for  souk?  and  body  :iu  and  by  grave, 
aviso,  holy,  and  exemplary  carriage,  to  procure 
glory  to  God,*  honour  to  themselves,^  and  so 
to  preserve  that  authority  which  God  hath  put 
upon  them. s 

Q^  i  30.   What  arc  the  sins  of  superiors? 

A.  The  sins  of  superiors  are,  beside  the  neglect 
of  the  duties  required  of  them, a  an  inordinate 

of  him  that  was  ready  to  perish,  came  upon  me:  and  1  caused  the 
widow's  heart  to  sing  tor  joy.  v.  14.  1  put  on  righteousness,  and  it 
clothed  me:  my  judgment  was  as  a  robe  and  a  diadem,  v.  15.  I  was 
eyes  to  the  blind,  and  feet  was  I  to  the  lame.  v.  16.  I  was  a  father 
to  the  poor:  and  the  cause  which  I  knew  not,  I  searched  out.  v.  17. 
And  I  brake  the  jaws  of  the  wicked,  and  plucked  the  spoil  out  of  his 
teeth.  Isa.  i.  10.  Hear  the  word  of  the  Lord,  ye  rulers  of  Sodom  ; 
give  ear  unto  the  law  of  our  God,  ye  people  of  Gomorrah,  v.  17. 
Learn  to  do  well,  seek  judgment,  relieve  the  oppressed,  judge  the 
fatherless,  plead  i or  the  widow. 

v  Eph.  vi.  4.  And  ye  fathers,  provoke  not  your  children  to  wrath: 
but  bring  them  up  in  the  nurture  and  admonition  of  the  Lord. 

7:'  1  Tim.  v.  8.  But  if  any  provide  not  lor  his  own,  and  especi- 
ally for  those  of  his  own  house,  he  hath  denied  the  faith,  and  is  worse 
than  an  infidel. 

x  1  Tim.  iv.  12.  Let  no  man  despise  thy  youth,  but  be  thou  an 
example  of  the  believers,  in  word,  in  conversation,  in  charity,  in 
spirit,  in  faith,  in  purity.  Tit.  ii.  3.  The  aged  women  likewise, 
that  they  be  in  behaviour  as  becometh  holiness;  not  false  accusers, 
not  given  to  much  wine,  teachers  of  good  things;  v.  4.  That  thev 
may  tench  the  young  women  to  be  sober,  to  love  their  husbands,  to 
love  their  children,  v.  5.  To  be  discreet,  chaste,  keepers  at  home, 
good,  obedient  to  their  own  husbands,  that  the  word  ol  God  be  not 
blasphemed; 

v  1  Kings  hi.  28.  And  ail  Israel  heard  of  the  judgment  which  the 
King  had  judged,  and  they  feared  the  King:  for  they  saw  that  the 
wisdom  ol  God  was  in  him,  todo  judgment. 

z  Tit.  ii.  15.  These  things  speak  ::nd  exhort,  and  rebuke  with  all 
aurhoritv.     Let  no  man  despite  thi 

130.  a  Ezeki  xxxiv.  2.  Son  o!  man,  prophesy  against  the  shep- 
herds ol  Israel;  prophesy  and  say  unto  rhen\  Thtn  saith  the  Lord 
God  unto  the  shepherds,  »Wo  be  to  the  shepherds  ol  Israel  that  do 
feed  themselves :  should  not  the  shepherds  feed  th  .  3.  Ye 

cat  the  fat,  and  ve  clothe  you    with  the  wool,  ye  kill  them  that  are 
but  y<    feed   not  the  Mock.     v.   «..  Thi  have   ye  not 

Strengthened,  neither  have  ye  healed  Mat  which  was  sick,  neitlw. 


^the  Larger  Catechism.  311 

seeking  of  themselves,^  their  own   glory, c  ease, 
profit,  or  pleasure;^  commanding  things  unlaw- 
ful,^ or  not  in  the  power  of  inferiors  to  perform  \f 
counselling,^   encouraging, h   or  favouring  them 

have  ye  bound  up  that  which  was  broken,  neither  have  ye  brought 
again  that  which  was  driven  away,  neither  have  ye  sought  that  which 
was  lost ;  but  with  force  and  with  cruelty  have  ye  ruled  them. 

b  Phil.  ii.  21.  For  all  seek  their  own,  not  the  things  which  are 
Jesus  Christ's. 

c  John  v.  44.  How  can  ye  believe  which  receive  honour  one  of 
another,  and  seek  not  the  honour  that  cometh  from  God  only  ? 
John  vii.  18.  He  that  speaketh  of  himself,  seeketh  his  own  glory : 
but  he  that  seeketh  his  glory  that  sent  him,  the  same  is  true,  and  no 
unrighteousness  is  in  him. 

d  Isa.  lvi.  10.  His  watchmen  are  blind:  they  are  all  ignorant, 
they  are  all  dumb  dogs,  they  cannot  bark;  sleeping,  lying  down, 
loving  to  slumber,  v.  it.  Yea,  they  are  greedy  dogs,  which  can 
never  have  enough,  and  they  are  shepherds  that  cannot  understand: 
they  all  look  to  their  own  way,  every  one  for  his  gain,  from  his 
quarter.  Deut.  xvii.  i  7.  Neither  shall  he  multiply  wives  to  him- 
self, that  his  heart  turn  not  away:  neither  shall  he  greatly  multiply 
to  himself  silver  and  gold. 

e  Dan.  iii.  4.  Then  an  herald  cried  aloud,  To  you  it  is  com- 
manded, O  people,  nations  and  languages,  v.  5.  That  at  what  time 
ye  hear  the  sound  of  the  cornet,  flute,  harp,  sackbut,  psaltery,  dul- 
cimer, and  all  kinds  of  music,  ye  fall  down  and  worship  the  golden 
image  that  Nebuchadnezzar  the  king  hath  set  up.  v.  6.  And  whoso 
falleth  not  down  and  worshippeth,  shall  the  same  hour  be  cast  into 
the  midst  of  a  burning  fiery  furnace.  Acts  iv.  17.  But  that  it  spread 
no  further  among  the  people,  let  us  straitly  threaten  them,  that  they 
speak  henceforth  to  no  man  in  this  name.  v.  18.  And  they  called 
them,  and  commanded  them  not  to  speak  at  all,  nor  teach  in  the 
name  of  Jesus. 

f  Exod.  v.  from  verse  10  to  the  18.  And  the  task-masters  of  the 
people  went  out,  and  their  officers,  and  they  spake  to  the  people, 
saying,  Thus  saith  Pharaoh,  I  will  not  give  you  straw,  &c.  Mat. 
xxiii.  2.  Saying,  The  Scribes  and  Pharisees  sit  in  Moses'  seat.  v.  4. 
For  they  bind  heavy  burdens,  and  grievous  to  be  borne. 

g  Mat.  xiv.  8.  And  she,  being  before  instructed  of  her  mother, 
said,  Give  me  here  John  Baptist's  head  in  a  charger.  Compared 
with  Mark  vi.  24.  And  she  went  forth,  and  said  unto  her  mother, 
W  hat  shall  I  ask  r  and  she  said,  The  head  of  John  the  Baptist. 

h  2  Sam.  xiii.  28.  Now  Absalom  had  commanded  his  servants, 
saying,  Mark  ye  now  when  Amnon's  heart  is  merry  with  wine,  and 
when  I  say  unto  you,  Smite  Amnon,  then  kill  him,  fear  not:  have 
jaot  I  commanded  you  ?  be  courageous,  and  be  valiant. 


the  Large?'  Catechism. 


j 


in  that  which  is  evil ;/  dissuading,  discouraging;, 
or  discountenancing  them  in  that  which  is  good  \k 
correcting  them  unduly;/  careless  exposing,  or 
leaving  them  to  wrong,  temptation  and  danger  \m 
provoking  them  to  wrath ;«  or  anv  way  disho- 
nouring themselves,  or  lessening  their  authority, 
bv  an  unjust,  indiscreet,  rigorous,  or  remiss  beha- 
viours 


i  i  Sam.  iii.  15.  Fori  have  told  him,  that  I  will  judge  his  house 
fbc  ever,  for  the  iniquity  which  lie  knoweth;  because  his  sons  made 
themselves  vile,  and  he  restrained  them  not. 

k  John  vii.  46.  The  officers  answered,  Never  man  spake  like  this 
man.  v.  47.  Then  answered  them  the  Pharisees,  Are  ye  also  de- 
ceived? v.  48.  Have  any  ol  the  rulers,  or  oi  tiie  Pharisees  believed 
on  him  r  v.  49.  But  thib  people  who  knoweth  not  the  law  are  cursed. 
Col.  iii.  21.  Fathers,  provoke  not  your  children  to  anger,  lest  they 
be  discouraged.  Exod.  v.  17.  But  he  said,  Ye  are  idle,  )e  are  idle: 
there/ore  \e  say,  Let  us  go,  and  do  sacrifice  to  the  Lord. 

/  1  Peter  ii.  18.  Servants,  be  subject  to  your  masters  with  all 
fear,  not  only  to  the  good  and  gentle,  but  also  to  the  iroward.  v.  iy. 
For  this  is  thank-worthy,  if  a  man  tor  conscience  toward  God  en- 
dure grief,  suffering  wrongfully,  y.  20.  For  what  glory  is  it,  if 
when  ye  be  buffeted  for  your  lauhs,  ye  shall  take  it  patiently;  but  if 
when  ye  do  well,  and  sutler  lor  it,  ye  take  it  patiently;  this  is  ac- 
ceptable with  God.  Heb.  xii.  10.  For  they,  verily,  for  a  few  days 
chastened  us  after  their  own  pleasure;  but  he  for  our  profit,  that  we 
might  be  partakers  ol  his  holiness.  Deutj  xxv.  3.  Forty  stripes  lie 
may  give  him,  and  not  exceed:  lest  if  he  should  exceed,  and  beat 
him  above  these  with  many  stripes,  then  thy  brother  should  seem 
vile  unto  thee. 

m  Gen.  xxxviii.  1 1.  Then  said  Judah  to  Tamar  his  daughrer-in- 
law,  Remain  a  widow  at  thy  father's  house,  till  Sntldh  my  son  be 
grown:  (tor  he  said,  Lebt  perad venture  he  die  also  as  his  brethren 
did);  and  Tamar  wen;  and  dwelt  in  her  father's  house,  v.  26.  And 
Judah  acknowledged  tlem,  aim  said,  She  hath  been  ir.ore  righte- 
ous than  1;  because  that  1  gave  her  not  to  S.ieiau  my  son;  and  he 
knew  her  again  no  moi  iii.  1  7.   Tr.cn  all  the  Greeks  took 

Sosthenes,  the  chief  ruler  of  the  synagogue,  and  beat  him  before  the 
judgment-seat:  and  Galho  cared  foJ  none  of  those  thii \\ 

n  Fph.  vi.  6.  And  ye  fall  okc  not  your  children  to  wrath: 

but  bring  them  up  in  the  nurture  and  admonition  or  the  Lord. 

0  Gen.  ix.  21.  And  he  drank  ot  the  wine  and  was  drunken,  and 
he  was  uncovered  within  his  tent.  1  kiu^s  xii.  13.  And  the  king 
(Rehoboam}  answered  the  people  roughly,  and  loisook  the  old  men's 


5fhe  Larger  Catechism,  3 1 3 

Q^  131.  What  are  the  duties  of  equals  f 

A.  The  duties  of  equals  are,  to  regard  the  dig- 
nity and  worth  of  each  other,/>  in  giving  honour 
to  go  one  before  another  ;^  and  to  rejoice  in  each 
other's  gifts  and  advancement,  as  in  their  own.r 

Q.    132.  What  are  the  sins  of  equals'? 

A.  The  sins  of  equals  are,  beside  the  neglect 
of  the  duties  required,*  the  undervaluing  of  the 


counsel  that  they  gave  him;  v.  14.  And  spake  to  them  after  the 
counsel  of  the  young  men,  sayings  My  father  made  your  yoke  heavy, 
and  I  will  add  to  your  yoke;  my  father  also  chastised  you  with 
whips,  but  I  will  chastise  you  with  scorpions,  v.  15.  Wherefore 
the  king  hearkened  not  unto  the  people ;  for  the  cause  was  from  the 
Lord, — v.  16.  So  when  all  Israel  saw  that  the  king  hearkened  not 
unto  them,  the  people  answered  the  king,  saying,  What  portion 
have  we  in  David?  neither  have  we  inheritance  in  the  son  of  Jesse  % 
to  your  tents,  O  Israel :  now  see  to  thine  own  house,  David.  So  Israel 
departed  unto  their  tents.  1  Kings  i.  6.  And  his  father  had  not  dis- 
pleased him  (viz.  Adonijah)  at  any  time,  in  saying,  Why  hast  thou, 
done  so  ?  1  Sam.  ii.  29.  Wherefore  kick  ye  at  my  sacrifice,  and  at 
mine  offering  which  I  have  commanded  in  my  habitation,  and  ho° 
nourest  thy  sons  above  me,  to  make  yourselves  fat  with  the  chiefest 
of  all  the  offerings  of  Israel  my  people?  v.  30.  Wherefore  the  Lord 
God  of  Israel  saith,  I  said  indeed,  that  thy  house,  and  the  house  of 
thy  father  should  walk  before  me  forever;  but  now  the  Lord  saith, 
Be  it  far  from  me ;  for  them  that  honour  me,  I  will  honour,  and  they 
that  despise  me,  shall  be  lightly  esteemed,  v.  31.  Behold,  the  days 
come  that  I  will  cut  off  thine  arm,  and  the  arm  of  thy  father's  houset 
that  there  shall  not  be  an  old  man  in  thine  house. 

131.  Jt  1  Peter  ii.  17.  Honour  all  men.  Love  the  brotherhood. 
Fear  God.     Honour  the  king. 

q  Rom.  xii.  10.  Be  kindly  affeftioned  one  to  another;  with  bro» 
therly  love,  in  honour  preferring  one  another. 

r  Rom.  xii.  15.  Rejoice  with  them  that  do  rejoice,  and  weep 
with  them  that  weep.  v.  16.  Be  of  the  same  mind  one  towards  an- 
other. Mind  not  high  things,  but  condescend  to  men  of  low  estate. 
Be  not  wise  in  your  own  conceits.  Phil.  ii.  3.  Let  nothing  be  done 
through  strife  or  vain-glory,  but  in  lowliness  of  mind  let  each  esteem 
other  better  than  themselves,  v.  4.  Look  not  every  man  on  his  own 
things,  but  every  man  also  on  the  things  of  others. 

132.  s  Rom.  xiii.  8.  Owe  no  man  any  thing,  but  to  love  one  an- 
other :  for  he  that  loveth  another,  hath  fulfilled  the  law, 

2R 


314  The  Larger  CatechuriU 

worth,/  envying  the  gifts,^  grieving  at  the  ad- 
vancement or  prosperity  one  of  another  \w  and 
usurping  pre-eminence  one  over  another.* 

Qi.  1 33-  What  it  the  reason  amiexed  to  the  fifth 
commandment ,  the  more  to  enforce  it? 

A.  The  reason  annexed  to  the  fifth  command- 
ment, in  these  words,  That  thy  days  may  be  long 
upon  the  land  which  the  Lord  thy  God  give th  thee,y 
is  an  express  promise  of  long  life  and  prosperity, 
as  far  as  it  shall  serve  for  God's  glory  and  their 
own  good,  to  all  such  as  keep  this  command- 
ment, s 

/  2  Tim.  iii.  3.  Without  natural  affe&ion,  truce-breakers,  fahe 
accusers,  incontinent,  fierce,  despisers  of  those  that  are  good. 

t>  Aclsvii.  9.  And  the  patriarchs,  moved  with  envy,  sold  Joseph 
into  Egypt;  but  God  was  with  him.  Gal.  v.  26.  Let  us  not  be  de- 
sirous of  vain-glory,  provoking  one  another,  envying  one  another. 

iu  Numb.  xii.  2.  And  they  said,  Hath  the  Lord  indeed  spoken 
only  by  Moses  ?  hath  he  not  spoken  also  by  us  ?  and  the  Lord  heard 
it.  Esth.  vi.  12.  AndMordecai  came  again  to  the  king's  gate:  but 
Haman  hasted  to  his  house,  mourning,  and  having  his  head  covered. 
v.  13.  And  Haman  told  Zeresh  his  wife,  and  all  his  friends,  every 
thing  that  had  befallen  him.  Then  said  his  wise  men,  and  Zeresh  his 
wife  unto  him,  If  Mordecai  be  of  the  seed  of  the  Jews,  before  whom 
thou  hast  begun  to  fall,  thou  shaft  not  prevail  against  him,  but  shaft 
surely  fall  before  him. 

x  3  John  9.  I  wrote  unto  the  church:  but  Diotrephes,  who  lov- 
eth  to  have  the  pre-eminence  among  them,  receivcth  us  not.  Luke 
xxii.  24.  And  there  was  also  a  strife  among  them,  which  of  them 
should  be  accounted  the  greatest. 

133.  y  Exod.  xx.  12. 

z  Dtut.  v.  16.  Honour  thy  father  and  thy  mother,  as  the  Lort) 
thy  God  hath  commanded  thee,  that  thy  days  may  be  prolonged,  and 
that  it  may  go  well  with  thee,  in  the  land  which  the  Lord  thy  God 
giveth  thet.  1  Kings  viii.  25.  Therefore  now,  Lord  God  of  Israel, 
keep  with  thy  servant  David  my  father  that  thou  promisedst  him, 
saying,  There  shall  not  lail  thee  a  man  in  my  sight,  to  sit  on  the 
throne  of  Israel;  so  that  thy  children  take  heed  to  their  way,  that 
they  walk  before  me  as  thou  hast  walked  before  me.  Eph.  vi.  2. 
Honour  thy  father  and  mother  (which  is  the  first  commandment 
with  promise,)  v.  3.  That  it  may  be  well  with  thee,  and  thou  D 
est  live  long  on  the  earth. 


*fhe  Larger  Catechism.  $i$ 

Q-   134.  Which  is  the  sixth  commandment? 

A.  The  sixth  commandment  is,  'Thou  shalt  not 
kill. a 

Qr  l35'  What  are  the  duties  required  in  the 
sixth  commandment  ? 

A.  The  duties  required  in  the  sixth  command- 
ment are,  all  careful  studies,  and  lawful  endea- 
vours, to  preserve  the  life  of  ourselves  £  and 
others, c  by  resisting  all  thoughts  and  purposes,^/ 
subduing  all  passions,?  and  avoiding  all  occasions/* 


234.  a  Exod.  xx.  13. 

135.  b  Eph.  v.  28.  So  ought  men  to  love  their  wives,  as  their 
own  bodies :.  he  that  loveth  his  wife  loveth  himself,  v.  29.  For  no 
man  ever  yet  hated  his  own  flesh;  but  nourisheth  and  cherisheth 
it,  even  as  the  Lord  the  church. 

c  1  Kings  xviii.  4.  For  it  was  so,  when  Jezebel  cut  off  the  pro- 
phets of  the  Lord,  that  Obadiah  took  an  hundred  prophets,  and  hid 
them  by  fifty  in  a  cave,  and  fed  them  with  bread  and  water. 

d  Jer.  xxvi.  15.  But  know  ye  for  certain,  that  if  ye  put  me  to 
death,  ye  shall  surely  bring  innocent  blood  upon  yourselves,  and 
upon  this  city,  and  upon  the  inhabitants  thereof:  for  of  a  truth  the 
Lord  hath  sent  me  unto  you,  to  speak  all  these  words  in  your  ears, 
v.  16.  Then  said  the  princes,  and  all  the  people  unto  the  priests,  and 
to  the  prophets,  This  man  is  not  worthy  to  die  :  for  he  hath  spoken 
to  us  in  the  name  of  the  Lord  our  God.  Acts  xxiii.  12.  And  when 
it  was  day,  certain  of  the  Jews  banded  together,  and  bound  them- 
selves under  a  curse,  saying,  That  they  would  neither  eat  nor  drink 
till  they  had  killed  Paul,  v.  16.  And  when  Paul's  sister's  son  heard 
of  their  lying  in  wait,  he  went  and  entered  into  the  castle,  and  told 
Paul.  v.  17.  Then  Paul  called  one  of  the  centurions  unto  him,  and 
said,  Bring  this  young  man  unto  the  chief  captain :  for  he  hath  a  cer- 
tain thing  to  tell  him.  v.  21.  But  do  not  thou  yield  unto  them :  for 
there  lie  in  wait  for  him  of  them  more  than  forty  men,  which  have 
bound  themselves  with  an  oath,  that  they  will  neither  eat  nor  drink 
till  they  have  killed  him :  and  now  are  they  ready,  looking  for  a 
promise  from  thee.  v.  27.  This  man  was  taken  of  the  Jews,  and 
should  have  been  killed  of  them:  then  came  I  with  an  army,  and 
rescued  him,  having  understood  that  he  was  a  Roman. 

e  Eph.  iv.  26.  Be  ye  angry,  and  sin  not :  let  not  the  sun  go  down 
upon  your  wrath :  v.  27.  Neither  give  place  to  the  devil. 

/  2  Sam.  ii.  22.  And  Abner  said  again  to  Asahel,  Turn  thee  aside 
from  following  me;- wherefore  should  I  smite  thee  to  the  ground? 


3 1 6  The  Larger  Catechism. 

temptations,^  and  praclices,  which  tend  to  the 
unjust  taking  away  the  life  of  any  \h  by  just  de- 
fence thereof  against  violence;/  patient  bearing 
of  the  hand  of  God  \k  quietness  of  mind,/  cheer- 

Deut.  xxii.  8.  When  thou  buildesta  new  house,  then  thou  shalt  make 
a  battlement  for  thy  roof,  that  thou  bring  not  blood  upon  thine 
house,  it  any  man  fall  from  thence. 

g  Mat.  iv.  6.  And  saith  unto  him,  If  thou  be  the  Son  of  God, 
cast  thyself  down  :—v.  7.  Jesus  said  unto  him,  It  is  written  again, 
Thou  shalt  not  tempt  the  Lord  thy  God.  Prow  i.  10.  My  son,  if 
sinners  entice  thee,  consent  thou  not.  v.  11.  If  they  say,  Come 
with  us,  let  us  lay  wait  for  blood,  let  us  lurk  privily  for  the  innocent 
•without  cause:  v.  15.  My  son,  walk  not  thou  in  the  way  with  them; 
refrain  thy  foot  from  their  path.  v.  16.  For  their  feet  run  to  evil> 
and  make  haste  to  shed  blood. 

h  1  Sam.  xxiv.  12.  The  Lord  judge  between  me  and  thee,  and 
the  Lord  avenge  me  of  thee ;  but  mine  hand  shall  not  be  upon  thee. 
1  Sam  xxvi.  9.  And  David  said  to  Abishai, destroy  him  not:  for  who 
can  stretch  forth  his  hand  against  the  Lord's  anointed,  and  be  guilt- 
less? v.  10.  David  said  furthermore,  As  the  Lord  liveth,  the  Lord 
shall  smite  him,  or  his  day  shall  come  to  die,  or  he  shall  descend  into 
battle  and  perish,  v.  11.  The  Lord  forbid  that  1  should  stretch  forth 
mine  hand  against  the  Lord's  anointed. — Gen.  xxxvii.  21.  And 
Reuben  heard  it,  and  he  delivered  him  out  of  their  hands:  and  said, 
Let  us  not  kill  him.  v.  22.  And  Reuben  said  unto  them,  Shed  no 
blood,  but  cast  him  into  this  pit  that  is  in  the  wilderness,  and  lay  no 
hand  upon  him-,  that  he  might  rid  him  out  of  their  hands,  to  deliver 
him  to  his  father  again. 

i  Pc-al.  lxxxii.  4..  Deliver  the  poor  and  needy:  rid  them  out  of 
the  hand  of  the  wicked.  Prov.  xxiv.  1 1.  If  thou  forbear  to  drliver 
them  that  are  drawn  unto  death,  and  those  that  are  ready  to  be  slain  : 
v.  12.  If  thou  sayest,  Behold,  we  knew  it  not:  doth  not  he  that  pon- 
dereth  the  heart  consider  it?  and  he  that  keepcth  thy  soul,  doth  not 
he  know  it?  and  shall  not  he  render  to  every  man  according  to  hie 
works  ?  1  Sam.  xiv.  45.  And  the  people  said  unto  Saul,  Shall  Jona- 
than die,  who  hath  wrought  this  great  salvation  in  Israel?  God  for- 
bid :  as  the  Lord  liveth,  there  shall  not  one  hair  of  his  head  fall  to 
the  ground:  for  he  hath  wrought  with  God  this  day.  So  the  people 
rescued  Jonathan,  that  he  died  not. 

k  James  v.  7.  Be  patient  therefore,  brethren,  unto  the  coming  of 
the  Lord.  Behold,  the  husbandman  waiteth  for  the  precious  fruit  of 
the  earth,  and  hath  long  patience  for  it,  until  he  receive  the  early 
and  latter  rain.  v.  8.  Be  ye  also  patient:  stablish  your  hearts  :  for 
the  coming  of  the  Lord  draweth  nigh.  v.  9.  Grudge  not  one  against 
another,  brethren,  lest  ye  be  condemned :  behold  the  judge   standeth 


*£hz  Larger  Catechism.  j  i  y 

fulness  of  spirit  ;;w  a  sober  use  of  meat,«  drinks 
physic,^  sleep, a   labour,r  and  recreations  ;s   by 


before  the  door.  v.  10.  Take,  my  brethren,  the  prophets,  who  have 
spoken  in  the  name  of  the  Lord,  for  an  example  of  suffering  afflic- 
tion, and  of  patience,  v.  If.  Behold,  we  count  them  happy  which 
endure.  Ye  have  heard  of  the  patience  of  Job,  and  have  seen  the  end 
of  the  Lord ;  that  the  Lord  is  very  pitiful  and  of  tender  mercy.  Heb. 
xii.  9.  Furthermore,  we  have  had  fathers  of  our  flesh,  which  cor- 
rected us,  and  we  gave  them  reverence :  shall  we  not  much  rather 
be  in  subjection  unto  the  Father  of  spirits,  and  live? 

/  1  Thess.  iv.  11.  And  that  ye  study  to  be  quiet,  and  to  do  your 
own  business,  and  to  work  with  your  own  hands,  as  we  commanded 
you.  1  Peter  iii.  3.  Whose  adorning,  let  it  not  be  that  outward 
adorning, — v.  4.  But  let  it  be  the  hidden  man  of  the  heart,  in  that 
which  is  not  corruptible,  even  the  ornament  of  a  meek  and  quiet 
spirit,  which  is  in  the  sight  of  God  of  great  price.  Psal.  xxxvii.  8. 
Cease  from  anger,  and  forsake  wrath:  fret  not  thyself  in  any 
wise  to  do  evil.  v.  9.  For  evil  doers  shall  be  cut  off:  but  those  that 
wait  upon  the  Lord,  they  shall  inherit  the  earth,  v.  10.  For  yet  a 
little  while  and  the  wicked  shall  not  be:  yea,  thou  shalt  diligently 
consider  his  place,  and  it  shall  not  be.  v.  1 1 .  But  the  meek  shall 
inherit  the  earth ;  and  shall  delight  themselves  in  the  abundance  of 
peace. 

m  Prov.  xvii.  22.  A  merry  heart  doth  good  like  a  medicine;  but 
a  broken  spirit  drieth  the  bones. 

n  Prov.  xxv.  16.  Hast  thou  found  honey?  eat  so  much  as  is  suf- 
ficient for  thee,  lest  thou  be  filled  therewith,  and  vomit  it.  v.  27. 
It  is  not  good  to  eat  much  honey. — 

0  1  Tim.  v.  23.  Drink  no  longer  water,  but  use  a  little  wine  for 
thy  stomach!s  sake,  and  thine  often  infirmities. 

Jt  Isa.  xxxviii.2:.  For  Isaiah  had  said,  Let  them  take  a  lump  of 
figs,  and  lay  it  for  a  plaister  upon  the  boil,  and  he  shall  recover. 

q  Psal.  exxvii.  2.  It  is  vain  for  you  to  rise  up  early,  to  sit  up  late, 
to  eat  the  bread  of  sorrows  ;  for  so  he  giveth  his  beloved  sleep, 

r  Eccl.  v.  12.  The  sleep  of  a  labouring  man  is  sweet,  whether  he 
eat  little  or  much  :  but  the  abundance  of  the  rich  will  not  suffer  him 
to  sleep.  2  Thess.  iii.  10.  For  even  when  we  were  with  you,  this  we 
commanded  you,  That  if  any  would  not  work,  neither  should  he 
eat.  v.  12.  Now  them  that  are  such  we  command,  and  exhort  by 
our  Lord  Jesus  Christ,  that  with  quietness  they  work,  and  eat  their 
own  bread.  Prov.  xvi.  26.  He  that  laboureth,  laboureth  for  him- 
self; for  his  mouth  craveth  it  of  him. 

j  Eccl.  iii.  4.  A  time  to  weep,  and  a  time  to  laugh:  a  time  to 
rnourn,  and  a  time  to  dance,  v.  it.  He  hath  made  every  thing 
beautiful  in  his  time  1  also  he  hath  set  the  world  in  their  heart, 


318  T/je  Larger  Catechism. 

charitable  thoughts,/  love,-:'  com  passion,  w  meek- 
ness, gentleness,  kindness  ;x  peaceable,^  mild  and 
courteous  speeches  and  behaviour; a  forbearance, 

t  1  Sam.  xix.  4.  And  Jonathan  spake  gm>d  of  David  unto  Saul 
his  father,  and  said  unto  him,  Let  not  the  king  sin  against  his  ser- 
vant,— v.  5.  For  he  did  put  his  life  in  hjs  hand,  and  slew  the  Phi- 
listine, and  the  Lord  wrought  a  great  salvation  lor  all  Israel :  thou 
sawest  it,  and  didst  rejoice;  wherefore  then  wilt  thou  sin  against  in- 
nocent blood,  to  slay  David  without  3  cause?  1  Sam.  xxii.  13.  And 
Saul  said  unto  him,  Why  have  ye  conspired  against  me,  thou  and  the 
son  of  Jesse,  in  that  thou  ha^t  given  him  bread,  and  a  sword? — v.  14. 
Then  Ahimelech  answered  the  king,  and  said,  And  who  is  so  faith- 
ful among  all  thy  servants  as  David,  which  is  the  king's  son-in-law., 
and  goethat  thy  bidding,  and  is  honourable  in  thine  house? 

<v  Rom.  xiii.  10.  Love  worketh  no  ill  to  his  neighbour;  there- 
fore love  is  the  fulfilling  of  the  law. 

to  Luke  x.  33.  But  a  certain  Samaritan,  as  he  journeyed,  came 
where  he  was :  and  when  he  saw  him,  he  had  compassion  on  him, 
v.  34.  And  went  to  him,  and  bound  up  bis  wounds,  pouring  in  oil 
and  wine,  and  set  him  on  his  own  beast,  and  brought  him  to  au  inn, 
and  took  care  of  him. 

.t  Col.  iii.  iz.  Put  on  therefore  (as  the  elect  of  God,  holy  and  ber 
loved)  bowels  of  mercies,  kindness,  humbleness  of  mind,  meekness, 
lono -suffering:  v.  13.  Forbearing  one  another,  and  forgiving  one 
another ;  if  any  man  have  a  quarrel  against  any  :  even  as  Christ  for- 
gave vou,  so  also  do  ye. 

y  James  iii.  17.  But  the  wisdom  that  is  from  above,  is  first  pure, 
then  peaceable,  gentle,  and  easy  to  be  intreated,  full  of  mercy  and 
good  fruits,  without  partiality,  and  without  hypocrisy, 

a  1  Peter  iii.  8.  Finally,  be  ye  all  of  one  mind,  having  compas- 
sion one  of  another,  love  as  brethren,  be  pitiful,  be  courteous:  v.  9. 
Not  rendering  evil  for  evil,  or  railing  for  railing :  but  contrariwise, 
blessing  ;  knowing  that  ye  are  thereunto  called,  that  ye  should  inhe- 
rit a  blessing,  v.  10.  For  he  that  will  love  life,  and  see  good  days, 
let  him  refrain  his  tongue  from  evil,  and  his  lips  that  they  speak  no 
guile,  v.  1 1.  Let  him  eschew  evil,  and  do  good:  let  him  seek  peace, 
and  ensue  it.  Prov.  xv.  1.  A  soft  answer  turneth  away  wrath:  but 
grievous  words  stir  up  anger.  Judges  viii.  1.  And  the  men  of  Ephra- 
im  said  unto  him,  Why  hast  thou  served  us  thus,  that  thou  calledst  us 
not  when  thou  wentest  to  6ght  with  the  Midianites?  and  they  did 
chide  with  him  sharply,  v.  2.  And  he  said  unto  them,  What  have 
]  done  now  in  comparison  ot  you  ?  is  not  the  gleaning  of  the  grapes 
of  Ephraim  better  than  the  vintage  of  Abiezer?  v.  5.  God  hath 
delivered  into  your  hands  the  princes  of  Midian,  Oreb  and  Zceb: 
and  what  was  I  able  to  do  in  comparison  of  you?  Then  their  anget 
was  abated  toward  him,  when  he  hail  said  that. 


'The  Larger  Catechism.  319 

readiness  to  be  reconciled,  patient  bearing  and 
forgiving  of  injuries,  and  requiting  good  for  evil  ;a 
comforting  and  succouring  the  distressed,  and 
protecting  and  defending  the  innocent.^ 

Q.  136.  What  are  the  sins  forbidden  in  the  sixth 
commandment  ? 

A.  The  sins  forbidden  in  the  sixth  command- 
ment are,  all  taking  away  the  life  of  ourselves,*: 
or  of  others,^  except  in  case  of  public  justice,^ 
lawful  war;/" or  necessary  defence  ;g  the  neglect- 

a  Mat.  v.  24.  Leave  there  thy  gift  before  the  altar,  and  go  thy 
way  j  first  be  reconciled  to  thy  brother,  and  then  come  and  offer  thy 
gift.  Eph.  iv.  2.  With  all  lowliness  and  meekness,  with  long-suf- 
fering, forbearing  one  another  in  love.  v.  32.  And  be  ye  kind  one 
to  another,  tender-hearted,  forgiving  one  another,  even  as  God  for 
Christ's  sake  hath  forgiven  you.  Rom.  xii.  17.  Recompense  to  no 
man  evil  for  evil.  v.  20.  Therefore,  if  thine  enemy  hunger,  feed 
him 3  if  he  thirst,  give  him  drink;  for  in  so  doing  thou  shalt  heap 
coals  of  fire  on  his  head.  v.  21.  Be  not  overcome  of  evil,  but  over- 
come evil  with  good. 

b  1  Thess.  v.  14.  Now  we  exhort  you,  brethren,  warn  them  that 
arc  unruly,  comfort  the  feeble-minded,  support  the  weak,  be  patient 
toward  ail  men.  Job  xxxi.  19.  If  I  have,  seen  any  perish  for  want 
of  clothing,  or  any  poor  without  covering:  v.  20.  If  his  loins  have 
not  blessed  me,  and  if  he  were  not  warmed  with  the  fleece  of  my 
sheep.  Mat.  xxv.  35.  For  I  was  an  hungred  and  ye  gave  me  meat : 
I  was  thirsty,  and  ye  gave  me  drink :  I  was  a  stranger,  and  ye  took 
me  in  :  v.  36.  Naked,  and  ye  clothed  me  :  I  was  sick,  and  ye  visited 
me:  I  was  in  prison,  and  ye  came  unto  me.  Prov.  xxxi.  8.  Open 
thy  mouth  for  the  dumb  in  the  cause  of  all  such  as  are  appointed  to 
destruction,  v.  9.  Open  thy  mouth,  judge  righteously,  and  plead 
the  cause  of  the  poor  and  needy. 

136.  c  Acts  xvi.  28.  But  Paul  cried  with  a  loud  voice,  saying, 
Do  thyself  no  harm  ;  for  we  are  all  here. 

d  Gen.  ix.  6.  Whoso  sheddeth  man's  blood,  by  man  shall  his 
blood  be  shed  :  for  in  the  image  of  God  made  he  man. 

e  Numb.  xxxv.  31.  Moreover,  ye  shall  take  no  satisfaction  for 
the  life  of  a  murderer,  which  is  guilty  of  death ;  but  he  shall  be  surely 
put  to  death,  v.  33.  So  ye  shall  not  pollute  the  land  wherein  ye  are  : 
for  blood  it  defileth  the  land  :  and  the  land  cannot  be  cleansed  of  the 
blood  that  is  shed  therein,  but  by  the  blood  of  him  that  shed  it. 

f  Jer.  xlviii.  10.  Cursed  be  he  that  doth  the  work  of  the  Lord  de- 
ceitfully, and  cursed  be  he  that  keepeth  back  his  sword  from  blood. 
Deut.  chap.  xx.  throughout,     v.  1.  When  thou  goest  out  to  battle 


J20  7/je  Larger  Catechism. 

ing  or  withdrawing  the  lawful  and  necessary 
means  of  preservation  of  life  \h  sinful  anger,/ 
hatred,^  envy,/  desire  of  revenge  \m  all  exces- 
sive passions,;?  distracting  cares  \o  immoderate  use 

against  thine  enemies,  and  seest  horses  and  chariots,  and  a  people 
more  than  tt.ou,  be  not  afraid  of  them  :  for  the  Lord  thy  God  is  with 
thee,  which  brought  thee  up  out  of  the  land  of  Egypt,  CsV. 

g  Exod.  xxii.  2.  If  a  thief  be  found  breaking  up,  and  be  smitten 
that  he  die,  there  shall  no  blood  be  shed  for  him.  v.  3.  If  the  sun  be 
risen  upon  him,  there  shall  be  blood  shed  for  him;  for  he  should 
make  full  restitution  :  if  he  have  nothing,  then  he  shall  be  sold  for 
his  theft. 

h  Mat.  xxv.  42.  For  I  was  an  hungred,  and  ye  gave  me  no  meat; 
I  was  thirsty,  and  ye  gave  me  no  drink:  v.  43.  I  was  a  stranger,  and 
ye  took  me  not  in:  naked,  and  ye  clothed  me  not:  sick,  and  in  pri- 
son, and  ye  visited  me  not.  James  ii.  15.  If  a  brother  or  sister  be 
naked,  and  destitute  of  daily  food;  v.  16.  And  one  of  you  say  unto 
them,  Depart  in  peace,  be  you  warmed  and  filled:  notwithstanding 
ye  give  them  not  those  things  which  are  needful  to  the  body  ;  what 
doth  it  profir  ?  Eccl.  vi.  I.  There  is  an  evil  which  I  have  seen  under 
the  sun,  and  it  is  common  among  men;  v.  2.  A  man  to  whom  God 
hath  given  riches,  wealth,  and  honour,  so  that  he  wanteth  nothing 
for  his  soul  of  all  that  he  desireth,  yet  God  giveth  him  not  power  to 
eat  thereof,  but  a  stranger  eateth  it:  this  is  vanity,  and  it  is  an  evil 
disease. 

i  Mat.  v.  22.  But  I  say  unto  you,  That  whosoever  is  angry  with 
his  brother  without  a  cause,  shall  be  in  danger  of  the  judgment:  and 
whosoever  shall  say  to  his  brother,  Raca,  shall  be  in  danger  of  the 
council:  but  whosoever  shall  say,  Thou  fool,  shall  be  in  danger  of 
hell-fire. 

k  1  John  iii.  15.  Whosoever  hateth  his  brother,  is  a  murderer: 
and  ye  know  that  nn  murderer  hath  eternal  life  abiding  in  him.  Lev. 
xix.  17.  Thou  shalt  not  hate  thy  brother  in  thine  heart:  thou  shalt 
in  any  wise  rebuke  thy  neighbour,  and  not  suffer  sin  upon  him. 

/  Prov.  xiv.  30.  A  sound  heart  is  the  life  of  the  flesh :  but  envy 
the  rottenness  of  the  bones. 

m  Rom.  xii.  19.  Dearly  beloved,  avenge  not  yourselves,  but  ra- 
ther give  place  unto  wrath:  for  it  is  written,  Vengeance  is  mine:  I 
will  repay,  saith  the  Lord. 

n  Eph.  iv.  31.  Let  ail  bitterness,  and  wrath,  and  anger,  and  cla- 
mour, and  evil-speaking,  be  put  away  from  you,  with  all  malice. 

0  Mat.  vi.  31.  Therefore  take  no  thought,  saying,  What  shall  we 
eat?  or  what  shall  we  drink  ?  or  wherewithal  shall  we  be  clothed? 
v.  34.  Take  therefore  no  thought  for  the  morrow  :  for  the  morrow 
shall  take  thought  for  the  things  of  itself;  sufficient  unto  the  day  is  the 
evil  thereof. 


'the  Larger  Catechism.  321 

of  meat,  drink,/*  labour,^  and  recreations  ;r  pro- 
voking words,.*-  oppression,/  quarrelling,^  strik- 
ing, wounding,^  and  whatsoever  else  tends  to 
the  destruction  of  the  life  of  any.* 

Q.   137.  Which  is  the  seventh  commandment  $ 

p  Luke  xxi.  34.  And  take  heed  to  yourselves,  lest  at  any  time 
your  hearts  be  overcharged  with  surfeiting,  and  drunkenness,  and 
cares  of  this  life,  and  so  that  day  come  upon  you  unawares.  Rom. 
xiii.  13.  Let  us  walk  honestly  as  in  the  day;  not  in  rioting  and 
drunkenness,  not  in  chambering  and  wantonness,  not  in  strife  and 
envying. 

q  Eccl.  xii.  12.  And  further,  by  these,  my  son,  be  admonished: 
of  making  many  books  there  is  no  end,  and  much  study  is  a  weari- 
ness of  the  flesh.  Eccl.  ii.  22.  For  what  hath  man  of  all  his  labour, 
and  of  the  vexation  of  his  heart  wherein  he  hath  laboured  under  the 
sun?  v.  23.  For  all  his  days  are  sorrows,  and  his  travail  grief;  yea, 
his  heart  taketh  not  rest  in  the  night.     This  is  also  vanitv. 

r  Isa.  v.  12.  And  the  harp  and  the  viol,  the  tabret  and  pipe,  and 
wine  are  in  their  feasts;  but  they  regard  not  the  work  of  the  Lord, 
neither  consider  the  operation  of  his  hands. 

s  Prov.  xv.  1.  A  soft  answer  turneth  away  wrath:  but  grievous 
words  stir  up  anger.  Prov.  xii.  18.  There  is  that  speaketh  like  the 
piercings  of  a  sword  :  but  the  tongue  of  the  wise  is  health. 

/  Ezek.  xviii.  18.  As  for  his  father,  because  he  cruelly  oppressed, 
spoiled  his  brother  by  violence,  and  did  that  which  is  not  good  amon<r 
his  people,  lo,  even  he  shall  die  in  his  iniquity.  Exod.  i.  14.  And  they 
made  their  lives  bitter  with  hard  bondage,  in  mortar,  and  in  brick, 
and  in  all  manner  of  service  in  the  field ;  all  their  service  wherein 
they  made  them  serve,  was  with  rigour. 

v  Gal.  v.  15.  But  if  ye  bite  and  devour  one  another,  take  heed 
that  ye  be  not  consumed  one  of  another.  Prov.  xxiii.  29.  Who  hath 
wo?  who  hath  sorrow  ?  who  hath  contentions?  who  hath  babbling? 
who  hath  wounds  without  cause? 

iu  Numb.  xxxv.  16.  And  if  he  smite  him  with  an  instrument  of 
iron,  (so  that  he  die)  he  is  a  murderer :  the  murderer  shall  surely  be 
put  to  death,  v.  1 7.  And  if  he  smite  him  with  throwing  a  stone, 
(wherewith  he  may  die)  and  he  die,  he  isa  murderer:  the  murderer 
shall  surely  be  put  to  death,  v.  18.  Or  if  he  smite  him  with  an  hand- 
weapon  of  wood,  (wherewith  he  may  die)  and  he  die,  he  is  a  mur- 
derer: the  murderer  shall  surely  be  put  to  death,  v.  21.  Or  in  en- 
mity smite  him  with  his  hand,  that  he  die :  he  that  smote  him  shall 
surely  be  put  to  death  ;  for  he  is  a  murderer ;  the  revenger  of  blood 
shall  slay  the  murderer,  when  he  meeteth  him. 

x  Exod.  xxi.  from  verse  18  to  the  end.  [Containing  laws  for 
smiters,  for  an  hurt  by  chance,  for  an  ox  that  goreth,  and  for  him 
that  is  an  occasion  of  harm.] 


3-3  I'he  Larger  Catechism. 

A.  The  seventh  commandment  is,  cthou  shaft 
not  commit  adultery  ?y 

Q.  138.  What  are  the  duties  required  in  the 
seventh  commandment  ? 

A.  The  duties  required  in  the  seventh  com- 
mandment are,  chastity  in  body,  mind,  affec- 
tions^ words/?  and  behaviour;^  and  the  preser- 
vation of  it  in  ourselves  and  others;*;  watchful- 
ness over  the  eyes  and  all  the  senses;^/  temper- 
ance/ keeping  of  chaste  company;/"  modesty  in 

-   137.  y  Exod.  xx.  14.-. 

138.  z,  1  Thess.  iv.  4.  That  every  one  of  you  should  know  how 
t-9  possess  his  vessel  in  sanclification  and  honour.  Job  xxxi.  1.  I 
made  a  covenant  with  mine  eyes;  why  then  should  I think  upon  a 
maid?  1  Cor.  vii.  34.  There  is  a  difference  also  between  a  wife  and- 
a  virgin:  the  unmarried  woman  caretli  for  the  things  of  the  Lord, 
that  she  may  be  holy,  both  in  body  and  in  spirit:  but  she  that  is-- 
married,  careth  for  the  things  of  the  world,  how  she  may  please  her 
husband. 

a  Col.  iv.  6.  Let  your  speech  be  alway  with  grace,  seasoned  with. 
i>alt,  that  ye  may  know  how  ye  ought  to  answer  every  man. 

b  1  Peter  iii.  2.  While  they  behold  your  chaste  conversation 
coupled  with  fear. 

c  1  Cor.  vii.  2.  Nevertheless,' to  avoid  fornication,  let  every  man 
have  his  own  wife,  and  let  every  woman  have  her  own  husband,  v. 
35.  And  this  I  speak  for  your  own  profit,  not  that  1  may  cast  a  snare 
upon  you,  but  tor  that  which  is  comely,  and  that  you  may  attend 
upon  the  Lord  without  distraction,  v.  36.  But  if  any  man  think  that 
he  behaveth  himself  uncomely  toward  his  virgin,  ii  she  pass  the  flower 
of  her  age,  and  need  so  require,  let  him  do  what  he  will,  he  sinneth 
not :  let  them  marry. 

d  Job  xxxi.  1 .  1  made  a  covenant  with  mine  eyes;  why  then  should 
I  think  upon  a  maid? 

e  Acts  xxiv.  24.  And  after  certain  days,  when  Felix  came  with  his 
wife  Drusilla,  which  was  a  Jewess,  he  sent  for  Paul,  and  heard  him 
concerning  the  taitli  in  Christ,  v.  25.  And  as  he  reasoned  of  righte- 
ousness, temperance,  and  judgment  to  come,  Felix  trembled. — 

f  Prov.  ii.  16.  To  deliver  thee  from  the  strange  woman,  even  from 
the  stranger  which  flattereth  with  her  words:  v.  1  ;.  Which  torsak- 
cth  the  guide  of  her  youth,  and  forgetteth  the  covenant  ot  her  God. 
v.  18.  For  her  house  inclincth  unto  death,  and  her  paths  unto  the 
dead.  v.  19.  None  that  go  unto  her,  return  again,  neither  take  they 
hold  of  the  paths  ot  life.  v.  20.  That  thou  mayest  walk  in  the  way 
of  good  men,  and  keep  the  paths  of  the  righteous. 


7%e  Larger  Catechism.  32 J 

;apparel;g  marriage  by  those  that  have  not  the 
gift  of  continency,Z>  conjugal  love,*"  and  cohabi- 
tation \k  diligent  labour  in  our  callings;/  shun- 
ning all  occasions  of  uncleanness,  and  resisting 
temptations  thereunto.;// 

0^139.  What  are  the  sins  forbidden  in  the  se- 
venth commandment  f 

A.  The  sins  forbidden  in  the  seventh  com- 
mandment, beside  the  neglect  of  the  duties  re- 
quired, n  are,  adultery,  fornication,o  rape,  incest, 

g  1  Tim.  ii.  9.  In  like  manner  also,  that  women  adorn  themselves 
in  modest  apparel,  with  shame-facedness  and  sobriety:  not  with 
broidered  hair,  or  gold,  or  pearls,  or  costly  array. 

A  1  Cor.  vii.  2.  Nevertheless,  to  avoid  fornication,  let  every  man 
have  his  own  wife,  and  let  every  woman  have  her  own  husband,  v. 
9.  But  if  they  cannot  contain,  let  them  marry:  for  it  is  better  to 
rnarry  than  to  burn. 

i  Prov.  v.  19.  Let  her  be  as  the  loving  hind,  and  pleasant  roe:  let 
her  breasts  satisfy  thee  at  all  times,  and  be  thou  ravished  always  with 
ker  love.  v.  20.  And  why  wilt  thou,  my  son,  be  ravished'  with  a 
strange  woman,  and  embrace  the  bosom  of  a  stranger? — 

k  1  Peter  iii.  7.  Likewise,  ye  husbands,  dwell  with  them  accord- 
ing to  knowledge,  giving  honour  unto  the  wife  as  unto  the  weaker 
vessel,  and  as  being  heirs  together  of  the  gi-ace  of  life;  that  your 
prayers  be  not  hindrcd. 

/  Prov.  xxxi.  11.  The  heart  of  her  husband  doth  safely  trust  in 
Iter,  so  that  he  shall  have  no  need  of  spoih  v.  2  7.  She  looketh  well 
to  the  ways  of  her  household,  and  eateth  not  the  bread  of  idleness. 
v.  28.  Her  children  arise  up,  and  call  her  blessed;  her  husband  also, 
and  he  praiseth  her. 

}:i  Prov.  v.  8.  Remove  thy  way  far  from  her,  and  come  not  nigh 
the  door  of  her  house.  Gen.  xxxix.  8.  But  he  refused,  and  said  unto  his 
master's  wile,  Behold,  my  master  wotttth  not  what  is  with  me  in 
the  house?  and  he  hath  committed  all  that  he  hath  to  my  hand.  v.  9. 
There  is  none  greater  in  this  house  than  I;  neither  hath  he  kept 
back  any  thing  from  me,  but  thee,  because  thou  art  his  wife:  how 
then  can  I  do  this  great  wickedness,  and  sin  against  God?  v.  10. 
And  it  came  to  pass  as  she  spake  to  Joseph  day  by  day,  that  he 
hearkened  not  unto  her,  to  lie  by  her,  or  to  be  with  her. 

1  39.  n  Prov.  v.  7.  Hear  me  now,  therefore,  O  ye  children,  and 
depart  not  from  the  words  of  my  mouth. 

0  Heb.  xiii.  4.  Marriage  is  honourable  in  all,  and  the  bed  undefil- 
ed :  but  whoremongers  and  adulterers  God  will  judge.  Gal.  v.  19. 
Now  the  works  of  the  Mesh  are  manifest,  which  are  these,  Adultens 
fornication,  uncleanness,  lasciviousness, 


324  The  Larger  Catechism. 

p  sodomy,  and  all  unnatural  lusts \q  all  unclean 
imaginations,  thoughts,  purposes,  and  affec- 
tions ;r  all  corrupt  or  filthy  communications,  or 
listening  thereunto ;s  wanton  looks,/  impudent 
or  light  behaviour,  immodest  apparel  \v  prohibit- 

Ji  2  Sam.  xiii.  14.  Howbeit,  he  would  not  heaken  unto  her  voice  : 
but  being  stronger  than  she,  forced  her,  and  lay  with  her.  1  Cor.  v. 
I.  It  is  reported  commonly  that  there  is  fornication  among  you,  and 
such  fornication,  as  is  not  so  much  as  named  amongst  the  Gentile?, 
that  one  should  have  his  father's  wife. 

q  Rom.  i.  24.  Wherefore  God  also  gave  them  up  to  uncleanness, 
through  the  lusts  of  their  own  hearts,  to  dishonour  their  own  bodies 
between  themselves,  v.  26.  For  this  cause  God  gave  them  up  unto 
vile  affections  :  for  even  their  women  did  change  the  natural  use  un- 
to that  which  is  against  nature:  v.  27.  And  likewise  also  the  men, 
leaving  the  natural  use  of  the  women,  burned  in  their  Lust  one  to- 
ward another,  men  with  men  working  that  which  is  unseemly,  and 
receiving  in  themselves  that  recompense  of  their  error  which  was 
meet.  Lev.  xx.  15.  And  if  a  man  lie  with  a  beast,  he  shall  surely 
be  put  to  death  :  and  ye  shall  slay  the  beast,  v.  16.  And  if  a  woman 
approach  unto  any  beast  and  lie  down  thereto,  thou  shalt  kill  the 
woman  and  the  beast:  they  shall  surely  be  put  to  death ;  their  blood 
shall  be  upon  them. 

r  Mat.  v.  28.  But  I  say  unto  you,  that  whosoever  looketh  on  a 
woman  to  lust  after  her,  hath  committed  adultery  with  her  already 
in  his  heart.  Mat.  xv.  19.  For  out  of  the  heart  proceed  evil  thoughts, 
murders,  adulterie*,  fornications,  thefts,  false  witness,  blasphemies. 
Col.  iii.  5.  Mortify,  therefore,  your  members  which  are  upon  the 
earth  ;  fornication,  uncleanness,  inordinate  affection,  evil  concupi- 
5Cf  and  covetousness,  which  is  idolatry. 

s  Eph.  v.  3.  But  fornication,  and  all  uncleanness,  or  covetous- 
ness, let  it  not  be  once  named  amongst  you,  as  becometh  saints:  v. 
4.  Neither  filrhiness,  nor  foolish  talking,  nor  jesting,  which  are  not 
convenient;  but  rather  giving  of  thanks.  Prov.  vii.  5.  That  they 
may  keep  thee  from  the  strange  woman,  from  the  stranger  which 
tlattereth  with  her  words,  v.  21.  With  her  much  fair  speech  six- 
caused  him  to  yield,  with  the  flattering  ot  her  lips  she  forced  him. 
v.  22.  He  goeth  after  her  straightway,  as  an  ox  goeth  to  the  slaugh- 
ter, or  as  a  fool  to  the  correction  of  the  stocks. 

t  Jsa.  iii.  16.  Moreover,  the  Lord  sakh,  Because  the  daughters  of 
"Zion  are  haughty,  and  walk  with  stretched-forth  necks,  and  wanton 
ry(  •-.,  walking,  and  mincing;  as  they  go,  and  making  a  tinkling  with 
their  feet.  2  Pet.  ii.  14.  Having  eves  full  of  adultery,  and  that  can- 
not cease  from  sin;   beguiling  unstable  souls — 

v  Prov.  vii.  10.  And  behold,  there  met  him  a  woman  with  the  at- 
tire of  an  harlot,  and  subtle  of  heart,  v.  13.  So  she  caught  him  and 
kissed  him,  and  with  an  impudent  face  said  unto  him. — 


The  Larger  Catechism,  325 

ing  of  lawful,t£;  and  dispensing  with  unlawful 
marriages;*  allowing,  tolerating,  keeping  of 
stews,  and  resorting  to  them;jy  intangling  vows 
of  single  life,s  undue  delay  of  marriage ; a  hav- 

ra  1  Tim.  iv.  3.  Forbidding  to  marry,  and  commanding  to  ab- 
stain from  meats,  which  God  hath  created  to  be  received  with  thanks- 
giving of  them  which  believe  and  know  the  truth. 

x  Lev.  xviii.  from  verse  i  to  ai.  Mark  vi.  i8.  For  John  had  said 
unto  Herod,  It  is  not  lawful  for  thee  to  have  thy  brother's  wife. 
Mai.  ii.  11.  Judah  hath  dealt  treacherously,  and  an  abomination  is 
committed  in  Israel  and  in  Jerusalem:  for  Judah  hath  profaned  the 
holiness  of  the  Lord  which  he  loved,  and  hath  married  the  daughter 
of  a  strange  god.  v.  12.  The  Lord  will  cut  off  the  man  that  doth 
this :  the  master  and  the  scholar  out  of  the  tabernacles  of  Jacob,  and 
him  that  offereth  an  offering  unto  the  Lord  of  hosts. 

y  1  Kings  xv.  12.  And  he  took  away  the  Sodomites  out  of  the 
land,  and  removed  all  the  idols  that  his  fathers  had  made.  2  Kings 
xxiii.  7.  And  he  brake  down  the  houses  of  the  Sodomites  that  were 
by  the  house  of  the  Lord,  where  the  women  wove  hangings  for  the 
grove.  Deut.  xxiii.  17.  There  shall  be  no  whore  of  the  daughters 
of  Israel,  nor  a  Sodomite  of  the  sons  of  Israel,  v.  18.  Thou  shalt 
•not  bring  the  hire  of  a  whore,  or  the  price  of  a  dog  into  the  house  oi 
the  Lord  thy  God  for  any  vow  :  for  even  both  these  are  abomination 
unto  the  Lord  thy  God.  Lev.  xix.  29.  Do  not  prostitute  thy  daugh- 
ter, to  cause  her  to  be  a  whore ;  lest  the  land  fall  to  whoredom,  and  the 
land  become  full  of  wickedness.  Jer.  v.  7.  How  shall  I  pardon  thee 
for  this  ?  thy  children  have  forsaken  me,  and  sworn  by  them  that 
are  no  gods:  when  I  had  fed  them  to  the  full,  they  then  committed 
adultery,  and  assembled  themselves  by  troops  in  the  harlots'  houses. 
Prov.  vii.  24.  Hearken  unto  me  now  therefore,  O  ye  children,  and 
attend  to  the  words  of  my  mouth,  v.  25.  Let  not  thine  heart  de- 
cline to  her  ways,  go  not  astray  in  her  paths,  v.  26.  For  she  hath 
cast  down  many  wounded :  yea,  many  strong  men  have  been  slain 
by  her.  v.  27.  Her  house  is  the  way  to  hell,  going  down  to  the 
chambers  of  death. 

%  Mat.  xix.  10.  His  disciples  say  unto  him,  If  the  case  of  the  man 
be  so  with  his  wife,  it  is  not  good  to  marry,  v.  n.  But  he  said  unto 
them,  All  men  cannot  receive  this  saying,  save  they  to  whom  it  is 
given. 

a  1  Cor.  vii.  7.  For  I  would  that  all  men  were  even  as  I  myself: 
but  every  man  hath  his  proper  gift  of  God,  one  after  this  manner; 
and  another  after  that.  v.  8.  I  say  therefore  to  the  unmarried  and 
widows,  It  is  good  for  them  if  they  abide  even  as  I.  v.  9.  But  it 
they  cannot  contain,  let  them  marry :  for  it  is  better  to  marry  than 
to  burn.  Gen.  xxxviii.  26.  And  Judah  acknowledged  them,  and 
said,  She  hath  been  more  righteous  than  I;  because  that  I  gave  her 
not  to  Shelah  my  son ;  and  he  knew  her  again  no  more. 


326  7/3*  Larger  Catechism. 

ins;  more  wives  or  husbands  than  one  at  the  same 
time;^  unjust  divorce,*:  or  desertion  ;a  idleness, 
gluttonv,  drunkenness,*?  unchaste  company;/ 
lascivious  songs,  books,  pictures,  dancings^ 
stage-plays  ;g    and    all    other    provocations    to, 

b  Mai.  ii.  14..  Yet  ve  say,  Wherefore?  Bpcause  the  Lord  hath 
been  witness  between  thee  and  the  wii<-  of  thy  youth,  against  whom 
thou  hast  dealt  treacherously :  yet  is  she  thy  companion,  and  the 
wife  of  thy  covenant,  v.  1  5.  And  did  not  he  make  ones  yet  had  he 
the  residue  of  the  Spirit:  and  wherefore  one?  that  he  might  seek  a 
godly  seed;  therefore  take  heed  to  your  spirit,  and  let  none  deal 
treacherously  against  the  wife  of  his  youth.  Mat.  xix.  t;.  And  said, 
for  this  cause  shall  a  man  leave  father  and  mother,  and  shall  cleave 
to  his  wife  :  and  they  twain  shall  be  one  flesh. 

c  MaLii.  16.  For  the  Lord  the  God  of  Israel  saith,  that  he  hatetU 
putting  away  :  for  one  covereth  violence  with  his  garment,  saith  the 
Lord  of  hosts:  therefore  take  heed  to  your  spirk,  that  you  deal  not 
treacherously.  Mat.  v.  32.  But  I  say  unto  you,  that  whosoever 
shall  put  awav  his  wife,  saving  tor  the  cause  of  fornication,  causeth 
her  to  commit  adultery:  and  whosoever  shall  marry  her  that  is  di- 
vorced, committeth  adultery. 

(I  1  Cor.  vii.  iz.  But  to  the  rest  speak  I,  not  the  Lord,  If  any 
brother  hath  a  wife  that  believeth  not,  and  «he  be  pleased  to  dwell  with 
him,  let  him  not  put  her  away.  v.  1  3.  And  the  woman  which  hath 
an  husband  that  believeth  not,  and  if  he  be  pleased  to  dwell  with  her, 
let  her  not  leave  him. 

e  Ezek.  xvi.  49.  Behold,  this  was  the  iniquity  of  thy  sister  Sodom, 
Pride,  fulness  of  bread,  and  abundance  of  idleness  was  in  her  and  in 
her  daughters,  neither  did  she  strengthen  the  bands  of  the  poor  and 
needy.  Prov.  xxiii.  30.  They  that  tarry  long  at  the  wine,  they  that 
go  to  seek  mixt  wine.  v.  31.  Look  not  thou  upon  the  wine  when 
it  is  red,  when  it  giveth  his  colour  in  the  cup,  when  it  moveth  itself 
aright,  v.  32.  At  the  last  it  biteth  like  a  serpent,  and  stingeth  like 
an  adder,  v.  33.  Thine  eyes  shall  behold  strange  women,  and  thine 
heart  shall  utter  perverse  things. 

f  Gen.  xxxix.  10.  And  it  came  to  pass,  as  she  spake  to  Joseph, 
ciav  by  dav,  that  he  hearkened  not  unto  her,  to  lie  by  her,  or  to  be 
with  her.  Prov.  v.  8.  Remove  thy  way  far  from  her,  and  come  not 
nigh  the  door  of  her  house. 

£  Eph.  v.  4.  Neither  filthiness,  nor  foolish  talking,  nor  jesting, 
which  are  not  convenient:  but  rather  giving  of  thanks.  E\ek.  xxiii. 
7  1.  And  that  she  encreased  her  whoredoms  :  for  when  she  saw  men 
pourtrayed  upon  the  wall,  the  images  of  the  Chaldeans  pourtrayed 
with  vermilion,  v.  j  :;.  Girded  with  girdles  upon  their  loins,  exceed- 
ing in  dyed  attire  upon  their  heads,  all  of  them  prince;  to  look  10, 
the  manner  of  the  Babylonians  of  Chaldea,  the  land  of  thei- 


7*he  Larger  Catechism.  327 

or  acls  of,  uncleanness  either  in  ourselves  or 
others.>6 

Q^  140.   Which  is  the  eighth  commandment? 

A.  The  eighth  commandment  is,  $hou  shalt 
not  steal. 1 

Q^  141.  What  are  the  duties  required  in  the 
eighth  commandment? 

A.  The  duties  required  in  the  eighth  com- 
mandment are,   truth,  faithfulness,  and  justice- 


tivity :  v.  16.  And  as  soon  as  she  saw  them  with  her  eyes,  she  doted- 
upon  them,  and  sent  messengers  unto  them  into  Chaldea.  Isa-xxiii. 
15.  And  it  shall  come  to  pass  in  that  day,  that  Tyre  shall  be  forgot- 
ten seventy  years,  according  to  the  days  of  one  king:  after  the  end 
of  seventy  years  shall  Tyre  sing  as  an  harlot,  v.  16.  Take  an  harp, 
go  about  the  city,  thou  harlot  that  hast  been  forgotten,  make  sweet 
melody,  sing  many  songs,  that  thou  mayest  be  remembered,  v.  1 7. 
And  it  shall  come  to  pass  after  the  end  of  seventy  years,  that  the 
Lord  will  visit  Tyre,  and  she  shall  turn  to  her  hire,  and  shall  commit 
fornication  with  all  the  kingdoms  of  the  world  upon  the  face  of  the 
earth.  Isa.  iii.  16.  Moreover,  the  Lord  saith,  Because  the  daughters 
of  Zion  are  haughty,  and  walk  with  stretched  forth  necks,  and  wan- 
ton eyes,  walking,  and  mincing  as  they  go,  and  making  a  tinkling 
with  their  feet. — Mark  vi.  22.  And  when  the  daughter  of  the  said 
Herodias  came  in,  and  danced,  and  pleased  Herod,  and  them  that  sat 
with  him,  the  king  said  unto  the  damsel,  Ask  of  me  whatsoever  thou 
wilt,  and  f  will  give  it  thee.  Rom.  xiii.  13.  Let  us  walk  honestly  as 
in  the  day;  not  in  rioting  and  drunkenness,  not  in  chambering  and 
wantonness,  not  in  strife  and  envying.  1  Peter  iv.  3.  For  the  time 
past  of  our  life  may  suffice  us  to  have  wrought  the  will  of  the  Gen- 
tiles, when  we  walked  in  lasciviousness,  lusts,  excess  of  wine,  revel- 
lings,  banquetings,  and  abominable  idolatries. 

//  2  Kings  ix.  30.  And  when  Jehu  was  come  to  Jezreel,  Jezebel 
heard  of  U,  and  she  painted  her  face,  and  tired  her  hair,  and  looked 
out  at  a  window.  Compared  with  Jer.  iv.  30.  And  when  thou  art 
spoiled,  what  wilt  thou  do  ?  Though  thou  clothest  thyself  with  crim- 
son, though  thou  deckest  thee  with  ornaments  of  gold,  though  thou 
rentest  thy  face  with  painting,  in  vain  shalt  thou  make  thyself  fair, 
thy  lovers  will  despise  thee,  they  will  seek  thy  life.  And  with  Ez,ek. 
xxiii.  40.  And  furthermore,  that  ye  have  sent  for  men  to  come  from 
far,  unto  whom  a  messenger  was  sent,  and  lo,  they  came;  for  whom 
thou  didst  wash  thyself,  paiutedst  thy  eyes,  and  deckedst  thyself  with 
ornaments. 

14.0.  i  Exod.  xx.  15. 


328  The  Larger  Catechism. 

in  contracts  and  commerce  between  man  and 
man,/£  rendering  to  every  one  his  due;/  restitu- 
tion of  goods  unlawfully  detained  from  the  right 
owners  thereof  ;m  giving  and  lending  freely,  ac- 
cording to  our  abilities,  and  the  necessities  of 
others;;*  moderation  of  our  judgments,  wills,  and 

141.  k  Psal.  xv.  2.  He  that  valketh  uprightly,  and  worketh  righte- 
ousness, and  speaketh  the  truth  in  his  heart,  v.  4. — He  that  swear- 
cth  to  his  own  hurt,  and  changeth  not.  Zech.  vii.  4.  Then  came 
the  word  of  the  Lord  of  hosts  unto  me,  saying,  v.  10.  And  oppress 
not  the  widow,  nor  the  fatherless,  the  stranger,  nor  the  poor,  and  let 
none  of  you  imagine  evil  against  his  brother  in  your  heart.  Zech. 
viii.  16.  These  are  the  things  that  ye  shall  do,  Speak  ye  every  man 
the  truth  to  his  neighbour:  execute  the  judgment  of  truth  and  peace 
in  your  gates,  v.  1  7.  And  let  none  of  you  imagine  evil  in  your 
hearts  against  his  neighbour,  and  love  no  false  oath  :  for  all  these  are 
things  that  I  hate,  saith  the  Lord. 

/  Rom.  xiii.  7.  Render  therefore  to  all  their  dues:  tribute  to 
whom  tribute  is  due,  custom  to  whom  custom,  fear  to  whom  fear, 
honour  to  whom  honour. 

m  Lev.  vi.  z.  If  a  soul  sin,  and  commit  a  trespass  against  the 
Lord,  and  lie  unto  his  neighbour  in  that  which  was  delivered  him  to 
keep,  or  in  fellowship,  or  in  a  thing  taken  away  by  violence,  or  hath 
deceived  his  neighbour;  v.  3.  Or  have'  found  that  which  was  lost, 
and  iieth  concerning  it,  and  sweareth  falsely;  in  any  of  all  these  that 
a  man  doth,  sinning  therein:  v.  4.  Then  it  shall  be,  because  he  hath 
sinned  and  is  guilty,  that  he  shall  restore  that  which  he  took  violently 
awav,  or  the  thing  which  he  hath  deceitfully  gotten,  or  that  which 
was  delivered  him  to  keep,  or  the  lost  thing  which  he  found,  v.  5. 
Or  all  that  about  which  he  hath  sworn  falsely;  he  shall  even  restore 
it  in  the  principal,  and  shall  add  the  fifth  part  more  thereto,  and  give 
it  unto  him  to  whom  it  appertained,  in  the  day  of  his  trespass-oiftr- 
ing.  Compared  with  Luke  .xix.  8.  And  Zaccheus  stood,  and  said 
unto  the  Lord,  Behold,  Lord,  the  half  of  my  goods  I  give  to  the  poor  : 
and  if  I  have  taken  auv  thing  from  any  man  by  false  accusation,  I 
restore  him  fourfold. 

«  Luke  vi.  30.  Give  to  every  man  that  asketh  of  thee:  ami  of 
him  that  taketh  away  thy  goods,  ask  them  not  again,  v.  38.  Give, 
and  it  shall  be  given  unto  you:  good  measure,  pressed  down,  and 
shaken  together,  and  running  over,  shall  men  give  into  your  bosom. 
For  with  the  same  measure  that  yc  mete  withal,  it  shall  be  measured 
to  you  again.  1  John  iii.  17.  But  whoso  hath  this  world's  good,  and 
seeth  his  brother  have  need,  and  shutteth  up  h*l  bowels  <>i  compas- 
sion from  him,  how  dwilleth  the  love  of  God  in  him  i  Eph.  i\ 
Let  him  that  stole,  steal  no  more ;  but  rather  let  him  labour,  working 


'The  Larger  Catechism.  329 

"affections  concerning  worldly  goods  ;<?  a  provident 
care  and  study  to  get,/>  keep,  use,  and  dispose 
these  things  which  are  necessary  and  convenient 
for  the  sustentation  of  our  nature,  and  suitable 
to  our  condition  :^  a  lawful  callings  and  dili- 


with  his  hands  the  thing  which  is  good,  that  he  may  have  to  give  to 
him  that  needeth.  Gal.  vi.  10.  As  we  have  therefore  opportunity, 
let  us  do  good  unto  all  men,  especially  unto  them  who  are  of  the 
household  of  faith. 

0  1  Tim.  vi.  6.  But  godliness  with  contentment  is  great  gain.  v. 
7.  For  we  brought  nothing  into  this  world,  and  it  is  certain  we  can 
carry  nothing  out.  v.  8.  And  having  food  and  raiment,  let  us  be 
therewith  content,  v.  9.  But  they  that  will  be  rich,  fall  into  temp- 
tation and  a  snare,  and  into  many  foolish  and  hurtful  lusts,  which 
drown  men  in  destruction  and  perdition.  Gal.  vi.  14.  But  God  for- 
bid that  I  should  glory,  save  in  the  cross  of  our  Lord  Jesus  Christ, 
by  whom  the  world  is  crucified  unto  me,  and  I  unto  the  world. 

/  1  Tim.  v.  8.  But  if  any  provide  not  for  his  own,  and  especially 
for  those  of  his  own  house,  he  hath  denied  the  faith,  and  is  worse 
thae  an  infidel. 

q  Prov.  xxvii.  from  verse  23  to  the  end.  Be  thou  diligent  to  know 
the  state  of  thy  flocks,  and  look  well  to  thy  herds,  v.  24.  For  riches 
are  not  for  ever. — Eccl.  ii.  24.  There  is  nothing  better  for  a  man, 
than  that  he  should  eat  and  drink,  and  that  he  should  make  his  soul 
enjoy  good  in  his  labour.  This  also  I  saw,  that  it  was  from  the  hand 
of  God.  Eccl.  hi.  12.  I  know  that  there  is  no  good  in  them,  but 
for  a  man  to  rejoice,  and  do  to  good  in  his  life.  v.  13.  And  also, 
that  every  man  should  eat  and  drink,  and  enjoy  the  good  of  all  his 
labour,  it  is  the  gift  of  God.  1  Tim.  vi.  17.  Charge  them  that  are 
rich  in  this  world,  that  they  be  not  high  minded,  nor  trust  in  un- 
certain riches,  but  in  the  living  God,  who  giveth  us  richly  all  things 
to  enjoy:  v.  18.  That  they  do  good,  that  they  be  rich  in  good 
works,  ready  to  distribute,  willing  to  communicate.  La.  xxxviii.  1. 
In  those  days  was  Hezeikiah  sick  unto  death  :  and  Isaiah  the  prophet, 
the  son  of  Amos,  came  unto  him,  and  said  unto  him,  Thus  saith  the 
Lord,  Set  thine  house  in  order :  for  thou  shalt  die,  and  not  live. 
Mat.  xi.  8. — Behold,  they  that  wear  soft  clothing  are  in  kings* 
houses. 

r  1  Cor.  vii.  20.  Let  every  man  abide  in  the  same  calling  wherein 
he  was  called.  Gen.  ii.  15.  And  the  Lord  God  took  the  man,  and 
put  him  into  the  garden  of  Eden,  to  dress  it  and  to  keep  it.  Gen.  Hi. 
19.  In  the  sweat  of  thy  face  shalt  thou  eat  bread,  till  thou  return  unto 
the  ground. — 

2T 


33°  The  Larger  Catechism. 

gence  in  it  ;s  frugality ;/  avoiding  unnecessary 
lawsuits,^  and  suretiship,  or  other  like  engage- 
ments ;w  and  an  endeavour  by  all  just  and  law- 
ful means  to  procure,  preserve,  and  further  the 
wealth  and  outward  estate  of  others,  as  well  as 
our  own.* 


s  Eph.  iv.  28.  Let  him  that  stole,  steal  no  more:  but  rather  let 
him  labour,  working  with  his  hands  the  thing  which  is  good,  that 
he  may  have  to  give  him  that  needeth.  Prov.  x.  4.  He  becometb. 
poor  that  dealeth  with  a  slack  hand :  but  the  hand  of  the  diligent 
maketh  rich. 

/  John  vi.  12.  When  they  were  filled,  he  said  unto  his  disciples, 
Gather  up  the  fragments  that  remain,  that  nothing  be  lost.  Prov. 
xxi.  20.  There  is  a  treasure  to  be  desired,  and  oil  in  the  dwelling  of 
the  wise:  but  a  foolish  man  spendeth  it  up. 

*  1  Cor.  vi.  from  verse  1  to  9.  Dare  any  of  you,  having  a  matter 
against  another,  go  to  law  before  the  unjust,  and  not  before  the  saints  ? 
&c. 

-jo  Prov.  vj.  from  verse  1  to  6.  My  son,  if  thou  be  surety  for  thy 
friend,  if  thou  hast  stricken  thy  hand  with  a  stranger,  thou  art  snar- 
ed with  the  words  of  thy  mouth,  &c.  Prov.  xi.  1  5.  He  that  is  surety 
for  a  stranger,  shall  smart  for  it :  and  he  that  hateth  suretiship,  is  sure. 

x  Lev.  xxv.  35.  And  if  thy  brother  be  waxen  poor,  and  fallen  in 
decay  with  thee;  then  thou  shalt  relieve  him :  yea,  though  he  be  a 
stranger,,  or  a  sojourner;  that  he  may  live  with  thee.  Deut.  xxii.  1. 
Thou  shalt  not  see  thy  brothers  ox,  or  his  sheep  go  astray,  and  hide 
thyself  from  them  :  thou  shalt  in  any  case  bring  them  again  unto  thy 
brother,  v.  2.  And  if  thy  brother  be  not  nigh  unto  thee,  or  if  thou 
know  him  not,  then  thou  shalt  bring  it  into  thine  own  house,  and  it 
shall  be  with  thee  until  thy  brother  seek  after  it,  and  thou  shalt  re- 
store it  to  him  again,  v.  3.  In  like  manner  shalt  thou  do  with  his 
ass,  and  so  shalt  thou  do  with  his  raiment,  and  with  all  lost  things  of 
thy  brother's,  which  he  hath  lo^t,  and  thou  hast  tound,  shalt  thou 
do  likewise  :  thou  mayest  not  hide  thyself,  v.  4.  Thou  shalt  not  see 
thy  brother's  ass  or  his  ox  fall  down  by  the  way,  and  hide  thyself 
from  them  :  thou  shalt  surely  help  him  to  lift  them  up  again.  Exod. 
xxiii.  4.  If  thou  meet  thine  enemy's  ox  or  his  ass  going  astray,  thou 
Shalt  surely  bring  it  back  to  him  'again,  v.  5.  If  thou  see  the  ass  of 
him  that  hateth  thee,  lying  under  his  burden,  and  wonldst  forbear  to 
help  him;  thou  shalt  surely  help  with  him.  Geo.  xlvii.  14.  And 
Joseph  gathered  up  all  the  money  that  was  found  in  the  land  of  Egypt, 
and  in  the  land  of  Canaan,  for  the  corn  which  they  bought :  and  Jo- 
seph brought  die  money  into  Pharaoh's  house,  v.  20.  And  Joseph 
bought  all  the  land  of  Egypt  for  Pharaoh  ;  for  the  Egyptians  sold 


x     the  Larger  Catechism.  331 

Q^  142.  What  are  the  sins  forbidden  in  the 
eighth  commandment  ? 

A.  The  sins  forbidden  in  the  eighth  command- 
ment, beside  the  neglect  of  the  duties  required,^ 
are  theft,s  robbery, #  man-stealing,^  and  receiv- 
ing any  thing  that  is  stolen  ;c  fraudulent  dealing,^/ 
false  weights  and  measures,?  removing  land- 
marks^ injustice  and  unfaithfulness  in  contracts 
between  man  and  man,g  or  in  matters  of  trust; 

every  man  his  field,  because  the  famine  prevailed  over  them  :  so  the 
land  became  Pharaoh's.  Phil.  ii.  4.  Look  not  every  man  on  his  own 
thing?,  but  every  man  also  on  the  things  of  others.  Mat.  xxii.  39. 
And  the  second  is  like  unto  it,  Thou  shalt  love  thy  neighbour  as  thy- 
self. 

142.  y  James  ii.  15.  If  a  brother  or  sister  be  naked,  and  destitute 
of  daily  food;  v.  16.  And  one  of  you  say  unto  them,  Depart  in 
peace,  be  you  warmed  and  filled  :  notwithstanding  ye  give  them  not 
those  things  which  are  needful  to  the  body ;  what  doth  it  profit  ? 
1  John  iii.  17.  But  whoso  hath  this  world's  good,  2nd  seeth  his  bro- 
ther have  need^  andshutteth  up  his  bowels  of  compassion  from  him, 
how  dwelleth  the  love  of  God  in  him  ? 

z  Eph.  iv.  28.  Let  him  that  stole,  steal  no  more :  but  rather — 

a  Psal.  lxii.  10.  Trust  not  in  oppression,  and  become  not  vain  in 
robbery — 

b  1  Tim.  i.  10.  (The  law  was  made)  for  whoremongers,  for  them 
that  defile  themselves  with  mankind,  for  men-stealers,  for  liars,  for 
perjured  persons,  and  if  there  be  any  other  thing  that  is  contrary  to 
sound  doctrine. 

c  Prov.  xxix.  24.  Whoso  is  partner  with  a  thief,  hateth  his  own 
soul:  he  heareth  cursing,  and  bewrayeth  it  not.  Psal.  1.  18.  When 
thou  sawest  a  thief,  then  thou  consentedst  with  him. — 

d  1  Thess.  iv.  6.  That  no  man  go  beyond  and  defraud  his  bro- 
ther in  any  matter :  because  that  the  Lord  is  the  avenger  of  all  such, 
as  we  also  have  forewarned  you,  and  testified. 

e  Prov.  xi.  1.  A  false  balance  is  abomination  to  the  Lord  :  but  a 
just  weight  is  his  delight.  Prov.  xx.  10.  Divers  weights,  and  divers 
measures,  both  of  them  are  alike  abomination  to  the  Lord. 

f  Deut.  xix.  14.  Thou  shalt  not  remove  thy  neighbour's  land- 
mark, which  they  of  old  time  have  set  in  thine  inheritance. — Prov. 
xxiii.  10.  Remove  not  the  old  land-mark ;  and  enter  not  in  the  fields 
of  the  fatherless. 

g  Amos  viii.  5.  Saying,  When  will  the  new-moon  be  gone,  that 
we  may  sell  corn  ?  and  the  Sabbath,  that  we  may  set  forth  wheat, 
making  the  ephah  small,  and  the  shekel  great,  and  falsifying  the  ba» 


J3  ^  ffie  Larger  Catechism. 

h  oppression,/  extortion, k  usury,/  bribery  ,w  vexa- 
tious law-suits, n  unjust  inclosures  and  depopula- 
tions \o  ingrossing  commodities  to  inhance  the 
price,/>  unlawful  callings;^  and  all  other  unjust 

Jances  by  deceit?  Psal.  xxxvii.  %i.  The  wicked  borroweth,  and 
payeth  not  again. — 

h  Luke  xvi.  io.  He  that  is  faithful  in  that  which  is  least,  is  faith- 
ful also  in  much  :  and  he  that  is  unjust  in  the  least,  is  unjust  also  in 
much.  v.  ii.  If  therefore  ye  have  not  been  faithful  in  the  unrighte- 
ous mammon,  who  will  commit  to  your  trust  the  true  riches?  v.  12. 
And  if  ye  have  not  been  faithful  in  that  which  is  another  man's,  who 
shall  give  you  that  which  is  your  own  ? 

i  Eiek.  xxii.  29.  The  people  of  the  land  have  used  oppression, 
and  exercised  robbery,  and  have  vexed  the  poor  and  needy :  yea, 
they  have  oppressed  the  stranger  wrongfully.  Lev.  xxv.  17.  Ye  shall 
not  therefore  oppress  one  another;  but  thou  shah  fear  thy  God:  for 
I  am  the  Lord  your  God. 

k  Mat.  xxiii.  25.  Wo  unto  you,  Scribes  and  Pharisees,  hypocrites! 
for  ye  make  clean  the  outside  of  the  cup  and  of  the  platter,  but  with- 
in thev  are  full  of  extortion  and  excess.  Ezek.  xxiL  12.  In  thee  have 
they  taken  gifts  to  shed  blood :  thou  hast  taken  usury  and  increase, 
and  thou  hast  greedily  gained  of  thy  neighbours  by  extortion,  and  hast 
forgotten  me,  saith  the  Lord  God. 

/  Psal.  xv.  5.  He  that  putteth  not  out  his  money  to  usury,  nor 
taketh  reward  against  the  innocent. — 

m  Job  xv.  34.  For  the  congregation  of  hypocrites  shall  be  desolate, 
and  fire  shall  consume  the  tabernacles  of  bribery. 

n  1  Cor.  vi.  6.  But  brother  goeth  to  law  with  brother,  and  that 
before  the  unbelievers,  v.  7.  Now  therefore  there  is  utterly  a  fault 
among  you,  because  ye  go  to  law  one  with  another  :  why  do  ye  not 
rather  take  wrong?  why  do  ye  not  rather  suffer  yourselves  to  be 
defrauded  ?  v.  8.  Nav,  ve  do  wrong  and  defraud,  and  that  your 
brethren.  Prov.  iii.  29.  Devise  not  evil  against  thy  neighbour,  see- 
ing he  dwelleth  securely  by  thee.  v.  30.  Strive  not  with  a  man 
without  cause,  if  he  have  done  thee  no  harm. 

0  Isa.  v.  8.  Wo  unto  them  that  join  house  to  house,  that  lay  field 
to  field,  till  there  be  no  place,  that  they  may  be  placed  alone  in  the 
midst  of  the  earth.  Mic.  ii.  2.  And  they  covet  fields,  and  take  them 
by  violence;  and  houses,  and  take  them  away;  so  they  oppress  a  man 
and  his  house,  even  a  man  and  his  heritage, 

//  Prov.  xi.  26.  He  that  withholdeth  corn,  the  people  shall  curse 
him :  but  blessing  shall  be  upon  the  head  of  him  that  selleth  it. 

q  Acls  xix.  19.  Manv  also  of  them  which  used  curious  arts, 
brought  their  books  together,  and  burned  them  before  all  men;  and 
thev  counted  the  price  of  them,  and  found  it  fifty  thousand  pieces  of 
silver,    v.  24.  For  a  certain  man  named  Demetrius,  a  silver-smith, 


The  Larger  Catechism.  ^33 

or  sinful  ways  of  taking  or  withholding  from  our 
neighbour  what  belongs  to  him,  or  of  enriching 
ourselves  ;r  covetousness,i  inordinate  prizing  and 
affecting  worldly  goods;/  distrustful  and  distract- 
ing cares  and  studies  in  getting,  keeping,  and 
using  them  ;v  envying  at  the  prosperity  of 
others  ;w  as  likewise  idleness,.*  prodigality,  waste- 

•which  made  silver  shrines  for  Diana,  brought  no  small  gain  unto  the 
craftsmen;  v.  25.  Whom  he  called  together  with  the  workmen  of 
like  occupation,  and  said,  Sirs,  ye  know  that  by  this  craft  we  have 
our  wealth. 

r  Job  xx.  19.  Because  he  hath  oppressed,  and  hath  forsaken  the 
poor,  because  he  hath  violently  taken  away  an  house  which  he  build- 
ed  not.  James  v.  4.  Behold,  the  hire  of  the  labourers,  which  have 
reaped  down  your  fields,  which  is  of  you  kept  back  by  fraud,  crieth: 
and  the  cries  ot  them  which  have  reaped,  are  entered  into  the  ears 
of  the  Lord  of  Sabaoth.  Prov.  xxi.  6.  The  getting  of  treasures  by  a 
lying  tongue,  is  a  vanity  tossed  to  and  fro  or  them  that  seek  death. 

s  Luke  xii.  15.  And  he  said  unto  them,  Take  heed,  and  beware 
of  covetousness :  for  a  man's  life  consisteth  not  in  the  abundance  of 
the  things  which  he  possesseth. 

t  1  Tim.  vi.  5.  Perverse  dispu tings  of  men  of  corrupt  minds,  and 
destitute  of  the  truth,  supposing  that  gain  is  godliness:  from  such 
withdraw  thyself.  Col.  iii.  2.  Set  your  affection  on  things  above, 
not  on  things  on  the  earth.  Prov.  xxiii.  5.  Wilt  thou  set  thine  eyes 
upon  that  which  is  not?  for  riches  certainly  make  themselves  wings, 
they  fly  away  as  an  eagle  towards  heaven.  Psal.  lxii.  10. — If  riches 
increase,  set  not  your  heart  upon  them. 

v  Mat.  vi.  25.  Therefore  I  say  unto  you,  Take  no  thought  for 
your  life,  what  ye  shall  eat,  or  what  ye  shall  drink,  nor  yet  for  your 
body,  what  ye  shall  put  on :  is  not  the  life  more  than  meat,  and  the 
body  than  raiment?  v.  31.  Therefore  take  no  thought,  saying, 
What  shall  we  eat? — v.  34.  Take,  therefore,  no  thought  for  the  mor- 
row :  for  the  morrow  shall  take  thought  for  the  things  of  itself,  suf- 
ficient unto  the  dav  is  the  evil  thereof.  Eccl.  v.  12.  The  sleep  of  a 
labouring  man  is  sweet,  whether  he  eat  lirtle  or  much:  but  the 
abundance  of  the  rich  will  not  suffer  him  to  sleep. 

w  Psal.  lxxiii.  3.  For  I  was  envious  at  the  foolish,  when  I  saw  the 
prosperity  of  the  wicked.  Psal.  xxxvii.  1.  Fret  not  thyself  because 
of  evil  doers,  neither  be  thou  envious  against  the  workers  of  iniqui- 
ty, v.  7.  Rest  in  the  Lord,  and  wait  patiently  for  him:  fret  not 
thyself  because  of  him  who  prospereth  in  his  way,  because  of  the 
man  who  bringeth  wicked  devices  to  pass. 

*  2  Thess.  iii.  11.  For  we  hear  that  there  are  some  which  walk 


33+  The  Larger  Catechism. 

ful  gaming ;  and  all  other  ways  whereby  we  do 
unduly  prejudice  our  own  outward  estate,)/  and 
defrauding  ourselves  of  the  due  use  and  comfort 
of  that  estate  which  God  hath  given  us.  z 

0^14.3..  Which  is  the  ninth  commandment  ? 

A.  The  ninth  commandment  is,  Thou  shaft 
not  bear  false  witness  against  thy  neighbour. a 

0^144.  What  are  the  duties  required  in  the 
ninth  commandment  f 

A.  The  duties  required  in  the  ninth  command- 
ment are  the  preserving  and  promoting  of  truth 
between  man  and  man,^  and  the  good  name  of 
our  neighbour,  as  well  as  our  own;t  appearing 

among  you  disorderly,  working  not  at  all,  but  are  busy  bodies, 
Prov.  xviii.  9.  He  also  that  is  slothful  in  his  work,  is  brother  to 
him  that  is  a  great  waster. 

y  Prov.  xxi.  17.  He  that  loveth  pleasure  shall  be  a  poor  man:  he 
that  loveth  wine  and  oil  shall  not  be  rich.  Prov.  xxiii.  20.  Be  not 
amongst  wine-bibbers;  amongst  riotous  eaters  of  flesh,  v.  21.  For 
the  drunkard  and  the  glutton  shall  come  to  poverty  ;  and  drowsiness 
shall  clothe  a  man  with  rags.  Prov.  xxviii.  19.  He  that  tilleth  his 
land  shall  have  plenty  of  bread :  but  he  that  followcth  after  vain 
persons,  shall  have  poverty  enough. 

z  Eccl.  iv.  8.  There  is  one  alone,  and  there  is  not  a  second:  yea, 
he  hath  neither  child  nor  brother;  yet  is  there  no  end  of  all  his  la- 
bour, neither  is  his  eye  satisfied  with  riches,  neither  saith  he,  For 
whom  do  I  labour,  and  bereave  my  soul  of  good?  This  is  also 
vanity,  yea,  it  is  a  sore  travel.  Eccl.  vi.  2.  A  man  to  whom  God 
hath  given  riches,  wealth,  and  honour,  so  that  he  wanteth  no- 
thing for  his  soul  of  all  that  he  desireth,  yet  God  giveth  him  not 
power  to  eat  thereof,  but  a  stranger  eateth  it:  this  is  vanity,  and  it 
is  an  evil  disease.  1  Tim.  v.  8.  But  if  any  provide  not  for  his  own, 
and  specially  for  those  of  his  own  house,  he  hath  denied  the  faith, 
and  is  worse  than  an  infidel. 

14.3.  a  Exod.  xx.  16. 

144.  b  Zech.  viii.  16.  These  are  the  things  that  ye  shall  do, 
Speak  ye  every  man  the  truth  to  his  neighbour:  execute  the  judg- 
ment of  truth  and  peace  in  your  gates. 

c  3  John  \z.  Demetrius  hath  good  report  of  all  men,  and  of  the 
truth  itself:  yea,  and  we  also  bear  record,  and  ye  know  that  our  re- 
cord is  true. 


*the  'Larger  Catechism.  3Y5 

and  standing  for  the  truth  ;d  and  from  the  hearty 
sincerely ,f  freely  ,g  clearly,^  and  fully,/  speaking 
the  truth,  and  only  the  truth,  in  matters  of  judg- 
ment and  justice, k  and  in  all  other  things  what- 
soever ;/  a  charitable  esteem  of  our  neighbours,^ 

d  Prov.  xxxi.  8.  Open  thy  mouth  for  the  dumb  in  the  cause  of 
all  such  as  are  appointed  to  destruction,  v.  9.  Open  thy  mouth, 
judge  righteously,  and  plead  the  cause  of  the  poor  and  needy. 

e  Psal.  xv.  2.  He  that  walketh  uprightly,  and  worketh  righteous- 
ness, and  speaketh  the  truth  in  his  heart. 

f  2  Chron.  xix.  9.  And  he  charged  them,  saying,  Thus  shall  ye  do 
in  the  fear  of  the  Lord,  faithfully,  and  with  a  perfect  heart. 

g  1  Sam.  xix.  4.  And  Jonathan  spake  good  of  David  unto  Saul 
his  father,  and  said  unto  him,  Let  not  the  king  sin  against  his  servant, 
against  David;  because  he  hath  not  sinned  against  thee,  and  because 
his  works  have  been  to  thee-ward  very  good.  v.  5.  For  he  did  put 
his  life  in  his  hand,  and  slew  the  Philistine,  and  the  Lord  wrought  a 
great  salvation  for  all  Israel :  thou  sawest  it,  and  didst  rejoice:  where- 
fore then  wilt  thou  sin  against  innocent  blood,  to  slay  David  without 
a  cause? 

h  Josh.  vii.  19.  And  Joshua  said  unto  Achan,  My  son,  o]ve,  I 
pray  thee,  glory  to  the  Lord  God  of  Israel,  and  make  confession  unto 
him  ;  and  tell  me  now  what  thou  hast  done,  hide  it  not  from  me. 

z  2  Sam.  xiv.  18.  Then  the  king  answered  and  said  unto  the  wo- 
man, Hide  not  from  me,  I  pray  thee,  the  thing  that  I  shall  ask  thee. 
And  the  woman  said,  Let  my  lord  the  king  now  speak,  v.  19.  And 
the  king  said,  is  not  the  hand  of  Joab  with  thee  in  all  this?  And  the 
tvoman  answered  and  said,  As  thy  soul  liveth,  my  lord  the  king, 
none  can  turn  to  the  right  hand  or  to  the  left  from  ought  that  my  lord 
the  king  hath  spoken  :  for  thy  servant  Joab  he  bade  me,  and  he  put 
all  these  words  in  the  mouth  of  thine  handmaid :  v.  20.  To  fetch 
about  this  form  of  speech  hath  thy  servant  Joab  done  this  thing:  and 
my  Lord  is  wise — 

k  Lev.  xix.  15.  Ye  shall  do  no  unrighteousness  in  judgment;  thou 
shalt  not  respect  the  person  of  the  poor,  nor  honour  the  person  of  the 
mighty :  but  in  righteousness  shalt  thou  judge  thy  neighbour.  Prov. 
wtiv.  5.  A  faithful  witness  will  not  lie:  but  a  false  witness  will  utter 
lies.  v.  25.  A  true  witness  delivereth  souls,  but  a  deceitful  witness 
speaketh  lies. 

/  2  Cor.  i.  17.  When  I  therefore  was  thus  minded,  did  I  use  light- 
ness? or  the  things  that  I  purpose,  do  I  purpose  according  to  the 
flesh,  that  with  me  there  should  be  yea,  yea,  and  nay,  nay?  v.  18. 
But  as  God  is  true,  our  word  toward  you  was  not  yea  and  nay.  Eph. 
iv.  25.  Wherefore  putting  away  lying,  speak  every  man  truth  with 
his  neighbour:  for  we  are  members  one  of  another. 

m  Heb.  vi.  9.  But,  beloved,  we  are  persuaded  better  things  of 


33*> 


The  Larger  Caiechhm. 


o 


loving,  desiring,  and  rejoicing  in  their  good 
name;«  sorrowing  for,'?  and  covering  of  their 
infirmities;/)  freely  acknowledging  of  their  gifts 
and  graces, ^  defending  their  innocency  ;r  a  ready 
receiving  of  a  good  report,!  and  unwillingness 
to  admit  of  an  evil  report  concerning  them;/  dis- 

you,  and  things  that  accompany  salvation,  though  we  thus  speak, 
i  Cor.  xiii.  7.  (Charity)  beareth  all  things,  believeth  all  things,  hop- 
eth  all  things,  endureth  all  things. 

n  Rom.  i.  8.  First,  1  thank,  my  God,  through  Jesus  Christ,  for 
you  all,  that  your  faith  is  spoken  of  throughout  the  whole  world, 
a  John  4.  I  rejoiced  greatly,  that  I  found  of  thy  children  walking  in 
truth,  as  we  have  received  a  commandment  from  the  Father.  3  John 
3.  For  I  rejoiced  greatly  when  the  brethren  came  and  testified  of  the 
truth  that  is  in  thee,  even  as  thou  ualkest  in  the  truth,  v.  4.  I  have 
no  greater  joy  than  to  hear  that  my  children  walk  in  the  truth. 

0  2  Cor.  U.  4.  For  out  of  much  affliction  and  anguish  of  heart,  I 
wrote  unto  you  with  many  tears;  not  that  you  should  be  grieved, 
but  that  ye  might  know  the  love  which  I  have  more  abundantly  unto 
you.  a  Cor.  xii.  21.  And  lest  when  I  come  again,  my  God  will 
humble  me  among  you,  and  that  I  shall  bewail  many  which  have 
sinned  already,  and  have  not  repented  of  the  uncleanness,  and  forni- 
cation, and  lasciviousness  which  they  have  committed. 

p.  Prov.  xvii.  9.  He  that  covereth  a  transgression,  seeketh  love; 
but  he  that  repeateth  a  matter,  separateth  very  friends.  1  Peter  iv.  8. 
And  above  all  things  have  fervent  charity  among  yourselves :  for 
charity  shall  cover  the  multitude  of  sins. 

q  1  Cor.  i.  4.  I  thank  my  God  always  in  your  behalf,  for  the 
grace  of  God  which  is  given  you  by  Jesus  Christ;  v.  5.  That  in 
every  thing  ye  are  enriched  by  him,  in  all  utterance  and  in  all 
knowledge,  v.  7.  So  that  ye  come  behind  in  no  gilt ;  waiting  for  the 
coming  of  our  Lord  Jesus  Christ.  2  Tim.  i.  4.  Greatly  desiring  to 
see  thee,  being  mindful  of  thy  tears,  that  I  may  be  filled  with  joy; 
v.  5.  When  I  call  to  remembrance  the  unfeigned  faith  that  is  in  thee, 
which  dwelt  first  in  thy  grandmother  Lois,  and  thy  mother  Eunice  ; 
and  I  am  persuaded  that  in  thee  also. 

r  1  Sam.  xxii.  14.  Then  Ahimdech  answered  the  king,  and  -aid, 
And  who  is  so  faithful  among  all  thy  servants,  as  David,  which  is 
the  king's  son-in-law,  and  goeth  at  thy  bidding,  and  is  honourable 
in  thine  house? 

s   1  Cor.  xiii.  6.   (Charity)  rejoiceth  not  in  iniquity,  but  rejoiceth 
in  the  truth  :   v.  7.   Beareth  all  things,  believeth  all   thing.,    ho] 
all  things,  endureth  all  things. 

/  Psal.  xv.  3.  He  that  backbiteth  not  with  his  tongue,  nor  doth 
evil  to  his  neighbour,  nor  takedi  up  a  reproach  against  his  neighbour. 


^the  Larger  Catechism*  337 

couraging  tale-bearers,?;  flatterers,**;  and  slander- 
ers ;x  love  and  care  of  our  own  good  name,  and 
defending  it  when  need  requireth;^  keeping  of 
lawful  promises  ;z  studying  and  pra&ising  of 
whatsoever  things  are  true,  honest,  lovely,  and 
of  good  report.^ 

(^145.  What  are  the  sins  forbidden  in  the 
ninth  commandment  ? 

A.  The  sins  forbidden  in  the  ninth  command- 
ment are,  all  prejudicing  the  truth,  and  the  good 
name  of  our  neighbours,  as  well  as  our  own,£ 

v  Prov.  xxv.  23.  The  north-wind  driveth  away  rain:  so  doth  an 
angry  countenance  a  backbiting  tongue. 

•w  Prov.  xxvi.  24.  He  that  hateth,  dissembleth  with  his  lips,  and 
layeth  up  deceit  within  him.  v.  25.  When  he  speaketh  fair,  believe 
him  not :  for  there  are  seven  abominations  in  his  heart. 

x  Psal.  ci.  5.  Whoso  privily  slandereth  his  neighbour,  him  will  I 
cut  off. 

y  Prov.  xxii.  i.  A  good  name  is  rather  to  be  chosen  than  great 
riches,  and  loving  favour  rather  than  silver  and  gold.  John  viii.49. 
Jesus  answered,  I  have  not  a  devil  j  but  I  honour  my  Father,  and 
ye  do  dishonour  me. 

z  Psal  xv.  4. — Hethatsweareth  to  his  own  hurt,  and  changeth  not. 

a  Phil.  iv.  8.  Finally,  brethren,  whatsoever  things  are  true,  what- 
soever things  are  honest,  whatsoever  things  are  just,  whatsoever 
things  are  pure,  whatsoever  things  are  lovely,  whatsoever  things  are 
of  good  report;  if  there  be  any  virtue,  and  if  there  be  any  praise, 
think  on  these  things. 

145.  b  1  Sam.  xvii.  28.  And  Eliab  his  eldest  brother  heard  when 
he  spake  unto  the  men ;  and  Eliab's  anger  was  kindled  against  Da- 
vid, and  he  said,  Why  earnest  thou  down  hither  ?  and  with  whom 
hast  thou  left  those  few  sheep  in  the  wilderness  ?  I  know  thy  pride, 
and  the  naughtiness  of  thine  heart;  for  thou  art  come  down  that  thou 
mightest  see  the  battle.  2  Sam.  xvi.  3.  And  the  king  said,  And 
where  is  thy  master's  son?  And  Ziba  said  unto  the  king,  Behold, 
he  abideth  at  Jerusalem  :  for  he  said,  To-day  shall  the  house  of  Is- 
rael restore  me  the  kingdom  of  my  Father.  2  Sam.  i.  9.  He  said 
unto  me  again,  Stand,  I  pray  thee,  upon  me,  and  slay  me:  for  an- 
guish is  come  upon  me,  because  my  life  is  yet  whole  in  me.  v.  10. 
So  I  stood  upon  him,  and  slew  him,  because  I  was  sure  that  he  could 
not  live  after  that  he  was  fallen :  and  I  took  the  crown  that  was  upon 
his  head,  and  the  bracelet  that  was  on  his  arm,  and  have  brought 
them  hither  unto  my  lord.  v.  1 5.  And  David  called  one.  of  the  young 


3  3  8  The  Larger  Catechi  i  ///, 

especially  in  public  judicature  ;c  giving  false  evi- 
dence,^/ suborning  false  witnesses,*  wittingly  ap- 
pearing and  pleading  for  an  evil  cause,  out-fac- 
ing and  over-bearing  the  truth  \f  passing  unjust 
sentence,^  calling  evil  good,  and  good  evil ;  re- 
men,  and  said,  Go  near,  and  fall  upon  him.  And  he  smote  him 
that  he  died.  v.  16,  And  David  said  unto  him,  Thy  blood  be  upon 
thy  head :  for  thy  mouth  hath  testified  against  thee,  saying,  I  have 
slain  the  Lord's  anointed. 

c  Lev.  xix.  15.  Ye  shall  do  no  unrighteousness  in  judgment;  thou 
shalt  not  respeft  the  person  of  the  poor,  nor  honour  the  person  of  the 
mighty :  but  in  righteousness  shalt  thou  judge  thy  neighbour.  Hab. 
i.  4.  Therefore  the  law  is  slacked,  and  judgment  doth  never  go 
forth:  for  the  wicked  doth  compass  about  the  righteous :  therefore 
wrong  judgment  proceedeth. 

d  Prov.  xix.  5.  A  false  witness  shall  not  be  unpunished,  and  he 
that  speaketh  lies  shall  not  escape.  Prov.  vi.  16.  These  six  things 
doth  the  Lord  hate,  yea,  seven  are  an  abomination  unto  him  :.  v.  19. 
A  false  witness  that  speaketh  lies,  and  him  that  soweth  discord  among 
brethren. 

e  A<£ts  vi.  1  3.  And  set  up  false  witnesses,  which  said,  This  man 
ceaseth  not  to  speak  blasphemous  words  against  this  holy  place,  and 
the  law. 

f  Jer^ix.  3.  And  they  bend  their  tongues  like  their  bow  for  lies; 
but  they  are  not  valiant  for  the  truth  upon  the  earth;  for  they  pro- 
ceed from  evil  to  evil,  and  they  know  not  me,  saith  the  Lord.  v.  5, 
And  they  will  deceive  every  one  his  neighbour,  and  will  not  speak 
the  truth :  they  have  taught  their  tongue  to  speak  liesr  and  weary 
themselves  to  commit  iniquity.  Acts  xxiv.  2.  And  when  he  was 
called  forth,  Tertullus  began  to  accuse  him, — v.  5.  For  we  have 
found  this  man  a  pestilent  fellow,  and  a  mover  of  sedition  among  all 
the  Jews  throughout  the  world,  and  a  ringleader  ol  the  seel:  ol  the 
Nazarenes.  Paul.  xii.  3.  The  Lord  shall  cut  off  all  flattering  lips, 
and  the  tongue  that  speaketh  proud  things,  v.  4.  Who  have  said,- 
With  our  tongue  we  will  prevail,  our  lips  are  our  own  :  who  is  lord 
over  us?  Psal.  lii.  1.  Why  boastest  thou  thyself  in  mischief,  O 
mighty  man!  the  goodness  of  God  endureth  continually,  v.  2.  Thy 
tongue  deviseth  mischiefs :  Like  a  sharp  razor,  working  deceitfully, 
v.  3.  Thou  lovest  evil  more  than  good;  and  lying  rather  than  to 
speak  righteousness.  Selah.  v.  4.  Thou  lovest  all  devouring  words, 
O  thou  deceitful  tongue. 

g  Prov.  xvii.  15.  He  that  justifietb  the  wicked,  and  he  that  con- 
demneth  the  just,  even  they  both  are  abomination  to  the  Lord,  r 
Kings  xxi.  from  verse  9  to  14.  And  she  (Jezebel)  wrote  in  the  let- 
ters, saying,  Proclaim  a  fast,  and  set  Naboth  on  high  among  the  people  : 
v.  10.  And  set  two  men,  sons  ol  Delia'-,  before  him,  to  bear  w  kj 


¥he  Larger  Catechism,  339 

warding  the  wicked  according  to  the  work  of  the 
righteous,  and  the  rio-hteous  according:  to  the 
work  of  the  wicked; A  forgery,/  concealing  the 
truth,  undue  silence  in  a  just  cause,^  and  holding 
our  peace  when  iniquity  calleth  for  either  a  re- 
proof from  ourselves,/  or  complaint  to  others  ;m 
speaking  the  truth  unseasonably  ,#  or  maliciously 

against  him,  saying,  Thou  didst  blaspheme  God  and  the  king :  and 
then  carry  him  out,  and  stone  him  that  he  may  die.  y.  1 1 .  And  the 
men  of  his  city,  even  the  elders  and  the  nobles  who  were  the  inha- 
bitants in  his  city,  did  as  Jezebel  had  sent  unto  them.  v.  i  3. — And 
they  stoned  him  with  stones,  that  he  died. 

h  Isa.  v.  23.  Which  justify  the  wicked  for  a  reward,  and  take 
away  the  righteousness  of  the  righteous  from  him. 

i  Psal.  cxix.  69.  The  proud  have  forged  a  lie  against  me :  but  I 
will  keep  .thy  precepts  with  my  whole  heart.  Luke  xix.  8.  And 
Zaccheus  stood,  and  said  unto  the  Lord,  Behold,  Lord,  the  half  of 
my  goods  I  give  to  the  poor  :  and  if  J  have  taken  any  thing  from  any 
man  by  false  accusation,  I  restore  him  fourfold.  Luke  xvi.  5.  So 
he  called  every  one  of  his  lord's  debtors  unto  him,  and  said  unto  the 
first,  How  much  owest  thou  unto  my  lord?  v.  6.  And  he  said,  An 
hundred  measures  of  oil.  And  he  said  unto  him,  Take  thy  bill,  and 
sit  down  quickly,  and  write  fifty,  v.  7.  Then  said  he  to  another, 
and  how  much  owest  thou  ? — 

k  Lev.  v.  1.  And  if  a  soul  sin,  and  hear  the  voice  of  swearing, 
and  is  a  witness,  whether  he  hath  seen  or  known  of  it,  if  he  do  not 
utter  it,  then  he  shall  bear  his  iniquity.  Deut.  xiii.  8.  Thou  shalt 
not  .consent  unto  him,  nor  hearken  unto  him:  neither  shalt  thine 
eye  pity  him,  neither  shalt  thou  spare,  neither  shalt  thou  conceal  him. 
Acts  v.  3.  But  Peter  said,  Ananias,  why  hath  Satan  filled  thine  heart 
to  lie  to  the  Holy  Ghost,  and  to  keep  back  part  of  the  price  of  the 
land  ?  v.  8.  And  Peter  answered  unto  her,  Tell  me  whether  ye  sold 
the  land  for  so  much.  And  she  said,  Yea,  for  so  much.  v.  9.  Then 
Peter  said  unto  her,  How  is  it  that  ye  have  agreed  together  to  tempt 
the  Spirit  of  the  Lord? — 2  Tim.  iv.  16.  At  my  first  answer  no 
man  stood  with  me,  but  all  men  forsook  me :  I  pray  God  that  it 
may  not  be  laid  to  their  charge. 

/  1  Kings  i.  6.  And  his  father  had  not  displeased  him  at  any  time, 
in  saying,  Why  hast  thou  done  so — Lev.  xix.  17.  Thou  shalt  not 
hate  thy  brother  in  thine  heart:  thou  shalt  jn  any  wise  rebuke  thy 
neighbour,  and  not  suffer  sin  upon  him. 

m  Isa.  lix.  4.  None  calleth  for  justice,  nor  any  pleadeth  for  truth: 
they  trust  in  vanity. — 

n  Prov.  xxix.  n.  A  fool  uttereth  all  his  mind:  but  a  wise  man 
keepeth  it  in  till  afterwards. 


34-0  The  Larger  Catechism* 

to  a  wrong  end,/?  or  perverting  it  to  a  wrong 
meaning,/)  or  in  doubtful  and  equivocal  expres- 
sions, to  the  prejudice  of  truth  or  justice  \q  speak- 
ing untruth,r  lying, j-  slandering,/  backbiting, v 
detracting,1^    tale-bearing,^    whisperings    scof- 

o  i  Sam.  xxii.  9.  Then  answered  Doeg  the  Edomite,  which  was 
set  over  the  servants  of  Saul,  and  said,  I  saw  the  son  ot  Jesse  coming 
to  Nob,  to  Ahimelech,the  son  of  Ahitub.  v.  10.  And  he  inquired 
of  1  he  Lord  for  him  :  and  gave  him  victuals,  and  gave  him  the  sword 
of  Goliath  the  Philistine.  (Compared  with  P^al.  lit.)  A  Psalm  of  Da- 
vid, when  Doeg  the  EJomite  came  and  told  Saul, — v.  1.  Why 
boastest  thou  thyself  in  mischief,  O  mighty  man?  &c.  to  verse  5. 

ji  Psal.  lvi.  <;.  Every  day  they  wrest  my  words:  all  their  thoughts 
are  against  me  tor  evil.  John  ii.  19.  Jesus  answered  and  said  unto 
them,  Destroy  this  temple,  and  in  ttiree  days  I  will  raise  it  up.  Com- 
pared with  Mat.  xxvi.  60. — At  the  last  came  two  false  witnesses,  v. 
61.  And  ".aid,  This  fellow  said,  I  am  able  to  destroy  the  temple  of 
God,  and  to  build  it  in  three  days. 

q  Gen.  iii.  5.  For  God  doth  know,  that  in  the  day  ye  eat  thereof 
then  your  eyes  shall  be  opened  :  and  ye  shall  be  as  gods,  knowing  good 
and  evil.  Gen.  xxvi.  7.  And  the  men  of  the  place  asked  him  ot  his 
•wife;  and  he  said,  She  is  my  sister:  for  he  feared  to  say,  She  is  my 
wife.  v.  9.  And  Abimelech  called  Isaac,  and  said,  Behold,  of  a 
surety  she  is  thy  wife:  and  how  saidstthou,  She  is  my  sister? — 

r  Isa.  lix.  13.  In  transgressing  and  lying  against  the  Lord,  and 
departing  away  from  our  God,  speaking  oppression  and  revolt,  con- 
ceiving and  uttering  from  the  heart  words  of  falsehood. 

s  Lev.  xix.  11.  Ye  shall  not  steal,  neither  deal  falsely,  neither  lie 
one  to  another.  Col.  iii.  9.  Lie  not  one  to  another,  seeing  that  ye 
have  put  off  the  old  man  with  his  deeds. 

/  Psal.  I.  20.  Thou  sittest  and  speakest  against  thy  brother;  thou 
slanderest  thine  own  mother's  son. 

v  Psal.  xv.  3.  He  that  backbiteth  not  with  his  tongue — 

10  James  iv.  11.  Speak  not  evil  one  of  another,  brethren.  He 
that  speaketh  evil  of  his  brother,  and  judgeth  his  brother,  speaketh 
evil  of  the  law,  and  judgeth  the  law;  but  it  thou  judge  the  law,  thou 
art  not  a  doer  of  the  law,  but  a  judge.  Jcr.  xxxviii.  4.  Therefore  the 
princes  said  unto  the  king,  We  beseech  thee,  let  this  man  be  put 
to  death:  for  thus  he  weakeneth  the  hands  of  the  men  of  war  that  re- 
main in  this  city,  and  the  hands  of  all  the  people,  in  speaking  such 
words  unto  them:  for  this  man  seeketh  not  the  welfare  of  this  peo- 
ple, but  the  hurt. 

x  Lev.  xix.  16.  Thou  shah  not  go  up  and  down  as  a  tale-bearer 
among  thy  people;  neither  shalt  thou  stand  against  the  blood  ot  thy 
neighbour:   I  am  the  Lord. 

y  Rom.  i.  29.  Being  filled  with  all  unrighteousness,  fornication, 
wickedness,  covetousness,  maliciousness;  full  of  envy,  murder,  dc- 


*fhe  Larger  Catechism.  341 

£ng,s  reviling,^  rash,£  harsh,*:  and  partial  cen- 
suring,^ misconstructing  intentions,  words,  and 
actions ;?     flattering,/'    vain-glorious     boasting, 

bate,  deceit,  malignity;  whisperers,  v.  30.  Backbiters,  haters  of 
God, — 

z  Gen.  xxi.  9.  And  Sarah  saw  the  son  of  Hagar  the  Egyptian, 
which  she  had  borne  unto  Abraham,  mocking.  Compared  with 
Gal.  iv.  29.  But  as  then  he  that  was  born  after  the  flesh,  persecuted 
him  that  was  born  alter  the  spirit,  even  so  it  is  now. 

a  1  Cor.  vi.  10.  Nor  thieves,  nor  covetous,  nor  drunkards,  nor 
revilers,  nor  extortioners,  shall  inherit  the  kingdom  of  God. 

b  Mat.  vii.  1.  Judge  not,  that  ye  be  not  judged. 

c  Acts  xxviii.  4.  And  when  the  barbarians  saw  the  venomous 
beast  hang  on  his  hand,  they  said  among  themselves,  No  doubt  this 
man  is  a  murderer,  whom,  though  he  hath  escaped  the  sea,  yet  ven- 
geance suffereth  not  live. 

d  Gen.  xxxviii.  24.  And  it  came  to  pass  about  three  months  after, 
that  it  was  told  Judari,  saying,  Tamar  thy  daughter-in-law  hath 
played  the  harlot ;  and  also  behold,  she  is  with  child  by  whoredom: 
and  Judah  said.  Bring  her  forth,  and  let  her  be  burnt.  Rom.  ii.  r. 
Tnerelore  thou  art  inexcusable,  O  man,  whosoever  thou  art  that 
judgest:  for  wherein  thou  judgest  another,  thou  condemnest  thyself; 
tor  thou  that  judgest  doest  the  same  things. 

e  Neh.  vi.  6.  Wherein  was  written;  It  is  reported  among  the 
heathen,  and  Gashmu  saith  it,  that  thou  and  the  Jews  think  to  rebel: 
for  which  cause  thou  buildest  the  wall,  that  thou  mayest  be  their 
king,  according  to  these  words,  v.  7.  And  thou  hast  also  appointed 
prophets  to  preach  0/  thee  at  Jerusalem,  saying,  There  is  a  king  in 
Judah:  and  now  shall  it  be  reported  to  the  king,  according  to  these 
words.  Come  now  therefore,  and  let  us  take  counsel  together,  v, 
8.  Then  I  sent  unto  him,  saying,  Tnere  are  no  such  things  done  as 
thou  sayset,  but  thou  feignest  them  out  of  thine  own  heart.  Rom.  iii. 
8.  And  not  rather  (as  we  be  slanderously  reported,  and  as  some 
affirm  that  we  say.)  Let  us  do  evil  that  good  may  come?  whose 
damnation  is  just.  Psal.  lxix.  10.  When  I  wept,  and  chastened  mv 
soul  with  fasting,  that  was  to  my  reproach.  1  Sam.  i.  13.  Now 
Hannah,  she  spake  in  her  heart,  only  her  lips  moved,  but  her  voice 
was  not  heard:  therefore  Eli  thought  she  had  been  drunken,  v.  14. 
And  Eli  said  unto  her,  How  long  wilt  thou  be  drunken?  put  away 
thy  wine  from  thee.  v.  1  5.  And  Hannah  answered  and  said,  No, 
my  lord,  I  am  a  woman  ot  a  sorrowful  spirit:  I  have  drunk  neither 
wine  nor  strong  drink,  but  have  poured  out  my  soul  before  tbeL  >rd. 
2  Sam.  x.  3.  And  the  princes  of  the  children  of  Ammon  said  unto 
Hanun  their  lord,  Thinkest  thou  that  David  doth  honour  thy  father, 
that  he  hath  sent  comforters  unto  thee?  hath  not  David  rather  sent 
his  servants  unto  thee  to  search  the  city,  and  to  spy  it  out,  and  to 
overthrow  it  ? 

f  Psal,  xii.  2.  They  speak  vanity  every  one  with  his  neighbour: 


342  tte  Larger  Catechism. 

g  thinking  or  speaking  too  highly  or  too  meanly  of 
ourselves  or  others  ;/j  denying  the  gifts  and  gra- 
ces of  God  ;*"  aggravating  smaller  faults  \k  hiding, 
excusing,  or  extenuating  of  sins,  when  called  to 
a  free  confession ;/  unnecessary  discovering  of  in- 

with  flattering  lips,  and  with  a  double  heart  do  they  speak,  v.  3. 
The  Lord  shall  cut  off  all  flattering  lips,  and  the  tongue  that  speak- 
eth  proud  things. 

g  2  Tim.  hi.  2.  For  men  shall  be  lovers  of  their  own  selves,  co- 
vetous, boasters. 

It  Luke  xviii.  9.  And  he  spake  this  parable  unto  certain  which 
trusted  in  themselves  that  they  were  righteous,  and  despised  others. 
v.  11.  The  Pharisee  stood  and  prayed  thus  with  himself,  God,  I 
thank  thte,  that  I  am  not  as  other  men  are,  extortioners,  unjust, 
adulterers,  or  even  as  this  publican.  Rom.  xii.  16. — Mind  not  high 
things,  but  condescend  to  men  of  low  tstate.  Be  not  wise  in  yonr 
own  conceits.  1  Cor.  iv.  6.  And  these  things,  brethren,  I  have  in 
a  figure  transferred  to  myself,  and  to  Apollos,  for  your  sakes:  that 
you  might  learn  in  us  not  to  think  of  men  above  that  which  is  writ- 
ten, that  no  one  of  you  be  puffed  up  for  one  against  another.  Acts 
xii.  22.  And  the  people  gave  a  shout,  saying,  It  is  the  voice  of  a 
god,  and  not  of  a  man.  Exod.  iv.  jo.  And  Moses  said  unto  the 
Lord,  O  my  Lord,  I  am  not  eloquent,  neither  heretofore,  nor 
since  thou  hast  spoken  unto  thy  servant:  but  I  am  slow  of  speech, 
and  of  a  slow  tongue,  v.  11.  And  the  Lord  said  unto  him,  Who 
hath  made  man's  mouth?  or  who  maketh  the  dumb,  or  deaf,  or  the 
seeing,  or  the  blind?  have  not  I  the  Lord?  v.  12.  Now  therefore 
go,  and  I  will  be  with  thy  mouth,  and  teach  thee  what  thou  shalt 
say.  v.  13.  And  he  said,  O  my  Lord,  send,  J  pray  thee,  by  the 
hand  of  him  whom  thou  wilt  send.  v.  14.  And  the  anger  of  the 
Lord  was  kindled  against  Moses,  tec. 

/'  Job  xxvii.  5.  God  forbid  that  J  should  justify  yon:  till  I  die,  I 
will  not  remove  my  integrity  from  me.  v.  6.  My  righteousness  I 
hold  fast,  and  will  not  let  it  go:  my  heart  shall  not  reproach  me  so 
long  as  1  live,  yobiv.6.  is  not  this  thy  fear,  thy  confidence,  thy 
hope,  and  the  uprightness  of  thy  ways? 

k  Mat.  vii.  3.  And  why  beholdest  thou  the  mote  that  is  in  thy 
brother's  eye,  but  considetfcst  not  the  beam  that  is  in  thine  own  eye 
v,  4.  Or  how  wilt  thou  sav  to  thy  brother,  Let  me  pull  out  the  mote 
OUt  <>l  thine  eye;  and  behold  a  beam  is  in  thine  own  eye?  v.  5.  Thou 
hvpocrite,  first  cast  out  the  beam  out  of  thine  own  eye;  and  then 
si,. 'it  thou  see  clearly  to  east  out  the  mote  out  of  thy  brother's  eye. 

/  Prov.  xxviii.  13.  He  that  covereth  his  sins  shall  not  prosper: 
but  whoso  confesseth  and  forsaketh  them,  shall  have  mercy.  Prov. 
xfx.  20.  Such  is  the  way  of  an  adulterous  woman;  she  eateth,  and 
wipeth  her  mouth,  and  saith,  1  have  done  no  wickedness.    Gen.  hi. 


T'/je  Larger  Catechism.  242 

nrmities;;;/  raising  false  rumours,^  receiving  and 
countenancing  evil  reports, 0  and  stopping  our 
ears  against  just  defence;^)  evil  suspicion ;^  en- 
vying or  grieving  at  the  deserved  credit  of  any,r 
endeavouring  or  desiring  to  impair  it,j  rejoicing 

12.  And  the  man  said,  The  woman,  whom  thou  gavest  to  be  with 
me,  she  gave  me  of  the  tree,  and  I  did  eat.  v.  13. — And  the  woman 
said,  The  serpent  beguiled  me,  and  I  did  eat.  Jer.  ii.  35.  Yet  thou 
sayest,  Because  I  am  innocent,  surely  his  anger  shall  turn  from  me: 
behold,  I  will  plead  with  thee,  because  thou  sayest,  I  have  not  sin- 
ned. 2  Kings  v.  25. — And  Elisha  said  unto  him,  Whence  comest 
thou,  Gehazi  ?  And  he  said,  Thy  servant  went  no  whither.  Gen. 
iv.  9.  And  the  Lord  said  unto  Cain,  Where  is  Abel  thy  brother  ? 
And  he  said,  I  know  not:  am  I  my  brother's  keeper? 

m  Gen.  ix.  22.  And  Ham  the  father  of  Canaan  saw  the  nakedness 
of  his  father,  and  told  his  two  brethren  without.  Prov.  xxv.  9. 
Debate  thy  cause  with  thy  neighbour  himself;  and  discover  not  a 
secret  to  another:  v.  10.  Lest  he  that  heareth  it  put  thee  to  shame, 
and  thine  infamy  turn  not  away. 

n  Exod.  xxiii.  1.  Thou  shalt  not  raise  a  false  report:  put  not 
thine  hand  with  the  wicked  to  be  an  unrighteous  witness. 

0  Prov.  xxix.  12.  If  a  ruler  hearken  to  lies,  all  his  servants  are 
ivicked. 

Jt  Acts  vii.  56.  And  (Stephen)  said,  Behold,  I  see  the  heavens 
opened,  and  the  Son  of  man  standing  on  the  right  hand  of  God.  v. 
57.  Then  they  cried  out  with  a  loud  voice,  and  stopped  their  ears. 
— Job  xxxi.  13.  If  I  did  despise  the  cause  of  my  man-servant,  or  of 
my  maid-servant,  when  they  contended  with  me,  v.  14.  What  then 
shall  I  do  when  God  riseth  up?  and  when  he  visiteth,  what  I  shall 
answer  him? 

q  1  Cor.  xiii.  5.  (Charity)  doth  not  behave  itself  unseemly,  seek- 
eth  not  her  own,  is  not  easily  provoked,  thinketh  no  evil.  1  Tim.  vi. 
4.  He  is  proud,  knowing  nothing,  but  doting  about  questions  and 
strifes  of  words,  whereof  cometh  envy,  strife,  railings,  evil  sur- 
misings. 

r  Numb.  xi.  29.  And  Moses  said  unto  him,  Enviest  thou  for  my 
sake  ?  would  God  that  all  the  Lord's  people  were  prophets,  and  that 
the  Lord  would  put  his  Spirit  upon  them".  Mat.  xxi.  15.  And  when 
the  chief  priests  and  scribes  saw  the  wonderful  things  that  he  did,  and 
the  children  crying  in  the  temple,  and  saying,  Hosannah  to  the  son 
of  David;  they  were  sore  displeased. 

s  Ezra  iv.  12.  Be  it  known  unto  the  king,  that  the  Jews  which 
came  up  from  thee  to  us,  are  come  unto  Jerusalem,  building  the 
rebellious  and  the  bad  city,  and  have  set  up  the  walls  thereof,  and 
joined  the  foundations,  v.  13.  Be  it  known  now  unto  the  king,  that 
if  this  city  be  builded,  and  the  walls  set  up  again,  then  will  they  not 


344  ^hs  Larger  Catechism. 

in  their  disgrace  and  infamy;/  scornful  con- 
tempt^ fond  admiration  ;w  breach  of  lawful  pro- 
mises;^ neglecting  such  things  as  are  of  good  re- 
port^ and  practising,  or  not  avoiding  ourselves, 
or  not  hindering  what  we  can  in  others,  such 
things  as  procure  an  ill  names 

Q^  146.  Which  is  the  tenth  commandment? 

A.  The  tenth  commandment  is,  <Thou  shalt 
not  covet  thy  neighbour  s  house,  thou  shalt  not  co- 
vet thy  neighbour  s  wife,  nor  his  man-servant,  nor 
his  maid- servant,  nor  his  ox,  nor  his  ass,  nor  any 
thing  that  is  thy  neighbour  s. a 

pay  toll,  tribute,  and  custom,  and  so  thou  shalt  endamage  the  re- 
venue of  the  kings. 

t  Jer.  xlviii.  27.  For  was  not  Israel  a  derision  unto  thee?  was  he 
found  among  thieves?  for  since  thou  spakest  ot  him,  thou  skippedst 
tor  jov. 

v  P»al.  xxxv.  1$.  But  in  mine  adversity  they  rejored,  and  ga- 
thered themselves  togetner:  yea,  the  abjefts  gathered  themselves  to- 
gether against  me. — v.  16  With  hypocritical  mockers  in  leasts:  they 
gnashed  upon  me  with  their  teeth,  v.  21.  Yea,  they  opened  tneir 
rnnuth  wide  against  me,  and  said,  Aha,  aha,  our  eye  hath  seen  it. 
Mat.  xxvii.  28.  And  they  stripped  him,  and  put  on  nim  a  scarlet 
robe.  v.  29  And  when  they  had  platted  a  crown  ot  thorns,  they  put 
it  upon  his  head,  and  a  reed  in  his  right  hand :  and  ihey  bowed  the 
knee  before  him,  and  mocked  him,  saying,  Hail  king  ot  the  Jews. 

w  Jude  16.  These  are  murmurers,  complained,  walking  after 
their  own  lusts;  and  their  mouth  speaketh  great  swelling  woids, 
having  men's  persons  in  admiration  because  ot  advantage.  Acts  xii. 
22.  And  the  people  gave  a  shout,  saying,  It  is  the  voice  of  a  god,  and 
not  of  a  man. 

x  Rom.  i.  3 t .  Without  understanding,  covenant-breakers. — a 
Tim.  iii.  3.  Without  natural  attention,  trucc-breake rs,  false-accusers. 
y  1  Sam.  ii  24.  Nay,  my  sons;  (or  it  is  no  good  report  that  I 
bear;  ye  make  t tie  Lord's  people  to  transj 

z  2  Sam.  xiii.  12.  And  she  answered  him,  Nay,  my  brother,  do 
not  force  me:  for  no  such  thing  otlght  10  be  done  in  Israel;  do  not 
thou  tiiis  follv.  v.  13.  And  I,  whither  shall  I  cause  my  shame  to 
go  ?  and  as  tor  thee,  thou  shah  be  as  one  of  the  fools  in  Israel :  now 
therefore — Prov.  v.  8.  Remove  rh\  way  i  ir  from  her,  and  come  not 
nigh  the  door  of  her  housi  :  v.  9  Le  t  thou  give  thine  honour  unto 
Others,  and  thy  years  unto  the  cruel.  Prov.  vi.  33.  A  wound  and 
Jiah.  noui  shall  he  get,  and  his  reproach  shall  not  be  wiped  away. 

146.  a  Exod.  xx.  i  », 


T'/je  Larger  Catechism*  345 

Q.  147.  What  are  the  duties  required  in  the 
tenth  commandment  f 

A.  The  duties  required  in  the  tenth  command- 
ment are,  such  a  full  contentment  with  our  con- 
dition,^ and  such  a  charitable  frame  of  the  whole 
soul  toward  our  neighbour,  as  that  all  our  in- 
ward motions  and  affections  touching  him,  tend 
unto,  and  further  all  that  good  which  is  his.c 

Q.  148.  What  are  the  sins  forbidden  in  the 
tenth  commandment  f 

A.  The  sins  forbidden  in  the  tenth  command* 
ment  are,  discontentment  with  our  own  estate;^/ 

147.  <£Heb.  xiii.  5.  Let  your  conversation  be  without  covetous- 
ness  ;  and  be  content  with  such  things  as  ye  have  j  for  he  hath  said, 
I  will  never  leave  thee,  nor  forsake  thee.  1  Tim.  vi.  6.  But  godli- 
ness, with  contentment,  is  great  gain. 

c  Job  xxxi.  29.  If  I  rejoiced  at  the  destruction  of  him  that  hated 
me,  or  lift  up  myself  when  evil  found  him.  Rom.  xii.  15.  Rejoice 
with  them  that  do  rejoice,  and  weep  with  them  that  weep.  Psal.  cxxii. 

7.  Peace  be  within  thy  walls,  and  prosperity  within  thy  palaces,  v. 

8.  For  my  brethren  and  companions'  sake,  I  will  now  say,  Peace  be 
•within  thee.  v.  9.  Because  of  the  house  of  the  Lord  our  God,  I  will 
seek  thy  good.  1  Tim.  i.  5.  Now  the  end  of  the  commandment  is 
charity,  out  of  a  pure  heart,  and  of  a  good  conscience,  and  of  faith 
unfeigned.  Esth.  x.  3.  For  Mordecai  the  Jew  was  next  unto  king 
Ahasuerus,  and  great  among  the  Jews,  and  accepted  of  the  multitude 
of  his  brethren,  seeking  the  wealth  of  his  people,  and  speaking  peace 
to  all  his  seed.  1  Cor.  xiii.  4.  Charity  suffereth  long,  and  is  kind; 
charity  envieth  not :  charity  vaunteth  not  itself,  is  not  pufFed  up ; 
v.  5.  Doth  not  behave  itself  unseemly,  seeketh  not  her  own,  is  not 
easily  provoked,  thinketh  no  evil;  v.  6.  Rejoiceth  not  in  iniquity, 
but  rejoiceth  in  the  truth:  v.  7.  Beareth all  things,  believeth  all  things, 
hopeth  all  things,  endureth  all  things. 

148.  d  1  Kings  xxi.  4.  And  Ahab  came  into  his  house,  heavy  and 
displeased,  because  of  the  word  which  Naboth  the  Jezreelite  had 
spoken  to  him:  for  he  had  said,  I  will  not  give  thee  the  inheritance 
of  my  fathers ;  and  he  laid  him  down  upon  his  bed,  and  turned  away 
his  face,  and  would  eat  no  bread.  Esth.  v.  13.  Yet  all  this  availeth 
me  nothing,  so  long  as  I  see  Mordecai  the  Jew  sitting  at  the  king's 
gate.  1  Cor.  x.  10.  Neither  murmur  ye,  as  some  of  them  also  mur- 
mured, and  were  destroyed  of  the  destroyer. 

2X 


54-6  The  Larger  Catechism. 

envying,*  and  grieving  at  the  good  of  our  neigh- 
bour/ together  with  all  inordinate  motions  and 
afreet  ions  to  any  thing  that  is  his.g 

Q^  149.  Is  a?:y  man  able  perjeclly  to  keep  the 
commandments  of  God? 

A.  No  man  is  able,  either  of  himself,/*  or  by 
any  grace  received  in  this  life,  perfectly  to  keep 


e  Gal.  v.  26.  Let  us  not  be  desirous  of  vain-glory,  provoking  one 
another,  envying  one  another.  James  iii.  J4.  But  if  ye  have  bitter 
envying  and  •uriie  in  your  hearts,  glory  not,  and  lie  not  against  the 
truth,  v.  16.  For  where  envying  and  strife  is,  there  is  contusion, 
and  every  evil  work. 

f  Psal.  cxii.  9.  He  hath  dispersed,  he  hith  given  to  the  poor;  his 
Mgl  endureth  forever;  his  horn  shall  be  exalted  with  ho- 

nour, v.  10.  The  wicked  shall  see  it,  and  be  grieved;  he  shall 
gnash  wirh  i.is  teeth,  and  melt  away  :  the  desire  of  the  wicktd  shall 
peri-h.  Neh.  ii.  10.  When  Sanballat  the  Horonite,  and  Tobiah  the 
servant,  the  Ammonite,  heard  of  it,  it  grieved  them  exceedingly  that 
there  was  come  a  man  to  seek  the  welfare  of  the  children  of  Israel. 

g  Rom.  vii.  7.  What  shall  we  say  then  ?  Is  the  law  sin  ?  God  for- 
bid. Nay,  I  had  not  known  sin,  but  by  the  law  :  for  I  had  not  known 
lust,  except  the  law  had  said,  Tnou  shalt  not  covet,  v.  8.  But  sin, 
taking  occasion  by  the  commandment,  wrought  in  me  all  manner  of 
concupiscence.  For  without  the  law  sin  was  dead.  Rom.  xiii.  9. 
For  this,  Thou  shah  not  commit  adultery,  Thou  shalt  not  kill,  Thou 
shalt  not  Steal,  Thou  shalt  not  bear  false  witness,  Thou  shalt  not  co- 
vet ;  and  if  tuere  be  any  other  commandment,  it  is  briefly  compre- 
hended in  this  saying,  namely,  Thou  shalt  love  thy  neighbour  as  thy- 
self. Col.  iii.  5.  Mortify,  therefore,  your  members  w  hich  are  upon 
the  earth;  fornication,  uncleanness,  inordinate  affe&ion,  evil  concu- 
piscence, and  covetousness,  which  is  idolatry.  Deut.  v.  21.  Neither 
shalt  thou  desire  thy  neighbour's  wife,  neither  shalt  thou  covet  thy 
neighbour's  house,  his  field,  or  his  man-servant,  or  his  maid-servant, 
his  ox,  or  his  ass,  or  any  tiling  that  is  thy  neighbour's. 

149.  // James  iii.  2.  For  in  many  things  we  (fiend  all.  If  any 
man  offend  not  in  word,  the  same  is  a  perfect  man,  and  able  al->o 
to  bridle  the  whole  body.     John  xi  I     m  the  vine,  ye  are  the 

branches:  He  that  abideth  in  me,  and  I  in  him,  the  same  bringeth 
forth  much  fruit :  for  without  me  ye  can  do  nothing.    Roin,  viii.  3. 
For,  what  the  law  could  not  do  in  that  it  was  weak  through  the  flesh, 
God,  sending  his  own  Son  in  the  likeness  cf  sinful  flesh,  and  for  si 
condemned  sin  in  tliL  licsh. 


¥he  Larger  Catechism,  347 

the   commandments   of  God;/    but   doth  daily 
break  them  in  thought,^  word,  and  deed./ 

Q^  150.  Are  all  transgressions  of  the  law  of 
God  equally  heinous  in  themselves ',  and  in  the  sight 
of  God? 

•  A.  All  transgressions  of  the  law  of  God  are 
not  equally  heinous;  but  some  sins  in  them- 
selves, and  by  reason  of  several  aggravations,  are 
more  heinous  in  the  sight  of  God  than  others.^ 

i  Eccl.  vii.  20.  For  there  is  not  a  just  man  upon  earth,  that  doth 
good  and  sinneth  not.  i  John  i.  8.  If  we  say  that  we  have  no  sin, 
we  deceive  ourselves,  and  the  truth  is  not  in  us.  v.  10.  If  we  say 
that  we  have  not  sinned,  we  make  him  a  liar,  and  his  word  is  not  in 
us.  Gal.  v.  17.  For  the  flesh  lusteth  against  the  spirit,  and  the  spi- 
rit against  the  flesh :  and  these  are  contrary  the  one  to  the  other ;  so 
that  ye  cannot  do  the  things  that  ye  would.  Rom.  vii.  18.  For  I 
know,  that  in  me,  (that  is,  in  my  flesh)  dwelleth  no  good  thing:  for 
to  will  is  present  with  me,  but  how  to  perform  that  which  is  good, 
I  find  not.  v.  1 9.  For  the  good  that  I  would,  I  do  not :  but  the  evil 
which  I  would  not,  that  I  do. 

k  Gen.  vi.  5.  And  God  saw  that  the  wickedness  of  man  was  great 
in  the  earth,  and  that  every  imagination  of  the  thoughts  of  his  heart 
was  only  evil  continually.  Gen.  viii  21. — And  the  Lord  said  in  his 
heart,  I  will  not  again  curse  the  ground  any  more  tor  man's  sake; 
for  the  imagination  of  man's  heart  is  evil  from  his  youth. — 

/  Rom.  iii.  9. — We  have  before  proved  both  Jews  and  Gentiles, 
that  they  are  ail  under  sin;  v.  10.  As  it  is  written,  There  is  none 
righteous,  no  not  one.  v.  11.  There  is  none  that  understandeth, 
there  is  none  that  seeketh  after  God.  v.  12.  They  are  all  gone  out 
of  the  way,  they  are  together  become  unprofitable,  there  is  none 
that  doth  good,  no  not  one.  v.  13.  Their  throat  is  an  open  sepul- 
chre; with  their  tongues  they  have  used  deceit;  the  poison  of  asps 
is  under  their  lips:  v.  14.  Whose  mouth  is  full  of  cursing  and 
bitterness,  v.  15.  Their  feet  are  swift  to  shed  blood,  v.  16.  Destruc- 
tion and  misery  are  in  their  ways:  v.  1 ;.  And  the  way  of  peace  have 
they  not  known,  v.  18.  There  is  no  fear  of  God  before  their  eyes. 
v.  19.  Now  we  know  that  what  things  soever  the  law  saith,  it  saith 
to  them  who  are  under  the  law:  that  every  mouth  may  be  stopped, 
and  ail  the  world  may  become  guilty  before  God.  James  iiLfrom 
verse  2  to  13      For  in  many  things  we  offend  all. — 

150.  m  John  xix  11.  Jesus  answered,  Thou  couldst  have  no 
power  at  all  against  me,  except  it  were  given  thee  from  above:  there- 
fore he  that  delivered  me  unto  thee  hatli  the  greater  sin.  Ezek.  via.- 
v.— But  turn  thee  yet  again,  and  thou  shalt  see  greater  abominations. 


348  the  Larger  Catechism. 

Q^  151.  What  are  those  aggravations  that  make 
some  sins  more  heinous  than  others  ? 
A.  Sins  receive  their  aggravations, 
1.  From  the  persons  offending  :#  if  they  be  of 
riper  age,o    greater  experience  or  grace,/*  emi- 
nent for  profession,^  gifts,r  place, s  office,/  guides 

v.  13. — Turn  thee  yet  again,  and  thou  shalt  see  greater  abominations 
that  they  do. — v.  15.  Turn  thee  yet  again,  and  thou  shalt  see  greater 
abominations  than  these.  1  John  v.  16.  If  any  man  see  his  brother 
sin  a  sin  which  is  not  unto  death,  he  shall  ask,  and  he  shall  give  him 
life  for  them  that  sin  not  unto  death.  There  is  a  sin  unto  death  :  I 
do  not  say  that  he  shall  pray  for  it.  Psal.  lxxviii.  17.  And  they 
sinned  yet  more  against  him,  by  provoking  the  Most  High  in  the 
wilderness,  v.  32.  For  all  this  they  sinned  still:  and  believed  not 
for  his  wondrous  works,  v.  56.  Yet  they  tempted  and  provoked 
the  Most  High  God,  and  kept  not  his  testimonies. 

151.  «  Jer.  ii.  8.  The  priests  said  not,  Where  is  the  Lord?  and 
they  that  handle  the  law,  knew  me  not:  the  pastors  also  transgressed 
against  me,  and  the  prophets  prophesied  by  Baal,  and  walked  after 
things  that  do  not  profit. 

0  Job  xxxii.  7.  I  said,  Days  should  speak,  and  multitude  of  years 
should  teach  wisdom,  v.  9.  Great  men  are  not  always  wise:  neither 
do  the  aged  understand  judgment.  Eccl.  iv.  13.  Better  is  a  poor  and 
a  wise  child,  than  an  old  and  foolish  king,  who  will  no  mure  be  ad- 
monished. 

Ji  1  Kings  xi.  4.  For  it  came  to  pass  when  Solomon  was  old,  that 
his  wives  turned  away  his  heart  after  other  gods:  and  his  heart  was 
not  perfect  with  the  Lord  his  God,  as  was  the  heart  of  David  his 
father,  v.  9.  And  the  Lord  was  angry  with  Solomon,  because  hi* 
heart  was  turned  from  the  Lord  God  of  Israel,  which  had  appeared 
unto  him  twice. 

q  2  Sam.  xii.  14.  Howbeit,  because  by  this  deed  thou  hast  given 
great  occasion  to  the  enemies  of  the  Lord  to  blaspheme,  the  child 
also  that  is  born  unto  thee  shall  surely  die.  1  Cor.  v.  1.  It  is  re- 
ported commonly,  that  there  is  fornication  among  you,  and  such 
iornication  as  is  not  so  much  as  named  amongst  the  Gentiles,  that 
one  should  have  his  father's  wife. 

r  James  iv.  1  7.  Therefore  to  him  that  knoweth  to  do  good,  and 
doth  it  not,  to  him  it  is  sin.  Luke  xii.  47.  And  that  servant  which 
knew  his  Lord's  will,  and  prepared  not  himself,  neither  did  accord- 
ing to  his  will,  shall  be  beaten  with  many  stripes,  v.  48.  But  he  that 
knew  not,  and  did  commit  things  worthy  of  stripes,  shall  be  beaten 
with  few  stripes.  For  unto  whomsoever  much  is  given,  of  him  shall 
be  much  required:  and  to  whom  men  have  committed  much,  of 
him  they  will  ask  the  more. 

i  Jcr.  v.  4.   Therefore  I  said,   Surely  these  are  poor,  they  are 


T'/je  Larger  Catechism.  349 

to  others,*;  and  whose  example  is  likely  to  be 
followed  by  others.w 

2.  From  the  parties  offended:*  if  immediate- 
foolish:  for  they  know  not  the  way  of  the  Lord,  nor  the  judgment 
of  their  God.  v.  5.  I  will  get  me  unto  the  great  men,  and  will  speak 
unto  them;  for  they  have  known  the  way  of  the  Lord,  and  the 
judgment  of  their  God:  but  these  have  altogether  broken  the  yoke, 
and  burst  the  bonds.  . , 

t  2  Sam.  xii.  7.  And  Nathan  said  to  David,  Thou  art  the  man. 
Thus  saith  the  Lord  God  of  Israel,  I  anointed  thee  king  over  Israel, 

v#  g.  And  I  gave  thee  thy  master's  house,  and  thy  master's  wives 

into' thy  bosom,  and  gave  thee  the  house  of  Israel  and  of  J  udah;  and 
if  that  had  been  too  little,  I  would  moreover  have  given  unto  thee 
such  and  such  things,  v.  9.  Wherefore  hast  thou  despised  the  com- 
mandment of  the  Lord,  to  do  evil  in  his  sight?  Ezek.  vm.  11.  And 
there  stood  before  them  seventy  men  of  the  ancients  of  the  house  of 
Israel,  and  in  the  midst  of  them  stood  Jaazaniah  the  son  of  Sha- 
phan,  with  every  man  his  censer  in  his  hand,  and  a  thick  cloud  of 
incense  went  up.  v.  12.  Then  said  he  unto  me,  Son  of  man,  hast 
thou  seen  what  the  ancients  of  the  house  of  Israel  do  in  the  dark, 
everv  man  in  the  chambers  of  his  imagery  ?  for  they  say,  The  Lord 
eeeth  us  not,  the  Lord  hath  forsaken  the  earth. 

v  Rom.  ii.  17.  Behold,  thou  art  called  a  Jew,  and  restest  in  the 
law,  and  makest  thy  boast  of  God;  v.  iS.  And  knowest  his  will.— v. 
19.  And  are  confident  that  thou  thyself  art  a  guide  of  the  blind,  a 
light  of  them  which  are  in  darkness,  v.  20.  An  instructer  of  the 
foolish,  a  teacher  of  babes.— v.  21.  Thou  therefore  which  teachest 
another,  teachest  thou  not  thyself?  thou  that  preachest  a  man  should 
not  steal,  dost  thou  steal  ?  v.  22.  Thou  that  sayest  a  man  should  not 
commit  adultery,  dost  thou  commit  adultery?  thou  that  abhorrest 
idols,  dost  thou  commit  sacrilege?  v.  23.  Thou  that  makest  thy 
boast  of  the  law,  through  breaking  the  law  dishonourest  thou  God? 
v.  24.  For  the  name  of  God  is  blasphemed  among  the  Gentiles, 
through  you. 

w  Gal.  ii.  11.  But  when  Peter  Avas  come  to  Antioch,  I  withstood 
him  to  the  face,  because  he  was  to  be  blamed,  v.  12.  For  before 
that  certain  came  from  James,  he  did  eat  with  the  Gentiles :  but 
when  they  were  come,  he  withdrew,  and  separated  himself,  fearing 
them  which  were  of  the  circumcision,  v.  13.  And  the  other  Jews 
dissembled  likewise  with  him  ;  insomuch  that  Barnabas  also  was  car- 
ried away  with  their  dissimulation,  v.  14.  But  when  I  saw  that  they 
walked  not  uprightlv,  according  to  the  truth  of  the  gospel,  1  said  unto 
Peter  before  them  all,  If  thou,  being  a  Jew,  livest  after  the  manner 
of  Gentiles,  and  not  as  do  the  Jews,  why  compellest  thou  the  Gen- 
tiles to  live  as  do  the  Jews  ? 

x  Mat.  xxi.  38.  But  when  the  husbandmen  saw  the  son,  they  said 
among  themselves,  This  is  the  heir,  come  let  us  kill  him,  and  let  us 


35°  ^he  Larger  Catechu 

ly  against  God,y  his  attributes, <s  and  worfhip;a 
against  Christ,  and  his  grace  \b  the  Holy  Spirit^ 
his  witness,^/  and  workings;?  against  superiors, 
men  of  eminency^  and  such  as  we  stand  especi- 

seize  on  his  inheritance:  v.  29.  And  they  caught  him,  and  cast  him 
out  of  the  vineyard,  and  slew  tiim 

y  1  Sam.  ii  25  1/  one  man  sin  against  another,  the  judge  shall 
judge  him:  buc  it  a  man  sin  against  the  Lord,  who  shall  iimeat  tnr 
him? — Acts  v.  4  — Tnou  hast  not  lied  unto  men,  but  unto  God. 
Psal.  Ii.  4  Against  thee,  thee  only  have  J  sinned,  and  done  this  evil 
in  thy  sight:  that  thou  roightest  be  justified  when  thou  speakest,  and 
be  clear  when  thou  judg< 

s  Rom,  ii.  4.  Or  dtspisest  thou  the  riches  of  his  goodness,  and 
forbearance,  and  long-suffering;  not  knowing  that  the  goodness  ot 
God  leadeth  thee  to  repentance? 

a  Ma',,  i.  S.  And  it  ye  offer  the  blind  for  sacrifice,  is  it  not  evil  > 
and  ii  \  e  offer  the  lame  and  sick,  is  it  not  evil  ?  offer  it  now  unto  thy 
governor,  will  he  be  pleased  with  thee,  or  accept  thy  person?  saith 
the  Lord  of  hosts,  v.  14.  But  cursed  be  the  deceiver  which  hath 
in  his  flock  a  male,  and  voweth  and  sacrificeth  unto  the  Lord  a  cor- 
rupt thing:  for  1  am  a  great  King,  saith  the  Lot  ,  and  my 
name  is  dreadful  among  the  heathen. 

b  Heb.  ii.  2.  For  it  the  word  spoken  by  angels  was  stedfast,  and 
•very  transgression  and  disobedience  receive  1  a  ju  1  recommence  of 
reward:  v.  3.  How  shall  we  escape  if  we  neglect  so  great  salvation? 
— Htb.  xii.  2  v  See  that  ye  refuse  not  him  that  speaketh:  for  it  they 
escaped  not  who  refused  him  that  spake  on  earth,  much  more  shall 
not  we  escape,  if  we  turn  away  from  him  that  speaketh  irom  hea- 
ven. 

c  Heb.  x.  2.;.  Of  how  much  sortr  punishment,  suppose  ye,  shall 
he  be  thought  worthy,  who  hath  trodden  under  foot  the  Son  ot  G  id  I 
— Mat. xii.  31.  Wherefore  I  saj  unto  yon,  All  manner  ot  sin  and 
blaspheme  si, all  he  forgiven  unto  men;  but  the  blasphemy  against 
the  H'  iy  Ghost  shall  not  be  forgiven  unto  men.  v.  32.  And  who- 
soever speaketh  a  word  against  the  Son  of  man,  it  shall  be  forgiven 
him:  but  whi  the  Holy  Ghost,  it  shall  not 

be  forgiven  him,  neither  in  this  world,  neither  in  the  world  to 
come. 

d  Eph.  iv.  30.  And  grieve  not  the  holy  Spirit  of  God,  whereby 
ye  are  scaled  unto  the  day  of  redemption. 

e  Heb.  vi.  4.   For  it  is  impossi  I    t  ;oce  who  were  once  en- 

lighten .1,  and  have  tasted  dI  the  heavenly  gift,  and  were  made  par- 
takers of  the  Holy  Ghost;  v.  5.  And  have  tatted  the  good  word  of 
God,  and  the  powers  ot  the  world  to  come;  r.  6.  i:  they  shall  fall 
away,  to  rem  in  unto  repentance. — 

J  Jude  v(  b)  dreamers  defile  the  flesh, 


H/je  Larger  Catechism,  351 

ally  related  and  engaged  unto  ;g  against  any  of 
the  saints,/6  particularly  weak  brethren,/  the  souls 
of  them,  or  any  other,i  and  the  common  good  of 
all,  or  many./ 

despise  dominion,  and  speak  evil  of  dignities.  Numb.  xii.  S. — • 
Wherefore  then  were  ye  not  afraid  to  speak  against  my  servant 
Moses?  v.  9.  And  the  anger  of  the  Lord  was  kindled  against  them, 
and  he  departed.  Isa.  iii  5. — The  child  shall  behave  himself  proud- 
ly  against  the  ancient,  and  the  base  against  the  honourable. 

g  Prov.  xxx.  17.  The  eye  that  mockethat  his  father,  and  despiseth 
to  obey  his  mother,  the  ravens  of  the  valley  shall  pick  it  out,  and 
the  young  eagles  shall  eat  it.  2  Cor.  xii.  15.  And  I  will  very  glad- 
ly spend  and  be  spent  for  you,  though  the  more  abundantly  I  love 
you,  the  le^s  I  be  loved.  P  al.  lv.  12.  For  it  was  not  an  enemy  that 
reproached  me,  then  I  couid  have  borne  it;  neither  was  it  he  that 
hated  me,  that  did  magnify  himself  against  me,  then  I  would  have 
hid  myself  from  him.  v.  13.  But  it  was  thou,  a  man,  mine  equal, 
my  guide  and  mine  acquaintance,  v.  14.  We  took  sweet  counsel 
together,  and  walked  umo  the  house  of  God  in  company,  v.  i£. 
Let  death  seize  upon  them,  and  let  them  go  down  quick  into 
heil.— 

h  Zeph.  ii.  8.  I  have  heard  the  reproach  of  Moab,  and  the  revil- 
ings  of  the  children  of  Amnion,  whereby  they  have  reproached  my 
people. — v.  10.  This  shall  they  have  for  their  pride,  because  they 
have  reproached  and  magnified  themselves  against  the  people  of  the 
Lord  of  hosts,  v.  11.  The  Lord  will  be  terrible  unto  them. — Mat. 
xviii.  6.  But  whoso  shall  offend  one  of  these  little  ones  wnich  believe 
in  me,  it  were  better  for  him  that  a  millstone  were  hanged  about  his 
neck,  and  that  he  were  drowned  in  the  depth  of  the  sea.  1  Cor.  vi. 
8.  Nay,  ye  do  wrong  and  defraud,  and  that  your  brethren.  Rev. 
xvii.  6.  And  1  saw  the  woman  drunken  with  the  blood  of  the  saints, 
and  with  the  blood  of  the  martyrs  of  Jesus. — 

i  1  Cor.  viii.  11.  And  through  thy  knowledge  shall  the  weak 
brother  perish,  for  whom  Chrisc  died?  v.  12.  But  when  ye  sin  so 
against  the  brethren,  and  wound  their  weak  conscience,  ye  sin  against 
Christ.  Rom.  xiv.  13.  Let  us  not  therefore  judge  one  another  any 
more  :  but  judge  this  rather,  that  no  man  put  a  stumbling  block,  or 
an  occasion  to  fall,  in  his  brother's  way.  v.  15.  But  if  thy  brother  be 
grieved  with  thy  meat,  now  walkest  thou  not  charitably  ?  Destroy 
not  him  with  thy  meat,  for  whom  Christ  died.  v.  21.  It  is  good 
neither  to  eat  flesh,  nor  to  drink  wine,  nor  any  thing  whereby 
brother  stumbleth,  or  is  offended,  or  is  made  weak. 

k  Ezek.  xiii.  19.  And  will  ye  pollute  me  among  my  people,  for 
handfuls  of  barley,  and  for  pieces  of  bread,  to  slay  the  souls  that 
should  not  die,  and  to  save  the  souls  alive  that  should  not  live,  by 
xcw:  lying  to  my  people  that  hear  your  lies?     1  Cor.  viii.  il.  Bt& 


352  the  Larger'  Catechism. 

3.  From  the  nature  and  quality  of  the  offence  :m 
if  it  be  against  the  express  letter  of  the  law,« 
break  many  commandments,  contain  in  it  many 
sins  :o  if  not  only  conceived   in  the  heart,  but 

when  ye  sin  so  against  the  brethren,  and  wound  their  weak  consci- 
ences, ye  sin  against  Christ.  Rev.  xviii.  1  3.  (The  merchandize  of 
gold,)  and  cinnamon,  and  odours,  and  ointments,  and  frankincense, 
and  wine,  and  oil,  and  fine  flour,  and  wheat,  and  beasts,  and  sheep,  and 
horses,  and  chariots,  and  slaves,  and  souls  of  men.  Mat.  xxiii.  15. 
Wo  unto  you,  scribes  and  Pharisees,  hypocrites;  for  ye  compass  sea 
and  land  to  make  one  proselyte,  and  when  he  is  made,  ye  make  him 
two-fold  more  the  child  of  hell  than  yourselves. 

/  1  Thess.  ii.  15.  Who  both  killed  the  Lord  Jesus,  and  their  own 
prophets,  and  have  persecuted  us;  and  they  please  not  God,  and  are 
contrary  to  all  men  :  v.  16.  Forbidding  us  to  speak  to  the  Gentiles, 
that  they  might  be  saved. — Josh.  xxii.  20.  Did  not  Achan,  the  son  of 
Zerah,  commit  a  trespass  in  the  accursed  thing,  and  wrath  fell  on  all 
the  congregation  of  Israel  ?  and  that  man  perished  not  alone  in  his 
iniquity. 

m  Prov.  vi.  30.  Men  do  not  despise  a  thief,  if  he  steal  to  satisfy 
his  soul  when  he  is  hungry  :  v.  31.  But  if  he  be  found,  he  shall  re- 
store seven  fold. — v.  32.  But  whoso  committeth  adultery  with  a  wo- 
man, lackefh  understanding:  he  that  doth  it,  destroyeth  his  own 
soul.  v.  33.  A  wound  and  dishonour  shall  he  get,  and  his  reproach 
shall  not  be  wiped  away.     (And  so  on  to  the  end  of  the  chapter.) 

n  Ezra  ix.  10.  And  now,  O  our  God,  what  shall  we  say  after  this? 
for  we  have  forsaken  thy  commandments,  v.  11.  Which  thou  hast 
commanded  by  thy  servants  the  prophets,  saying,  The  land  unto 
which  ye  go  to  possess  it,  is  an  unclean  land  with  the  filthiness  of  the 
people. — v.  12.  Now,  therefore,  give  not  your  daughters  unto  their 
sons,  nor — 1  Kings  xi.  9.  And  the  Lord  was  angry  with  Solomon,  be- 
cause his  heart  was  turned  from  the  Lord  God  of  Israel  who  had  ap- 
peared unto  him  twice;  v.  10.  And  had  commanded  him  concern- 
ing this  thing,  that  he  should  not  go  after  other  god;:  but  he  kept 
not  that  which  the  Lord  commanded. 

0  Col.  iii.  5.  Mortify,  therefore,  your  members  which  are  upon 
the  earth  ;  fornication,  uncleanness,  inordinate  affection,  evil  concu- 
piscence, and  covetousness,  which  is  idolatry.  1  Tim.  vi.  10.  For 
the  love  of  money  is  the  root  of  all  evil ;  which  while  some  coveted 
after,  they  have  erred  from  the  faith,  and  pierced  themselves  through 
wiih  many  sorrows.  Prov.  v.  8.  Remove  thy  way  far  from  her,  and 
come  not  nigh  the  door  of  her  house  :  v.  9.  Lest  thou  give  thine 
honour  unto  others,  and  thy  years  unto  the  cruel,  v.  10.  Lest  stran- 
gers be  filled  with  thy  wealth, — v.  1 1.  And  thou  mourn  at  the  last, 
when  thy  flesh  and  thy  body  are  consumed,  v.  12.  And  say,  How 
have  1  hated  instruction,  and  my  heart  despued  reproof?  Prov.  vi. 


'the  Larger  Catechism.  q  c  o 

break  forth  in  words  and  ac~tions,/>  scandalize 
others, ^  and  admit  of  no  reparation  :r  if  against 
means,*  mercies,/   judgments,!;  light  of  nature, 

32.  But  whoso  committeth  adultery  with  a  woman,  lacketh  under- 
standing: he  that  doth  it  destroyeth  his  own  soul.  v.  33.  A  wound 
and  dishonour  shall  he  get. — Josh.  vii.  21.  When  I  saw  among  the 
spoils  a  goodly  Babylonish  garment,  and  two  hundred  shekels  of  sil- 
ver, and  a  wedge  of  gold  of  fifty  shekels  weight,  then  I  coveted  them, 
and  took  them — 

/James  i.  14.  But  every  man  is  tempted,  when  he  is  drawn  away 
of  his  own  lust,  and  enticed,  v.  15.  Then,  when  lust  hath  conceived 
it  bringeth  forth  sin :  and  sin,  when  it  is  finished,  bringeth  forth 
death.  Mat.  v.  22.  But  I  say  unto  you,  that  whosoever  is  angry  with 
his  brother  without  a  cause,  shall  be  in  danger  of  the  judgment:  and 
whosoever  shall  say  to  his  brother,  Raca,  shall  be  in  danger  of  the 
council:  but  whosoever  shall  say,  Thou  fool,  shall  be  in  danger 
of  hell-fire.  Mic.  ii.  1.  Wo  to  them  that  devise  iniquity,  and  work 
evil  upon  their  beds :  when  the  morning  is  light  they  practise  it,  be- 
cause it  is  in  the  power  of  their  hand. 

q  Mat.  xviii.  7.  Wo  unto  the  world  because  of  offences:  for  it 
must^  needs  be  that  offences  come  :  but  wo  to  that  man  by  whom  the 
offence  cometh.  Rom.  ii.  23.  Thou  that  makest  thy  boast  of  the 
law,  through  breaking  the  law  dishonourest  thou  God?  v.  24.  For 
the  name  of  God  is  blasphemed  among  the  Gentiles,  through  you. 
as  it  is  written. 

r  Deut.  xxii.  22.  If  a  man  be  found  lying  with  a  woman  married 
to  an  husband,  then  they  shall  both  of  them  die,  both  the  man  that 
lay  with  the  woman,  and  the  woman :  so  shalt  thou  put  away  evil 
from  Israel  Compared  with  v.  28.  If  a  man  find  a  damsel  that  is  a 
virgin,  which  is  not  betrothed,  and  lay  hold  on  her,  and  lie  with 
her,  and  they  be  found:  v.  29.  Then  the  man  that  lay  with  her, 
shall  give  unto  the  damsel's  father  fifty  shekels  of  silver,  and  she  shall 
be  his  wife,  because  he  hath  humbled  her;  he  may. not  put  her  away 
all  his  days.  Prov.  vi.  32.  But  whoso  committeth  adultery  with  a 
woman,  lacketh  understanding:  he  that  doth  it,  destroyeth  his  own 
soul.  v.  33.  A  wound  and  dishonour  shall  he  get,  and'his  reproach 
shall  not  be  wiped  away.  v.  34.  For  jealousy  is  the  rage  of  a  man: 
therefore  he  will  not  spare  in  the  day  of  vengeance,  v.  35.  He  will 
not  regard  any  ransom  :  neither  will  he  rest  content,  though  thou 
givest  many  gifts. 

sMsX.  xi.  21.  Wo  unto  thee,  Chorazin,  wo  unto  thee,  Bethsaida; 
for  if  the  mighty  works  which  were  done  in  you,  had  been  done  in 
1  yre  and  Sidon,  they  would  have  repented  long  ago  in  sackcloth  and 

aS  Aoi    V'  22"  But  I  say  unt0  -V011'  lt  sha11  be  more  tolerable  ^  Tyre 
arid  Sidon  at  the  day  of  judgment,  than  for  you.     v.  23.  And  thou, 

Capernaum^  which  art  exalted  unto  heaven,  shalt  be  brought  down 
to  he.!;  for  if  the  mighty  works  whitfi  have  been  done  in  thee,  had 

2Y 


554  *he  Larger  Catechism. 

iy  conviclion  of  conscience,*  public  or  private  ad- 
monition,^ censures  of  the  church, s  civil  punish- 

been  done  in  Sodom,  it  would  have  remained  until  this  dav.  v.  24. 
But  I  say  unto  you,  that  it  shall  be  more  tolerable  for  the  land  of  So- 
dom— John  xv.  22.  If  I  had  not  come,  and  spoken  unto  them,  they 
had  not  had  sin;  but  now  they  have  no  cloke  for  their  sin. 

/  Isa.  i.  3.  The  ox  knoweth  his  owner,  and  the  ass  his  n 
crib;   but  Israel   doth   not  know,    my  people  doth  not    consider. 
Deut.  xxxii.  6.  Do  ye  thus  requite  the  Lord,  O  foolish   people  and 
unwise?  is  not  he  thy  father  that  hath   bought  thee?  hath  he  not 
made  thee,  and  established  thee  ? 

v  Amos  iv.  8.  So  two  or  three  cities  wandered  into  one  city,  to 
drink  water;  but  they  were  not  satisfied:  yet  have  ye  not  returned 
unto  me,  saith  the  Lord.  v.  9.  I  have  smitttn  you  with  blasting  and 
mildew  ;  when  your  gardens,  and  your  vineyards,  and  your  fig-trees, 
and  your  olive-trees  increased,  the  palmer-worm  devoured  them: 
yet  have  ye  not  returned  unto  me,  saith  the  Lord.  v.  10.  I  have  sent 
among  you  the  pestilence  alter  the  manner  of  Egypt:  your  young 
men  have  I  slain  with  the  sword,  and  have  taken  away  your  horses, 
and  I  have  made  the  stink  of  your  camps  to  come  up  into  your  nostrils : 
yet  have  ye  not  returned  unto  me,  saith  the  Lord.  v.  11.  I  Jiave 
overthrown  some  of  you,  as  God  overthrew  Sodom  and  Gomorrah, 
and  ye  were  as  a  fire-brand  plucked  out  of  the  burning:  vet  have  ye 
not  returned  unto  me,  saith  the  Lord.  Jer.  v.  3.  O  Lord,  are  not 
thine  eyes  upon  the  truth?  thou  hast  stricken  them,  but  they  have 
not  grieved  ;  thou  hast  consumed  them,  but  they  have  refused'  to  re- 
ceive correction ;  they  have  made  their  faces  harder  than  a  rock., 
they  have  refused  to  return. 

m.i.26.  Fortius  cause  God  gave  them  up  unto  vile  affections: 
for  even  their  women  did  change  the  natural  use  into  that  which  is 
against  nature:  v.  27.  And  likewise  also  the  men,  leaving  the 
natural  use  of  the  woman,  burntd  in  their  lust  one  toward  another, 
men  with  men  working  that  which  is  unseemly,  and  receiving  in 
themselves  that  reepmj  ence  of  their  error  which  was  meet, 

v  Rom.  i.  32.  Who  knowing  the  judgmi  nt  oi  God,  (that  they 
which  commit  such  things  are  worthy  oi  death)  not  only  do  the  sarin-, 
but  have  pleasure  in  Ffiem  that  do  them.  Dan.  v.  22.  And  thou  hi- 
son,  O  Belshazzar,  hast  not  humbled  thine  heart,  though  thou 
knewest  all  this.  Tit.  iii.  10.  A  man  that  is  an  heretic,  alter  the 
first  and  second  admonition,  reject :  v.  11.  Knowing  that  he  that  is 
such,  is  subverted,  andsinneth,  being  condemned  oi  himself. 

v  Proy.  xxix.  1.  He  that  being  often  reproved  hardeneth  his 
n<i_l.,  shall  suddenly  be  destroyed,  and  that  without  remedy. 

z  Tit.  iii.  10.  A  man  thai  is  an  here  ic,  after  the-  first  and  second 
admonition,  reject.  Mat.  xviii.  17.  And  if  he  shall  neglect  to  hear 
them,  tell  it  unto  the  (  hurch  :  but  if  he  neglect  to  henr  the  church, 
let  him  be  unto  thee  ai  an  heathen  man,  and  a  publican. 


T'/je  Larger  Catechism.  355 

merits  \a  and  our  prayers,  purposes,  promises,/* 
vows,c  covenants, d  and  engagements  to  God  or 
men:?  if  done  deliberately^ wilfully  ,g  presump- 

a  Prov.  xxv ii.  22.  Though  thou  shouldst  bray  a  fool  in  a  mortar 
amono-  wheat  with  a  pestle,  yet  will  not  his  foolishness  depart  from, 
him.  Prov.  xxiii  35.  They  have  stricken  me,  shalt  thou  say,  and 
I  was  not  sick;  they  have  beaten  me,  and  I  felt  it  not;  when  shali 
I  awake?  I  willseek  it  yet  again.  # 

b  Psal.  lxxviii.  34.  When  he  slew  them,  then  they  sought  him ; 
and  they  returned  and  inquired  early  after  God.  v.  35.  And  they 
remembered  that  God  was  their  rock,  and  the  high  God  their  Re- 
deemer, v.  36.  Nevertheless,  they  did  flatter  him  with  their  mouth, 
and  they  lied  unto  him  with  their  tongues,  v.  37.  For  their  heart 
was  not  right  with  him,  neither  were  they  stedfast  in  his  covenant, 
Jer.  ii.  20.  For  of  old  time  I  have  broken  thy  yoke,  and  burst  thy 
oands,  and  thou  saidst,  I  will  not  transgress:  when  upon  every  high 
hill,  and  under  every  green  tree,  thou  wanderest,  playing  the  harlot. 
Jer.  xlii.  5.  Then  they  said  to  Jeremiah,  The  Lord  be  a  true  and 
faithful  witness  between  us,  if  we  do  not  even  according  to  all  things 
for  the  which  the  Lord  thy  God  shall  send  thee  to  us.  v.  6.  Whether 
it  be  good,  or  whether  it  be  evil,  we  will  obey  the  voice  of  the  Lord 
our  God,  to  whom  we  send  thee. — v.  20.  For  ye  dissembled  in  your 
hearts,  when  ye. sent  me  unto  the  Lord  your  God,  saying,  Pray  for 
us  unto  the  Lord  our  God,  and  according  unto  all  that  the  Lord 
our  God  shall  say,  so  declare  unto  us,  and  we  will  do  it.  v.  21. 
And  now  I  have  this  day  declared  ii  to  you,  but  ye  have  not  obeyed 
the  voice  of  the  Lord  your  God,  nor  any  thing  for  the  which  he 
hath  sent  me  unto  you. 

c  Eccl.  v.  4.  When  thou  vowest  a  vow  unto  God,  defer  not  to 
pay  it;  for  he  hath  no  pleasure  in  fools;  pay  that  which  thou  hast 
vowed,  v.  5.  Better  is  it  that  thou  shouldst  not  vow,  than  that  thou 
shouldst  vow  and  not  pay.  vA>.  Suffer  not  thy  mouth  to  cause  thy 
flesh  to  sin,  neither  say  thou  before  the  angel,  that  it  was  an  error: 
wherefore  should  God  be  angry  at  thy  voice,  and  destroy  the  work 
of  thine  hands?  Prov.  xx.  2  5.  It  is  a  snare  to  the  man  who  devoureth 
that  which  is  holy:  and  after  vows  to  make  inquiry. 

J  Lev.  xxvi.  25.  And  I  will  bring  a  sword  upon  you,  that  shall 
avenge  the  quarrel  of  my  covenant. — - 

e  Prov.  ii  17.  Which  forsaketh  the  guide  of  her  youth,  and  for- 
getteth  the  covenant  of  her  God.  Ezek.  xvii.  iS.  Seeing  he  despised 
the  oath  by  breaking  the  covenant,  (when  lo,  he  had  given  his  hand) 
and  hath  done  all  these  things,  he  shall  not  escape,  v.  19.  There- 
fore thus  saith  the  Lord  God,  As  I  live,  surely  mine  oath  that  he 
hath  despised,  and  my  covenant  that  he  hath  broken,  even  it  will  I 
reeompence  upon  his  own  head. 

/  Psal.  xxxvi.  4.   He  deviseth  mischief  upon  his  bed;  he  setteth 
himsell  in  away  that  is  not  good;  he  abhorreth  not  evil. 
•  g  Jer.  vi.  16.  Thus:.'  •  "•.v.,  Stand  ye  in  the  ways,  and  secj 


35 6  The  Larger  Catechism. 

tuously,Z»  impudently,/  boastingly,/6  maliciously,/ 
frequently,;;/  obstinately^  with  delight,o  conti- 
nuance,/) or  relapsing  after  repentance.^ 


and  ask  for  tke  old  paths,  where  is  the  good  way,  and  walk  therein, 
and  ye  shall  find  rest  for  your  souls:  but  they  said,  We  will  nor 
walk  therein. 

//  Numb.  xv.  30.  But  the  soul  that  doth  ought  presumptuously 
(whether  he  be  born  in  the  land,  or  a  stranger)  the  same  reproacheth 
the  Lord,  and  that  soul  shall  be  cut  off  Irom  among  his  people. 
Exod.  xxi.  14.  But  if  a  man  come  presumptuously  upon  his  neigh- 
bour to  slay  him  with  guile;  thou  shalt  take  him  from  mine  altar, 
that  he  may  die. 

i  Jer.  iii.  3.  Therefore  the  showers  have  been  withholden,  and 
there  hath  been  no  latter  rain,  and  thou  hadst  a  whore's  forehead, 
thou  refusedst  to  be  ashamed.  Prov.  vii.  13.  So  she  caught  him  and 
kissed  him,  and  with  an  impudent  face  said  unto  him. 

k  Psal.  Iii.  1.  Why  boastest  thou  thyself  in  mischief,  O  mighty 
man  ? 

/  3  John  10.  Wherefore  if  I  come,  I  will  remember  his  deecfe 
which  he  doth,  prating  against  us  with  malicious  words. — 

m  Numb.  xiv.  22.  Because  all  those  men  which  have  seen  my  glo- 
ry and  my  miracles  which  I  did  in  Egypt,  and  in  the  wilderness, 
and  have  tempted  me  now  these  ten  times,  and  have  not  hearkened 
to  my  voice. 

«  Zech.  vii.  11.  But  they  refused  to  hearken,  and  pulled  away 
the  shoulder,  and  stopped  their  ears,  that  they  should  not  hear.  v. 
12.  Yea,  they  made  their  hearts  as  an  adamant  stone,  lest  they  should 
hear  the  law,  and  the  words  which  the  Lord  of  hosts  hath  sent  in  his 
Spirit  by  the  former  prophets:  therefore  came  a  great  wrath  from 
the  Lord  of  hosts. 

0  Prov.  ii.  14.  Who  rejoice  to  do  evil,  and  delight  in  the  froward- 
ness  of  the  wicked. 

//  La.  lvii.  17.  For  the  iniquity  of  his  covetousness  was  I  wroth, 
ar-.d  smote  him  :  I  hid  me,  and  was  wroth,  and  he  went  on  froward- 
3y  in  the  wav  of  his  heart. 

q  Jer.  xxxiv.  8.  This  is  the  wojd  that  came  unto  Jeremiah  from 
the  Lord,  after  that  the  king  Zedekiah  had  made  a  covenant  with  all 
the  people  which  were  at  Jerusalem,  to  proclaim  liberty  unto  them  ; 
v.  (j.  That  every  man  should  let  bis  man-servant,  and  every  man  his 
maid-servant,  being  an  Hebrew  or  an  Htbrewcss  go  tree,  that 
none  should  serve  himself  of  them,  to  wit,  of  a  Jew  his  brother,  v. 
10.  Now  when  all  the  princes,  and  all  the  people  which  had  enter- 
ed into  the  covenant,  heard  that  every  one  ^iiould  let  his  man-ser- 
vant, and  every  one  his  maid-servant  go  free,  that  none  should  serve 
themselves  of  them  any  more,  then  they  obeyed,  and  let  them  go. 
v.  11.  Bui  afterwards  they  turned  and  caused  the  servants  and  the 
hand-maids,  whom  tiny  had  let  go  free,  to  return,  and  brought 


The  Larger  Catechism.  3:7 

4.  From  circumstances  of  time,r  and  place  :$ 
if  on  the  Lord's  day,/  or  other  times  of  divine 
worship  ;v  or  immediately  before  w  or  after  these, 

them  into  subjection  for  servants,  and  for  hand-maids.  2  Pet.  ii„ 
20.  For  if  after  they  have  escaped  the  pollutions  of  the  world,  through 
the  knowledge  of  the  Lord  and  Saviour  Jesus  Christ,  they  aie 
again  entangled  therein,  and  overcome;  the  latter  end  is  worse  with 
them  than  the  beginning,  v.  21.  For  it  had  been  better  for  them 
not  to  have  known  the  way  of  righteousness,  than  after  thev  have 
known  it,  to  turn  from  the  holy  commandment  delivered  unto'  them. 
v.  22.  But  it  is  happened  unto  them  according  to  the  true  proverb, 
The  dog  is  turned  to  his  own  vomit  again;  and,  The  sow  that  was 
washed,  to  her  wallowing  in  the  mire. 

r  2  Kings  v.  26.  And  he  said  unto  him,  v'Gehazi,)  Went  not 
mine  heart  with  thee,  when  the  man  turned  again  from  his  chariot 
to  meet  thee?  is  it  a  time  to  receive  money,  and  to  receive  gar- 
ments, and  olive-yards,  and  vine-yards,  and  sheep,  and  oxen,  and 
men-servants,  and  maid-servants? 

s  Jer.  vii.  10.  And  come  and  stand  before  me  in  this  house,  which 
is  called  by  my  name,  arid  say,  We  are  delivered  to  do  all  these  abo- 
minations. Isa.  xxvi.  10.  Let  favour  be  shewed  to  the  wicked,  yet 
will  he  not  learn  righteousness;  in  the  land  of  uprightness  will  he 
deal  unjustly,  and  will  not  behold  the  majesty  of  the  Lord. 

t  Ezek.  xxiii.  37.  That  they  have  committed  adultery,  and  blood 
is  in  their  hands,  and  with  their  idols  have  they  committed  adultery. 
— v.  38.  Moreover,  this  they  have  done  unto  me:  they  have  defiled 
my  sanctuary  in  the  same  day,  and  have  profaned  my  sabbaths,  v. 
39.  For  when  they  had  slain  their  children  to  their  idols,  then  they 
came  the  same  day  into  my  sanctuary  to  profane  it;  and  lo,  thus 
have  they  done  in  the  midst  of  mine  house. 

v  Isa.  lviii.  3.  Wherefore  have  we  fasted,  say  they,  and  thou 
seest  not?  wherefore  have  we  afflicted  our  soul,  and  thou  takest  no 
knowledge?  Behold,  in  the. day  of  your  fast  you  find  pleasure,  and 
exact  all  your  labours,  v.  4.  Behold,  ye  fast  for  strife  and  debate, 
and  to  smite  with  the  fist  of  wickedness;  ye  shall  not  fast  as  ye  do 
this  day,  to  make  your  voice  to  be  heard  on  high.  v.  5.  Is  it  such 
a  fast  that  I  have  chosen  ?  a  day  for  a  man  to  afflict  his  soul  ?  Is  it  to 
bow  down  his  head  as  a  bulrush,  and  to  spread  sackcloth  and  ashes 
under  him?  wilt  thou  call  this  a  fast,  and  an  acceptable  day  to  the 
Lord?  Numb.  xxv.  6.  And  behold,  one  of  the  children  of  Israel 
came  and  brought  unto  his  brethren  a  Midianitish  woman,  in  the 
sight  of  Moses,  and  in  the  sight  of  all  the  congregation  of  the  chil- 
dren of  Israel,  who  were  weeping  before  the  door  of  the  tabernacle 
of  the  congregation,  v.  7,  And  when  Phinehas,  the  son  of  Eleazar, 
the  son  of  Aaron  the  priest,  saw  it,  he  rose  up  from  among  the  con- 
gregation, and  took  a  javelin  in  his  hand. 

•&  j  Cor.  xi.  20.   When  ye  come  together,  therefore,  into  one 


35« 


"The  Larger  Catechism. 


>r  other  helps  to  prevent  or  remedy  such  mil- 
carriages  :y  if  in  public,  or  in  the  presence  of 
others,  who  are  thereby  likely  to  be  provoked  or 
defiled.3. 

Q^  152.  What  doth  every  fin  deserve  at  the 
hands  of  God? 

A.  Every  sin,  even  the  least,  being  against  the 
sovereignty, #  goodness,^  and  holiness   of  God.c 

place,  this  is  not  to  eat  the  Lord's  supper,  v.  21.  For  in  eating;  every- 
one taketii  before  other  his  own  supper:  and  one  is  hungry,  and 
another  is  drunken. 

x  Jer.  vii  8.  Behold,  ye  trust  in  lying  words,  that  cannot  profit. 
v.  9.  Will  ye  steal,  murder,  and  commit  adultery,  and  svvear  false- 
1\ ,  and  burn  incense  unto  Baal,  and  walk  after  other  gods  whom  ye 
know  not  ;  v.  10.  And  come  and  stand  before  me  in  this  ht 
w  I  rch  is  called  by  my  name,  and  say,  Wc  are  delivered  to  do 
these  abominations?  Prov.  vii.  14.  I  have  peace-offerings  with  me; 
this  day  have  I  paid  my  vows.  v.  15.  Therefore  came  I  forth  to 
meet  thee,  diligently  to  seek  thy  face,  and  I  have  found  thee.  John 
xiii.  27.  And  after  the  sop,  Satan  entered  into  him.  Then  said  Jesuj 
unto  him,  That  thou  doest,  do  quickly,  v.  30.  He  then,  having 
received  the  sop,  went  immediately  out. — 

y  Ezra  i<.  13.  And  after  all  that  is  come  upon  us  for  our  evil 
deeds,  and  for  our  great  trespass,  seeing  that  thou  our  God  hast 
punished  us  less  than  our  iniquities  deserve,  and  hast  given  us  such 
deliverance  a  this:  v.  14.  Should  we  again  break  thy  command- 
ments, and  join  in  affinity  with  the  people  of  these  abominations? 
wouldst  not  tiiou  be  angry  with  us  till  thou  hadst  consumed  us  r  — 

%  2  Sam.  xvi.  22  So  they  spread  Absalom  a  tent  upon  the  top 
of  the  house,  and  Absalom  went  in  into  his  father's  concubines,  in 
the  sight  of  all  Israel.  1  Sam.  ii.  22.  Now  Eli  was  very  old,  and 
heard  all  that  his  sons  did  unto  all  Israel,  and  how  they  lay  with  the 
women  that  assembled  at  the  door  of  the  tabernacle  of  the  congre- 
gation, v.  23.  And  he  said  unto  them,  Why  do  ye  such  things  r  for 
1  hear  of  your  evil  dealings,  by  ail  this  people,  v.  24.  Nay,  my 
:  for  it  i->  no  good  report  that  I  hear;  ye  make  the  Lord's  peo- 
■ 

i  52.  <7  fames  ii.  10.  For  whosoever  shall  keep  the  whole  law,  and 
vet  offend  in  one  point,  he  is  guilty  of  ah.  v.  n.  For  he  that  said, 
j)ci  noi  commit  adultery,  said  also,   Do  not  kill. — 

b  Exod.  xx.  1.  God  spake  all  these  words,  2.  Iamthe 

[I  \  v  rod  u  hich  have  brought  thee  out  of  th<  land  el  Egypt,  ou: 
of  the  hou  1 

j  Hub.  i.  13.    1     rt  of  purer  eyes  than  10  behold  evil,  and 


The  Larger  Catechism.  250 

fend  against  his  righteous  law,^/  deserveth  his 
wrath  and  curse,^  both  in  this  life,/'  and  that 
which  is  to  come  ;g  and  cannot  be  expiated  but  by 
the  blood  of  Christ./? 

Q^  153.  What  doth  God  require  of  us,  that  we 
may  escape  his  wrath  and  curse  due  to  us  by  reason 
of  the  transgression  of  the  law  f 

A.  That  we  may  escape  the  Wrath  and  curse 


canst  not  look  on  iniquity:  wherefore  lookest  thou  upon  them  that 
•deal  treacherously,  and  holdest  thy  tongue  when  the  wicked  devour- 
eth  the  man  that  is  more  righteous  than  he?  Lev.  x.  3.  Then  Moses 
said  unto  Aaron,  This  is  it  that  the  Lord  spake,  saying,  I  will  be 
sanctified  in  them  that  come  nigh  me,  and  before  all  the  people  I 
will  be  glorified. — Lev.  xi.  44.  For  I  am  the  Lord  your  God:  ye 
shall  therefore  san&ify  yourselves,  and  ye  shall  be  holy;  for  I  am 
holy:  neither  shall  ycu  defiie  yourselves  with  any  manner  of  creep- 
ing thing  that  creepeth  upon  the  earth,  v.  45.  For  I  am  the  Lord 
that  bringeth  you  up  out  of  the  land  of  Egypt,  to  be  your  God: 
ye  shall  therefore  be  holy,  for  I  am  holy. 

d  1  John  hi.  4.  Whosoever  committeth  sin,  transgresseth  also  the 
law:  for  sin  is  the  transgression  ofthelaw.  Rom.  vii.  12.  Wherefore 
the  law  is  holy;  and  the  commandment  holy,  and  just,  and  good. 

e  Eph.  v.  6.  Let  no  man  deceive  you  with  vain  words:  for  be- 
cause of  these  things  cometh  the  wrath  of  God  upon  the  children  of 
disobedience.  Gal.  iii.  10.  For  as  many  as  are  of  the  works  of  the 
law,  are  under  the  curse:  for  it  is  written,  Cursed  is  every  one  that 
continueth  not  in  all  things  which  are  written  in  the  book  of  the  law 
to  do  them. 

f  Lam.  iii.  39.  Wherefore  doth  a  living  man  complain,  a  man  for 
the  punishment  of  his  sins?  Deut.  xxviii.  from  verse  15  to  the  end. 
But  it  shall  come  to  pass,  if  thou  wilt  not  hearken  unto  the  voice  of 
the  Lord  thy  God,  to  observe  to  do  ail  his  commandments  and  his 
statutes  which  I  command  thee  this  day;  that  all  these  curses  shall 
come  upon  thee,  and  overtake  thee.  v.  16.  Cursed  shalt  thou  be  in 
the  city,  and  cursed  shalt  thou  be  in  the  field,  v.  17.  Cursed  shall 
be  thy  basket  and  thy  store,  &c. 

g  Mat.  xxv.  41. — Depart  from  me,  ye  cursed,  into  everlasting 
fire,  prepared  for  the  devil  and  his  angels. 

h  Heb.  ix.  22.  And  almost  all  things  are  by  the  law  pureed  with 
blood  ;  and  without  shedding  of  blood  is  no  remission.  1  Pet.  i.  1 8. 
Forasmuch  as  ye  know  that  ye  were  not  redeemed  with  corruptible 
things,  as  silver  and  gold,  from  your  vain  conversation  received  by 
tradition  from  your  fathers;  v.  19.  But  with  the  precious  blood  of 
Christ,  as  of  a  lamb  without  blemish  and  without  spot. 


360  The  Larger  Catech'hin. 

of  God  due  to  us  by  reason  of  the  transgression 
of  the  law,  he  requireth  of  us  repentance  toward 
God,  and  faith  toward  our  Lord  Jesus  Christ,/ 
and  the  diligent  use  of  the  outward  means  where- 
by Christ  communicates  to  us  the, benefits  of  his 
mediation./^ 

Q^  154.  What  are  the  outward  means  whereby 
Christ  communicates  to  us  the  benefits  0)  his  media- 
tion  ? 

A.  The  outward  and  ordinary  means  whereby 
Christ  communicates  to  his  church  the  benefits  of 
his  mediation,  are  all  his  ordinances;  especially 
the  word,  sacraments,  and  prayer :  all  which  are 
made  effectual  to  the  elect  for  their  salvation./ 

155.  i  Acts  xx.  21.  Testifying  both  to  the  Jews,  and  also  to  the 
Greeks,  repentance  toward  God,  and  faith  toward  our  Lord  Jesus 
Christ.  Mat.  iii.  7.  But  when  he  saw  many  of  the  Pharisees  and 
Sadduces  come  to  his  baptism,  he  baid  unto  them,  O  generation  of 
vipers,  who  hath  warned  you  to  lice  from  the  wrath  to  come?  y.  8. 
Bring  forth  therefore  fruits  meet  for  repentance.  Luke  xiii.  3,  5.  I 
tell  you,  Nay:  but  except  ye  repent,  ye  shall  all  likewise  perish. 
Aftsxvi.  30.  And  (the  jailor)  brought  them  out,  and  said,  Sirs,  what 
must  I  do  to  be  saved  ?  v.  31.  And  they  said,  Believe  on  the  Lord 
Jesus  Christ,  and  thou  shalt  be  saved,  and  thine  house.  John  iii. 
16.  For  God  so  loved  the  world,  that  he  gave  his  only  begotten  Son, 
that  whosoever  believeth  in  him,  should  not  perish,  but  have  ever- 
lasting life.  v.  18.  He  that  believeth  on  him,  is  not  condemned: 
but  he  that  believeth  not,  is  condemned  already. —  jfe 

k  Prov.  ii.  1.  My  son,  if  thou  wilt  receive  my  words,  andnide 
my  commandments  with  thee;  v.  2.  So  that  thou  incline  thine  ear 
unto  wisdom,  and  apply  thine  heart  to  understanding:  v.  3.  Yea,  if 
thou  chest  alter  knowledge,  and  liltest  up  thy  voice  for  understand- 
ing: v.  4.  If  thou  seekest  her  as  silver,  and  bearchest  for  her,  as  for 
hid  treasures:  v.  5.  Then  shalt  thou  understand  the  lear  of  the  Lord  ; 
and  find  the  knowledge  ot  God.  Prov.  viii.  33.  Hear  instruction, 
and  be  wise, and  refuse  it  not.  v.  34.  Lie, bed  is  tne  man  that  heareth 
me,  watching  daily  at  my  gates,  waiting  at  the  posts  of  my  doors. 
f.  v  For  whoso  findeth  me,  findeth  life,  and  shall  obtain  favour  of 
the  Lord.  v.  36.  But  he  that  sinneth  against  me,  wrongeth  his  own 
soul;  all  they  that  bate  me,  love  death. 

154.  /  Mat.  xwiii.  19.  Go  ye,  therefore,  and  teach  all  nations, 
baptizing  them  in  the  name  ol  the  Father,  and  of  the  Son,  and  of  the 
Holy  Ghost;  v.  20.  Teaching  them  to  o!  thing    whatsoever 


tfhe  Larger  Catechisih*  361 

Q.  155.  How  is  the  word  made  effectual  to  sal- 
vation f 

A.  The  Spirit  of  God  maketh  the  reading,  but 
especially  the  preaching  of  the  word,  an  effectual 
means  of  enlightening,;;?  convincing  and  hum- 
bling sinners  \n  of  driving  them  out  of  themselves, 
and  drawing  them  unto  Christ  \o  of  conforming 

I  have  commanded  you :  and  lo,  I  am  with  you  alway  even  unto 
the  end  of  the  world.  Acts  ii.  42.  And  they  continued  stedfastly  in 
the  apostles'  doctrine  and  fellowship,  and  in  breaking  of  bread,  and 
in  prayers,  v.  46.  And  they  continuing  daily  with  one  accord  in  the 
temple,  and  breaking  bread'from  house  to  house,  did  eat  their  meat 
with  gladness  and  singleness  of  heart;  v.  47.  Praising  God,  and 
having  favour  with  all  the  people.  And  the  Lord  added  to  the 
church  daily  such  as  should  be  saved. 

155.  m  Neh.  viii.  8.  So  they  read  in  the  book,  inthelaw  of  God 
distinctly,  and  gave  the  sense,  and  caused  them  to  understand  the 
reading.  Acts  xxvi.  18.  To  open  their  eyes,  and  to  turn  them  from 
darkness  to  light,  and  from  the  power  of  Satan  unto  God,  that  they 
may  receive  forgiveness  of  sins,  and  inheritance  among  them  which 
are  sanctified  by  faith  that  is  in  me.  Psal.  xix.  8. — The  command- 
ment of  the  Lord  is  pure,  enlightening  the  eyes. 

n  1  Cor.  xiv.  24.  But  if  all  prophesy,  and  there  come  in  one  that 
believeth  not,  or  one  unlearned,  he  is  convinced  of  all,  he  is  judged 
of  all:  v.  25.  And  thus  are  the  secrets  of  his  heart  made  manifest ; 
and  so,  falling  down  on  his  face,  he  will  worship  God,  and  report 
that  God  is  in  you  of  a  truth.  2  Chron.  xxxiv.  18.  Then  Shaphan 
the  scribe  told  the  king,  saying,  Hilkiah  the  priest  hath  given  me  a 
book.  And  Shaphan  read  it  before  the  king.  v.  19.  And  it  came 
lo  pass,  when  the  king  had  heard  the  words  of  the  law,  that  he  rent 
his  clothes,  v.  26.  And  as  for  the  king  of  Judah,  who  sent  you  to> 
inquire  of  the  Lord,  so  shall  ye  say  unto  him,  Thus  saith  the  Lord 
God  of  Israel  concerning  the  words  which  thou  hast  heard:  v.  27. 
Because  thine  heart  was  tender,  and  thou  didst  humble  thyself  before 
God,  when  thou  heardest  his  words  against  this  place,  and  against 
the  inhabitants  thereof,  and  humbledst  thyself  before  me,  and  didst 
rend  thy  clothes,  and  weep  before  me ;  I  have  even  heard  thee  also, 
said  the  Lord.  v.  28.  Behold,  I  will  gather  thee  to  thy  fathers,  and 
thou  shalt  be  gathered  to  thy  grave  in  peace. — 

0  Acts  ii.  37.  Now  when  they  heard  this,  they  were  pricked  in 
their  heart,  and  said  unto  Peter,  and  to  the  rest  of  the  apostles,  Men 
and  brethren,  what  shall  we  do?  v.  41.  Then  they  that  gladly  re- 
ceived his  word,  were  baptized :  and  the  same  day  there  were  added 
unto  them  about  three  thousand  souls.  Acts  viii.  from  verse  27  to 
39.  And  behold,  a  man  of  Ethiopia,  an  eunuch  of  great  authority,— 

zZ 


362  "T'he  Larger  Caiccfjisiu. 

them  to  his  image./)  and  subduing  them  to  hi: 
will;^  of  strengthening  them  against  temptations- 
and  corruptions  \r  of  building  them  up  in  grace,* 

v.  2S.  Was  returning,  and  sitting  in  his  chariot,  read  Esaias  the 
prophet,  v.  29.  Then  the  Spirit  said  unto  Philip,  Go  near,  and  join 
thyself  to  this  chariot,  v.  30.  And  Philip  ran  thither  to  him,  and 
heard  him  read  the  prophet  Esaias,  and  said,  Understandest  thou 
what  thou  readest? — v.  35.  Then  Philip  opened  his  mouth,  and  be- 
gan at  the  same  scripture,  and  preached  unto  him  Jesus,  v.  36. — 
And  the  eunuch  said,  See,  here  is  water ;  what  doth  hinder  me  to  be 
baptized?  v.  37.  And  Philip  said,  If  thou  believest  with  all  thine 
heart,  thou  mayest.  And  he  answered  and  said,  I  believe  that  Jesus 
Christ  is  the  Son  of  God.  v.  38. — And  they  went  down  both  into 
the  water,  both  Philip  and  the  eunuch,  and  he  baptized  him. 

//  2  Cor.  iii.  1  S.  ilut  we  all  with  open  lace,  beholding  as  in  a  glass 
the  glory  of  the  Lord,  are  changed  into  the  same  image,  from  glory 
to  glory,  even  as  by  the  Spirit  of  the  Lord. 

q  2  Cor.  x.  4.  For  the  weapons  of  our  warfare  are  not  carnal,  but 
mighty  through  God  to  the  pulling  down  of  strong  holds  :  v.  c.  Cast- 
ing down  imaginations,  and  every  high  thing  that  cxaltcth  itself  against 
the  knowledge  of  God,  and  bringing  into  captivity  every  thought  to 
the  obedience  of  Christ:  v.  6.  And  having  in  a  readiness  to  revenge 
all  disobedience,  when  your  obedience  is  fulfilled.  Rom.  vi. 
But  God  be  thanked,  that  ye  were  the  servants  of  sin;  but  ye  have 
obeyed  from  the  heart  that  form  of  doctrine  which  was  delivered  you. 

r  Mat.  iv.  4.  But  he  answered  and  said,  It  is  written,  Man  shall 
not  live  by  bread  alone,  but  by  every  word  that  proceedeth  out  of 
the  mouth  of  God.  v.  7.  Jesus  said  unto  him,  It  is  written  3gain, 
Thou  shalt  not  tempt  the  Lord  thy  God.  v.  10.  Then  saith  Jesus 
unto  him,  Get  thee  hence,  Satan  :  for  it  is  written,  Thou  shalt  wor- 
ship the  Lord  thy  God,  and  him  only  shalt  thou  serve.  Eph.  vi.  16. 
Above  all,  taking  the  shield  of  laith,  wherewith  ye  shall  be  able  to 
quench  all  the  fiery  darts  ol  the  wicked,  v.  1  7.  And  take  the  helmet 
of  salvation,  and  the  sword  of  the  Spirit,  which  is  the  word  of  God. 
Psal.  xix.  11.  Moreover,  by  them  is  thy  servant  warned:  and  in 
keeping  ol  them  there  is  great  reward.  1  Cor.  x.  11.  Now  all  these 
things  happened  unto  them  (or  ensamples;  and  they  are  written  J  or 
our  admonition,  upon  whom  the  ends  ol  the  word  are  come. 

s  Acts  xx.  32.  And  now,  brethren,  1  commend  you  to  God,  and 
to  the  word  of  his  grace,  which  is  able  to  build  you  up,  and  to  give 
you  an  inheritance  among  all  tin  in  which  are  sanctified.  2  Tim.  iii. 
15.  And  that  from  a  child  thou  hast  known  the  holy  scriptures, 
which  are  able  to  make  thee  wise  unto  salvation,  through  faith  which 
is  in  Christ  Jesus,  v.  16.  All  scripture  is  given  by  inspiration  of 
God,  and  u  profitable  for  doctrine,  i or  reproof,  tor  correction,  fo* 
instruction  in  righteousness:  v,  17.  That  the  man  ol  God  may  be 
perfect,  throughly  furnished  unto  all  good  works. 


tfhe  Larger  Catechism,  36$ 

attd  establishing  their  hearts  in  holiness  and  com- 
fort through  faith  unto  salvation./ 

Q.    156.  Is  the  word  of  God  to  be  read  by  all? 

A.  Although  all  are  not  to  be  permitted  to  read 
the  word  publicly  to  the  congregation,^  yet  all 

/  Rom.  xvi.  25.  Now  to  him  that  is  of  power  to  establish  you  ac- 
cording to  my  gospel,  and  the  preaching  of  Jesus  Christ,  according 
to  the  revelation  of  the  mystery,  which  was  kept  secret  since  the 
world  began,  i  Thess.  iii.  2.  And  sent  Timotheus  our  brother  and 
minister  of  God,  and  our  fellow-labourer  in  the  gospel  of  Christ,  to 
establish  you,  and  to  comfort  you  concerning  your  faith,  v.  10. 
Night  and  day  praying  exceedingly  that  we  might  see  your  face,  and 
might  perfect  that  which  is  lacking  in  your  faith,  v.  11.  Now  God 
himself,  and  our  Father,  and  our  Lord  Jesus  Christ,  direct  our  way 
unto  you.  v.  13.  To  the  end  he  may  stablish  your  hearts  unblame- 
able  in  holiness  before  God,  even  our  Father,  at  the  coming  of  our 
Lord  Jesus  Christ,  with  all  his  saints.  Rom.  xv.  4.  For  whatsoever 
things  were  written  aforetime,  were  written  for  our  learning;  that 
we,  through  patience  and  comfort  of  the  scriptures,  might  have  hope. 
Rom.  x.  13.  For  whosoever  shall  call  upon  the  name  of  the  Lord, 
shajl  be  saved,  v.  14.  How  then  shall  they  call  on  him  in  whom 
they  have  not  believed?  and  how  shall  they  believe  in  him  of  whom 
they  have  not  heard?  and  how  shall  they  hear  without  a  preacher? 
v.  15.  And  how  shall  they  preach,  except  they  be  sent?  as  it  is 
written,  How  beautiful  are  the  feet  of  them  that  preach  the  gospel  of 
peace,  and  bring  glad  tidings  of  good  things!  v.  16.  But  tney  have 
not  all  obeyed  the  gospel.  For  Esaias  saith,  Lord,  who  hath  believed 
our  report?  v.  17.  So  then,  faith  cometh  by  hearing,  and  hearing 
by  the  word  of  God.  Rom.  i.  16.  For  I  am  not  ashamed  of  the  gos- 
pel ot  Christ ;  for  it  is  the  power  of  God  unto  salvation,  to  every  one 
that  believeth,  to  the  Jew  first,  and  also  to  the  Greek. 

156.  v.  Deut.  xxxi.  9.  And  Moses  wrote  this  law,  and  delivered 
it  unto  the  priests  the  sons  of  Levi,  which  bare  the  ark  of  the  cove- 
nant of  the  Lord,  and  unto  all  the  elders  of  Israel,  v.  11.  When  all 
Israel  is  come  to  appear  before  the  Lord  thy  God,  in  the  place  which 
he  shall  choose  :  thou  shalt  read  this  law  before  all  Israel,  in  their 
hearing,  v.  12.  Gather  the  people  together,  men  and  women,  and 
children,  and  thy  stranger  that  is  within  thy  gates,  that  they  may  hear, 
and  that  they  may  learn,  and  fear  the  Lord  your  God,  and  observe 
to  do  all  the  words  of  this  law  :  v.  13.  And  that  their  children  which 
have  not  known  any  thing,  may  hear  and  learn  to  fear  the  Lord  your 
God,  as  long  as  ye  live  in  the  land  whither  ye  go  over  Jordan  to  pos- 
sess it.  Neh.  viii.  2.  And  Ezra  the  priest  brought  the  law  before  the 
congregation,  both  of  men  and  women,  and  all  that  could  hear  with 
understanding,  upon  the  first  day  of  the  seventh  month,  v.  3.  And 
he  read  therein  before  the  street  that  was  before  the  water-gate,  from 


364  7%e  Larger  Catechism. 

sorts  of  people  are  bound  to  read  it  apart  by 
themselveSjTc;  and  with  their  families:.*  to  which 
end,  the  holy  scriptures  are  to  be  translated  out 
of  the  original  into  vulgar  languages.^/ 

the  morning  until  mid-day,  before  the  men  and  the  women,  and 
those  that  could  understand;  and  the  ears  of  all  the  people  were  at- 
tentive unto  the  book  of  the  law.  Neh.  ix.  3.  And  they  stood  up  in 
their  place,  and  read  in  the  book  of  the  law  of  the  Lord  their  God, 
one  fourth  part  of  the  day,  and  another  fourth  part  they  confes- 
sed, and  worshipped  the  Lord  their  God.  v.  4.  Then  stood  up  upon 
the  stairs  of  the  Levites,  Jeshua,  and  Bani,  Idc.  and  cried  with  a  loud 
voice  unto  the  Lord  their  God.  v.  5.  Then  the  Levites,  Jeshua,  and 
Kadmiel,  CsY.  said,  Stand  up  and  bless  the  Lord  your  God  for  ever 
and  ever-  and  blessed  be  thy  glorious  name,  which  is  exalted  above 
.,  all  blessing  and  praise. 

iv  Deut.  xvii.  19.  And  it  shall  be  with  him,  and  he  shall  read 
therein  all  the  days  of  his  lire  :  that  he  may  learn  to  fear  the  Lord  his 
God,  to  keep  all  the  words  of  this  law,  and  these  statutes,  to  do  them. 
Rev.  i.  3.  Blessed  is  he  that  readeth,  and  they  thai  hear  the  words  of 
this  prophecy,  and  keep  those  things  which  are  written  therein:  for 
the  time  is  at  hand.  John  v.  39.  Search  the  scriptures,  for  in  them 
ye  think  ye  have  eternal  life,  and  they  are  they  which  testify  of  me. 
Isa.  xxxiv.  16.  Seek  ye  out  of  the  book  of  the  Lord,  and  read  :  no 
one  of  these  shall  fail. — 

x  Deut.  vi.  6.  And  these  words  which  I  command  thee  this  day, 
shall  be  in  thine  heart,  v.  7.  And  thou  shalt  teach  them  diligently 
unto  thy  children,  and  shalt  talk  of  them  when  thou  sittest  in  thine 
house,  and  when  thou  walkest  by  the  way,  and  when  thou  liestdown, 
and  when  thou  risest  up.  v.  8.  And  thou  shalt  bind  them  for  a  sign 
upon  thine  hand,  and  they  shall  be  as  frontlets  between  thine  eyes, 
v.  9.  And  thou  shalt  write  them  upon  the  posts  or  thy  house,  and  on 
thy  gates.  Gen.  xviii.  17.  And  the  Lord  said,  Shall  I  hide  from 
Abraham  that  thing  which  I  do?  v.  19.  For  I  know  him,  that  he 
will  command  his  children,  and  his  household  after  him,  and  they 
shall  keep  the  wnv  of  the  Lord  — Psal.  lxxviii.  5.  For  he  established 
a  testimony  in  Jacob,  and  appointed  a  law  in  Israel]  which  he  com- 
manded our  father?,  that  they  should  make  them  known  to  their 
children,  v.  0.  That  the  generations  to  come  might  know  them, 
<vtn  the  children  which  should  be  born:  who  should  arise  and  de- 
clare them  to  their  children  :  v.  7.  That  they  might  set  their  hope  in 
God,  and  not  forget  the  works  of  God:  but  keep  his  command- 
ments. 

y  1  Cor.  xiv.  6.  Now,  brethren,  if  I  come  unto  you  speaking 
with  tongues,  what  shall  I  profit  you,  except  I  shall  speak  to  you 
either  by  revelation,  or  by  knowledge,  or  by  prophesying,  or  by  doc- 
trine? v.  9.  So  likewise  you,  except  ye  utter  by  the  tongue  words 


*fhe  Larger  Catechism.  365 

Q.    157.  How  is  the  word  of  God  to  be  read? 

A.  The  holy  scriptures  are  to  be  read  with  an 
high  and  reverent  esteem  of  them  ;z  with  a  firm 
persuasion  that  they  are  the  very  word  of  God,a 

easy  to  be  understood,  how  shall  it  be  known  what  is  spoken  ?  for  ye 
shall  speak  into  the  air.  v.  1 1.  Therefore  if  1  know  not  the  mean- 
ing of  the  voice,  I  shall  be  unto  him  that  speaketh  a  barbarian; 
and  he  that  speaketh  shall  be  a  barbarian  unto  me.  v.  12.  Even  so 
ye,  forasmuch  as  ye  are  zealous  of  spiritual  gifts,  seek  that  ye  may  ex- 
cel to  the  edifying  of  the  church,  v.  15.  What  is  it  then  ?  I  will 
pray  with  the  spirit,  and  I  will  pray  with  the  understanding  also:  I 
will  sing  with  the  spirit,  and  I  will  sing  with  the  understanding  also, 
v.  16.  Else  when  thou  shalt  bless  with  the  spirit,  how  shall  he  that 
occupieth  the  room  of  the  unlearned,  say,  Amen,  at  thy  giving  of 
thanks,  seeing  he  understandeth  not  what  thou  sayest?  v.  24.  But  if 
all  prophesy,  and  there  come  in  one  that  believeth  not,  or  one  un- 
learned, he  is  convinced  of  all,  he  is  judged  of  all.  v.  27.  If  any 
man  speak  in  an  unknown  tongue,  let  it  be  by  two,  or  at  the  most 
by  three,  and  that  by  course?  and  let  one  interpret,  v.  28.  But  if 
there  be  no  interpreter,  let  him  keep  silence  in  the  church;  and  let 
him  speak  to  himself,  and  to  God. 

157.  z  Psal.  xix.  10.  More  to  be  desired  are  they  than  gold,  yea, 
than  much  fine  gold  :  sweeter  also  than  honey,  and  the  honey-comb. 
Neh.  viii.  3.  And  he  read  therein  before  the  street  that  was  before  the 
water-gate,  from  the  morning  until  mid-day,  before  the  men  and  the 
women,  and  those  that  could  understand ;  and  the  ears  of  all  the 
people  were  attentive  unto  the  book  of  the  law.  v.  4.  And  Ezra 
the  scribe  stood  upon  a  pulpit  of  wood,  which  they  had  made  for 
the  purpose. — v.  5.  And  Ezra  opened  the  book  in  the  sight  of  all 
the  people,  (for  he  was  above  all  the  people)  and  when  he  opened 
it,  all  the  people  stood  up:  v.  6.  And  Ezra  blessed  the  Lord,  the 
great  God:  and  all  the  people  answered,  Amen,  amen,  with  lifting 
up  their  hands :  and  they  bowed  their  heads,  and  worshipped  the 
Lord  with  their  faces  to  the  ground,  &c.  to  verse  10.  Exod.  xxiv.  7. 
And  he  (Moses)  took  the  book  of  the  covenant,  and  read  in  the  au- 
dience of  the  people:  and  they  said,  All  that  the  Lord  hath  said,  will 
we  do,  and  be  obedient.  2  Chron.  xxxiv.  27.  Because  thine  heart 
was  tender,  and  thou  didst  humble  thyself  before  God,  when  thou 
heardest  his  words  against  this  place,  and  against  the  inhabitants  there- 
of, and  humbledst  thyself  before  me,  and  didst  rend  thy  clothes,  and 
weep  before  me;  I  have  even  heard  thee  also,  saith  the  Lord.  Isa. 
lxvi.  2. — But  to  this  man  will  I  look,  even  to  him  that  is  poor  and 
or  a  contrite  spirit,  and  trembleth  at  my  word. 

»  2  Peter  i.  19.  We  have  also  a  more  sure  word  of  prophecy; 
whereunto  ye  do  well  that  ye  take  heed,  as  unto  a  light  thatshineth 
in  a  dark  place,  until  the  day  dawn,  and  the  day-star  arise  in  your 


366  tfhe  Larger  Catechism. 

and  that  he  onlv  can  enable  us  to  understand 
them;£  with  desire  to  know,  believe,  and  obey 
the  will  of  God  revealed  in  them  \c  with  dili- 
gence,^/ and  attention  to  the  matter  and  scope  of 
them  ;e  with  meditation/  application,^  self-de- 
nial,A  and  prayer./ 

hearts,  v.  20.  Knowing  this  first,  that  no  prophecy  of  the  scripture 
is  of  anv  private  interpretation,  v.  21.  lor  the  prophecy  came  not 
in  old  time  by  the  will  of  man  :  but  holy  men  of  God  spake  as  they 
were  moved  by  the  Holy  Ghost. 

b  Luke  xxiv.  45.  Then  opened  he  their  understanding,  that  they 
might  understand  the  scriptures.  2  Cor.  iii.  13.  And  not  as  Mosc:.. 
•which  put  a  vail  over  his  face,  that  the  children  of  Israel  could  not 
Btedfastly  look  to  the  end  of  that  which  is  abolished,  v.  14.  But  their 
minds  were  blinded:  for  until  this  dav  remaineth  the  same  vail  nn- 
raken  away,  in  the  reading  of  the  Old  Testament;  which  vail  is 
done  away  in  Christ,  v.  1;.  But  even  unto  this  day,  when  Moses 
is  read,  the  vail  is  upon  their  heart,  v.  16.  Nevertheless,  when  it 
shall  turn  to  the  Lord,  the  vail  shall  be  taken  ai 

c  Deut  xvii.  19.  And  it  shall  be  with  him,  and  he  shall  read  there- 
in all  the  days  of  his  life  :  that  he  may  learn  to  icar  the  Lord  his  God, 
to  keep  all  the  words  of  this  law,  and  these  statutes,  to  do  them :  v. 
20.  That  his  heart  be  not  lifted  up  above  his  brethren,  and  that  he 
turn  not  aside  from  the  commandment  to  the  right  hand  or  to  the  left ; 
to  the  end  that  he  may  prolong  his  days. — 

d  Acts  xvii.  11.  These  (Bereans)  were  more  noble  than  those  in 
Thessalonica,  in  that  they  received  the  word  with  all  readiness  of 
mind,  and  searched  the  scriptures  daily,  whether  those  things  were  so. 

e  Acts  viii.  30.  And  Philip  ran  thither  to  him,  and  heard  him  read 
the  prophet  Esaias,  and  said,  Understandest  thou  what  thou  readi 
v.  34.  And  the  eunuch  answered  Philip,  and  said,  1  pray  thee,  of 
•whom  speaketh  the  prophet  this?  of  himself,  or  ol  some  other  n 
Luke  x.  26.  PL  said  unto  him,  What  i^  written  in  the  law?  how 
readestthou?  v.  27.  And  he  answering,  said,  Thou  shalt  love  tin- 
Lord  thy  God  with  all  thy  heart,  and  with  all  thy  soul,  and  with  all 
thy  strength,  and  with  ail  tin  mind;  and  thy  neighbour  as  thyself. 
v.28.  And  he  said  unto  him,  Thou  hast  answered  right:  this  do,  and 
thou  shalt  live. 

/  Psal.  i.  2.  But  his  delight  is  in  the  law  of  the  Lord,  and  in  his 
law  doth  he  meditate  day  and  night.  PsaL  cxix.  97.  O  how  love  1 
thy  law  !   it  is  my  meditation  all  the  day. 

g  2  Chron.  xxxiv.  21.  Go,  inquire  of  the  Lord  for  me,  and  for 
them  that  are  left  in  [srael,  and  in  Judah,  concerning  the  words  of 

hook  that  is  found;  lor  great  is  tr.c  wrath  ot  the  Lord  tiv 
poured  out  upon  us,  because  our  fathers  have  not  kept  the  word  ei 
the  Lord,  to  do  alter  all  that  is  written  in  this  book. 


The  Larger  Catechism.  ^6y 

Q^  158.  By  whom  is  the  word  of  God  to  be 
preached? 

A.  The  word  of  God  is  to  be  preached  only  by 
such  as  are  sufficiently  gifted, >£  and  also  duly  ap- 
proved and  called  to  that  office./ 

h  Prov.  iii.  5.  Trust  in  the  Lord  with  all  thine  heart;  and  lean 
not  unto  thine  own  understanding.  Deut.  xxxiii.  5.  Yea,  he  loved 
the  people ;  all  his  saints  are  in  thy  hand  ;  and  they  sat  down  at  thy 
feet;  every  one  shall  receive  of  thy  words. 

i  Prov.  ii.  1.  My  son,  if  thou  wilt  receive  my  words,  and  hide 
my  commandments  with  thee;  v.  2.  So  that  thou  incline  thine  ear 
unto  wisdom,  and  apply  thine  heart  to  understanding:  v.  3.  Yea,  if 
thou  criest  after  knowledge,  and  liflest  up  thy  voice  for  understand- 
ing: v.  4  If  thou  seekest  her  as  silver,  and  searchest  for  her,  as  for 
hid  treasures  :  v.  5.  Then  shalt  thou  understand  the  fear  of  the  Lord ; 
and  find  the  knowledge  of  God.  v.  6.  For  the  Lord  giveth  wisdom  : 
out  of  his  mouth  cometh  knowledge  and  understanding.  Psal.  cxix. 
18.  Open  thou  thine  eyes,  that  I  may  behold  wondrous  things  out 
of  thy  law.  Neh.  viii.  6.  And  Ezra  blessed  the  Lord,  the  great  God: 
and  all  the  people  answered,  Amen,  amen,  with  lifting  up  their 
hands:  and  they  bowed  their  heads,  and  worshipped  the  Lord  with 
their  faces  to  the  ground,  v.  8.  So  they  read  in  the  bock,  in  the 
law  of  God  distinctly. — ■ 

158.  k  1  Tim.  iii.  2.  A  bishop,  then,  must  be  blameless,  the  hus- 
band of  one  wife,  vigilant,  sober,  of  good  behaviour,  given  to  hos- 
pitality, apt  to  teach  ;  v.  6.  Not  a  novice,  lest  being  lifted  up  with 
pride,  he  fall  into  the  condemnation  of  the  devil.  Eph.  iv.  S„ 
Wherefore  he  saith,  When  he  ascended  up  on  high,  he  led  captivity 
captive,  and  gave  gifts  unto  men.  v.  9.  (Now  that  he  ascended, 
what  is  it  but  that  he  also  descended  first  into  the  lower  parts  of  the 
earth  ?  v.  10.  He  that  descended,  is  the  same  also  that  ascended  up 
far  above  all  heavens,  that  he  might  fill  all  things.)  v.  11.  And  he 
gave  some,  apostles  ;  and  some,  prophets  ;  and  some,  evangelists  j 
and  some,  pastors  and  teachers.  Hos.  iv.  6.  My  people  are  destroy- 
ed for  lack  of  knowledge:  because  thou  hast  rejected  knowledge, 
I  will  also  reject  thee,  that  thou  shalt  be  no  priest  to  me:  seeing  thou 
hast  forgotten  the  law  of  thy  God,  1  will  also  forget  thy  children. 
Mai.  ii.  7.  For  the  priests'  lips  should  keep  knowledge,  and  they  should 
seek  the  law  at  his  mouth:  for  he  is  the  messenger  of  the  Lord  of 
hosts.  2  Cor.  iii.  6.  Who  also  hath  made  us  able  ministers  of  the 
New  Testament,  not  of  the  letter,  but  of  the  spirit :  for  the  letter 
killeth,  but  the  spirit  giveth  life. 

/  Jer.  xiv.  15.  Therefore  thus  saith  the  Lord  concerning  the  pro- 
phets that  prophesy  in  my  name,  and  I  sent  them  not. — Rom.  x.  15. 
And  how  shall  they  preach,  except  they  be  sent? — Heb.  v.  4.  And 
no  man  taketh  this  honour  unto  himself,  but  he  that  is  called  cf 


^58  The  Larger  Catechism. 

Q^  159.  How  is  the  word  of  God  to  be  preach" 
ed  by  those  that  are  called  thereunto? 

A.  They  that  are  called  to  labour  in  the  minis- 
try of  the  word,  are  to  preach  sound  doctrine,/;? 
diligently, n  in  season  and  out  of  season  ;o  plainly,* 
not  in  the  enticing  words  of  man's  wisdom,  but 
in  demonstration  of  the  Spirit,  and  of  power  ;q 
faithfully,/-  making  known  the  whole  counsel  of 
God;j  wisely,/  applying  themselves   to  the  ne- 

God,  as  was  Aaron.  1  Cor.  xii.  28.  And  God  hath  set  some  in  the 
church,  first  apostles,  secondarily  prophets,  thirdly  teachers,  after 
that  miracles,  then  gifts  of  healings,  helps,  governments,  diversities 
cf  tongues,  v.  29.  Are  all  apostles?  are  all  prophets?  are  all  teach- 
ers? are  all  workers  of  miracles?  1  Tim.  iii.  10.  And  let  these  also 
first  be  proved ;  then  let  them  use  the  office  of  a  deacon,  being  found 
blameless.  1  Tim.  iv.  14.  Neglect  not  the  gift  that  is  in  thee,  which 
was  given  thee  bv  prophecy,  with  the  laying  on  of  the  hands  of  the 
presbytery.  1  Tim.  v.  22.  Lay  hands  suddenly  on  no  man,  neither 
be  partaker  of  other  men's  sins  :  keep  thyself  pure. 

159.  m  Tit.  ii.  1.  But  speak  thou  the  things  which  become  sound 
doctrine,  v.  8.  SdOnd  speech  that  cannot  be  condemned ;  that  he. 
that  is  of  the  contrary  part  may  be  ashamed,  having  no  evil  thing  to 
say  of  you. 

n  A£ts  xviii.  25.  This  man  was  instructed  in  the  way  of  the  Lord; 
and  being  fervent  in  the  spirit,  he  spake  and  taught  diligently  the 
things  of  the  Lord. — 

0  2  Tim.  iv.  2.  Preach  the  word,  be  instant  in  season,  out  of  sea- 
son ;  reprove,  rebuke,  exhort  with  all  long-suffering  and  doctrine. 

/;  1  Cor.  xiv.  19.  Yet  in  the  church  I  had  rather  speak  five  words 
with  my  understanding,  that  by  my  voice  I  might  teach  others  also, 
than  ten  thousand  words  in  an  unknown  tongue. 

a  1  Cor.  ii.  4.  And  my  speech,  and  my  preaching,  was  not  with 
enticing  words  of  man's  wisdom,  but  in  demonstration  of  the  Spirit, 
and  of  power. 

r  Jer.  xxiii.  28.  The  prophet  that  hath  a  dream,  let  him  tell  a 
dream;  and  he  that  hath  my  word,  let  him  speak  niv  word  faithfully  : 
what  is  the  chaff  to  the  wheat?  sritb  the  Lord.  1  Cor.  iv.  1.  Let  a 
man  so  account  of  us,  as  of  the  ministers  of  Christ,  and  stewards  of 
the  mysteries  of  God.  v.  2.  Moreover,  it  is  required  in  stewards, 
that  a  man  be  found  faithful. 

s  Acts  xx.  27.  Fori  have  not  shunned  to  declare  unto  you  all  the 
counsel  of  God. 

/  Col.  i.  28.  Whom  we  preach,  warning  every  man,  and  teach- 
ing every  man  in  all  wisdom ;  that  wc  may  present  every  man  per- 


f'/je  Larger  Catechism.  369 

cessittes  and  capacities  of  the  hearers yo  zealous- 
ly^ with  fervent  love  to  God  x  and  the  souls  of 
his  people;^   sincerely,^   aiming  at  his  glory,# 

fe&  in  Christ  Jesus.  2  Tim.  ii.  15.  Study  to  shew  thyself  approved 
unto  God,  a  workman  that  needeth  not  to  be  ashamed,  rightly  di- 
viding the  word  of  truth. 

v  1  Cor.  iii.  2.  I  have  fed  you  with  milk,  and  not  with  meat:  for 
hitherto  ye  were  not  able  to  bear  it,  neither  yet  now  are  ye  able. 
Heb.  v.  12.  For  when  for  the  time  ye  ought  to  be  teachers,  ye  have 
need  that  one  teach  you  again  which  be  the  first  principles  of  the  ora- 
cles of  God;  and  are  become  such  as  have  need  of  milk,  and  not  of 
strong  meat.  v.  13.  For  every  one  that  useth  milk  is  unskilful  in 
the  word  of  righteousness:  for  he  is  a  babe.  v.  14.  But  strong  meat 
belongeth  to  them  that  are  of  full  age,  even  those  who  by  reason  of 
use  have  their  senses  exercised  to  discern  both  good  and  evil.  Luke 
xii.  42.  And  the  Lord  said,  Who  then  is  that  faithful  and  wise  stew- 
ard, whom  his  lord  shall  make  ruler  over  his  household,  to  give 
them  their  portion  of  meat  in  due  season? 

w  Acts  xviii.  25.  This  man  was  instructed  in  the  way  of  the 
Lord :  and  being  fervent  in  the  spirit,  he  spake  and  taught  diligently 
the  things  of  the  Lord. — 

x  2  Cor.  5.  1 3.  For  whether  we  be  besides  ourselves,  it  is  to  God: 
or  whether  we  be  sober,  it  is  for  your  cause,  v.  14.  For  the  love  of 
Christ  constraineth  us,  because  we  thus  judge,  that  if  one  died  for 
all,  then  were  all  dead.  Phil.  i.  15.  Some  indeed  preach  Christ  even 
of  envy  and  strife;  and  some  also  of  good-will:  v.  16.  The  one 
preach  Christ  of  contention,  not  sincerely,  supposing  to  add  afflic- 
tion to  my  bonds:  v.  17.  But  the  other  of' love,  knowing  that  I  am 
set  for  the  defence  of  the  gospel. 

y  Col.  iv.  12.  Epaphras,  who  is  one  of  you,  a  servant  of  Christ, 
saluteth  you,  always  labouring  fervently  for  vou  in  pravers,  that  ye 
may  stand  perfect,  and  complete  in  all  the  will  of  God. '  2  Cor.  xii. 
15.  And  I  will  very  gladly  spend  and  be  spent  for  you,  though  the 
more  abundantly  I  love  you,  the  less  I  be  loved. 

%  2  Cor.  ii.- 1  7.  For  we  are  not  as  many,  which  corrupt  the  word 
of  God :  but  as  of  sincerity,  but  as  of  God',  in  the  sight  of  God  speak 
we  in  Christ.  2  Cor.  iv.  2.  But  have  renounced  the  hidden  things 
of  dishonesty,  not  walking  in  craftiness,  nor  handling  the  word  of 
God  deceitfully,  but  by  manifestation  of  the  truth,  commending 
ourselves  to  every  man's  conscience  in  the  sight  of  God. 

a  1  Thess.  ii.  4.  But  as  we  were  allowed  of  God  to  be  put  in  trust 
with  the  gospel,  even  so  we  speak,  not  as  pleasing  men,  but  God, 
which  trieth  our  hearts,  v.  5.  For  neither  at  any  time  used  we  flattering 
words,  as  ye  know,  nor  a  cloke  of  covetousness :  God  is  witness, 
v.  6.  Nor  of  men  sought  we  glory,  neither  of  you,  nor  yet  of  others, 
when  we   might  have  been  burdensome,  as  the  apostles  of  Christ. 


3  ~o  Ihe  Larger  Catechism. 

and  their  conversion,/'  edification,*;  and  salva- 
tion.^/ 

Q.  1 60.  What  is  required  of  those  that  hear  the 
ivord  preached? 

A.  It  is  required  of  those  that  hear  the  word 
preached,  that  they  attend  upon  it  with  diligence, c 
preparation,/'  and  prayer  :g  examine  what  they 

John  vii.  18.  He  tli.it  spcaketh  of  himself,  sceketh  his  own  glory: 
but  he  that  seeketh  his  glory  that  sent  him,  the  same  is  true,  and  no 
unrighteousness  is  in  him. 

b  1  Cor.  ix.  19.  For  though  I  be  free  from  all  men,  yet  have  I 
made  myself  servant  unto  all,  that  I  might  gain  the  more.  v.  20. 
And  unto  the  Jews  I  became  as  a  Jew,  that  I  might  gain  the  Jews; 
to  them  that  are  under  the  law,  as  under  the  law,  that  I  might  gain 
them  that  are  under  the  law  ;  v.  21.  To  them  that  are  without  law, 
as  without  law,  (being  not  without  law  to  God,  but  under  the  lav/ 
to  Christ)  that  I  might  gain  them  that  are  without  law.  v.  22. 
To  the  weak  became  I  as  weak,  that  I  might  gain  the  weak  :  I  am 
made  all  things  to  all  men,  that  1  might  by  all  means  save  some. 

c  2  Cor.  xii.  19.  Again,  think  you  that  we  excuse  ourselves  unto 
you?  we  speak  before  God  in  Christ:  but  we  do  all  things,  dearly 
beloved,  for  your  edifying.  Eph.  iv.  12.  For  the  perfecting  of  the 
saints,  lor  the  work  olthe  ministry,  for  the  edifying  of  the  body  of 
Christ. 

d  1  Tim.  iv.  16.  Take  heed  unto  thyself,  and  unto  thy  doctrine; 
continue  in  them:  for  in  doing  this,  thou  shalt  both  save  thyself,  and 
them  that  hear  thee.  Acts  xxvi-.  16.  But  rise,  and  stand  upon  thy 
feet:  for  I  have  appeared  unto  thee  for  this  purpose,  to  make  thee  a 
minister  and  a  witness  both  of  these  things  which  thou  bast  seen,  and 
of  those  things  in  the  which  I  will  appear  unto  thee;  v.  17.  Deliver- 
ing thee  from  the  people,  and  from  the  Gentiles,  unto  whom  now  I 
send  thee,  v.  18.  To  open  their  eyes,  and  to  turn  them  from  dark- 
ness to  light,  and  from  the  power  of  ixitan  unto  God,  that  they  may 
receive  forgiveness  of  sins,  and  inheritance  among  them  which  arc 
sanctified  by  faith  that  is  in  me. 

160.  e  Prov.  viii.  34.  Blessed  is  the  man  that  heareth  me,  watch- 
ing daily  at  my  gates,  waiting  at  the  post  of  my  doors. 

f  1  Peter  ii.  1.  Wherefore,  hying  aside  all  malice,  and  nil  guile, 
and  hypocrisies,  and  envies,  and  all  evil-speakings,  v.  2.  As  new  born 
babes  desire  the  sincere  milk  of  the  word,  that  ye  may  grow  rlurc- 
by.  Luke  viii.  18.  Take  heed,  therefore,  how  ye  hear:  lor  whoso- 
ever hath,  to  him  shall  be  given  ;  and  whosoever  hath  not,  from  him 
shall  be  taken  even  that  which  he  seemcth  to  have. 

g  Psal.cxix.  18.  Open  thou  mine  eyes,  lhat  I  may  behold  won- 
drous things  out  of  thy  law.     Eph.  vi.  18.  Praying  always  with  all 


7 he  Larger  Catechism.  371 

hear  by  the  scriptures  ;h  receive  the  truth  with 
faith,/  love,/6  meekness,/  and  readiness  of  mind,;# 
as  the  word  of  God;;?  meditate, 0  and  confer  of 
it  ;p  hide  it  in  their  hearts,^  and  bring  forth  the 
fruit  of  it  in  their  lives.7' 

prayer  and  supplication  in  the  Spirit,  and  watching  thereunto  with 
all  perseverance,  and  supplication  for  all  saints;  v.  19.  And  for  me, 
that  utterance  may  be  given  unto  me,  that  I  may  open  mv  mouth 
boldly,  to  make  known  the  mystery  of  the  gospel. 

//  Acts  xvii.  1 1.  These  were  more  noble  than  those  in  Thessalo- 
nica,  in  that  they  received  the  word  with  all  readiness  of  mind,  and 
searched  the  scriptures  daily,  whether  those  things  were  so. 

1  Heb.  iv.  2.  For  unto  us  was  the  gospel  preached,  as  well  as  unto 
them:  but  the  word  preached  did  not  profit  them,  not  being  mixed 
with  faith  in  them  that  heard  it. 

k  2  Thess.  ii.  10.  And  with  all  deceivableness  of  unrighteousness, 
in  them  that  perish;  because  they  received  not  the  love  of  the  truth  j 
that  they  might  be  saved. 

/  James  i.  2 1.  Wherefore  lay  apart  all  filthiness  and  superfluity  of 
naughtiness,  and  receive  with  meekness  the  ingrafted  word,  which 
is  able  to  save  your  souls. 

m  Acts  xvii.  11.  These  were  more  noble  than  those  in  Thessalo- 
nica,  in  that  they  received  the  word  with  all  readiness  of  mind,  and 
searched  the  scriptures  daily,  whether  those  things  were  so. 

n  1  Thess.  ii.  13.  For  this  cause  also  thank  we  God  without  ceas- 
ing, because  when  ye  received  the  word  of  God  which  ye  heard  of 
us,  ye  received  it  not  as  the  word  of  men,  but  (as  it  is  in  truth)  the 
word  of  God,  which  effectually  worketh  also  in  you  that  believe. 

0  Luke  ix.  44.  Let  these  sayings  sink  down  into  your  ears :  for 
the  Son  of  man  shall  be  delivered  into  the  hands  of  men.  Heb.  ii.  1. 
Therefore  we  ought  to  give  the  more  earnest  heed  to  the  things  which 
we  have  heard,  lest  at  any  time  we  should  let  them  slip. 

//  Luke  xxiv.  14.  And  they  talked  together  of  all  these  things 
which  had  happened.  Deut.  vi.  6.  And  these  words  which  I  com- 
mand thee  this  day,  shall  be  in  thine  heart,  v.  7.  And  thou  shalt 
teach  them  diligently  unto  thy  children ;  and  shalt  talk  of  them  when 
thou  sittest  in  thine  house,  and  when  thou  walkest  by  the  way,  and 
when  thou  liest  down,  and  when  thou  risest  up. 

q  Prov.  ii.  1.  My  son,  if  thou  wilt  receive  my  word-;,  and  hide 
my  commandments  with  thee.  Psal.  cxix.  11.  Thy  word  have  I  hid 
in  mine  heart,  that  I  might  not  sin  against  thee. 

r  Luke  viij.  1  .j.  Eat  that  on  the  good  ground,  are  they,  which 
in  an  honest  and  good  heart,  having  heard  the  word,  keep  it,  and, 
bring  forth  fruit  with  patience.  James  i.  25.  But  whoso  looketh 
into  the  perfect  law  of  liberty,  and  continueth  therein,  he  being  not 
a  forgetful  hearer,  but  a  doer  of  the  work,  this  man  shall  be  blessed. 
in  hii  deed. 


3J2  The  Larger  Catechism. 

Q^  1 6 1 .  How  do  the  sacraments  become  effectual 
means  of  salvation? 

A.  The  sacraments  become  effectual  means  of 
salvation,  not  by  any  power  in  themselves,  or 
any  virtue  derived  from  the  piety  or  intention  of 
him  by  whom  they  are  administered ;  but  only  by 
the  working  of  the  Holy  Ghost,  and  the  blessing 
of  Christ,  by  whom  they  are  instituted.! 

Q^i62.  What  is  a  sacrament? 

A.  A  sacrament  is  an  holy  ordinance  institut- 
ed by  Christ  in  his  church,/  to  signify,  seal,  and 
exhibit  v  unto  those  that  are  within  the  covenant 

161.  t  1  Peter  iii.  21.  The  like  figure  whereunto,  even  baptism, 
doth  also  now  save  us,  (not  the  putting  away  of  the  filth  of  the  flesh, 
but  the  answer  of  a  good  conscience  towards  God)  by  tiie  resurrtc- 
tion  of  Jesus  Christ.  A<5b  viii.  13.  Then  Simon  himself  believed 
also:  and  when  he  was  baptized,  he  continued  with  Philip,  and 
wondered,  beholding  the  miracles  and  signs  which  were  done.  Com- 
pared with  v.  23.  For  I  perceive,  said  Peter  to  Simon,  that  thou  art 
in  the  gall  of  bitterness,  and  in  the  bond  of  iniquity.  1  Cor.  iii.  6. 
I  have  planted,  Apollos  watered  :  but  God  gave  the  increase,  v.  7. 
So  then,  neither  is  he  that  planteth  any  thing,  neither  he  that  water- 
eth:  but  God  that  giveth  the  increase.  1  Cor.  xii.  13.  For  by  one 
Spirit  are  we  all  baptized  into  one  body,  whether  we  be  Jews  or  Gen- 
tiles, whether  we  be  bond  or  free  ;  and  have  been  all  made  to  drink 
into  one  Spirit. 

162.  /  Gen.  xvii.  7.  And  I  will  establish  my  covenant  between 
me  and  thee,  and  thy  seed  after  thee  in  their  generations,  for  an 
everlasting  covenant;  to  be  a  God  unto  thee  and  to  thy  seed  after 
thee.  v.  10.  This  is  my  covenant  which  ye  shall  keep  between  me, 
and  you,  and  thy  seed  after  thee;  Every  man  child  among  you  shall 
be  circumcised.  Exod.  ch.  xii.  Containing  the  institution  of  the  pas- 
sover.  Mat.  xxviii.  19.  Go  ye,  therefore,  and  teach  all  nations,  bap- 
tizing them  in  the  name  of  the  Father,  and  of  the  Son,  and  of  the 
Holy  Ghost.  Mat.  xxvi.  26.  And  as  they  were  eating,  Jesus  took 
bread,  and  blessed  it,  and  brake  it,  and  gave  it  to  the  disciples,  and 
said,  Take,  eat;  this  is  my  body.  v.  27.  And  he  took  the  cup,  and 
gave  thanks,  and  gave  it  to  them,  saying,  Drink  ye  all  of  it :  v.  28. 
For  this  is  my  blood  of  the  New  Testament,  which  is  shed  for  many, 
for  the  remission  of  sins. 

v  Rom.  iv.  11.  And  he  received  the  sign  of  circumcision,  a  seal 
of  the  righteousness  of  the  faith  which  he  had  yet  being  uncircum- 
cised ;  that  he  might  be  the  father  of  all  them  that  believe,  though 


The  Larger  Catechism.  37  3 

of  grace, u>  the  benefits  of  his  mediation; x  to 
strengthen  and  increase  their  faith,  and  all  other 
graces  ;jy  to  oblige  them  to  obedience  ;z  to  testi- 
fy and  cherish  their  love  and  communion  one 
with  another  ;a  and  to  distinguish  them  from 
those  that  are  without. £ 


they  be  not  circumcised  ;  that  righteousness  might  be  imputed  unto 
them  also,  i  Cor.  xi.  24.  And  when  he  had  given  thanks,  he  brake 
St,  and  said,  Take,  eat;  this  is  my  body,  which  is  broken  for  you: 
this  do  in  remembrance  of  me.  v.  25.  After  the  same  manner  also 
he  took  the  cup  when  ne  had  supped,  saying,  This  cup  is  the  New 
Testament  in  my  blood:  this  do  ye,  as  oft  as  ye  drink  it,  in  re- 
membrance of  me. 

in  Rom.  xv.  8.  Now  I  say,  that  Jesus  Christ  was  a  minister  of 
the  circumcision  for  the  truth  of  God,  to  confirm  the  promises  made 
unto  the  fathers.  Exod.  xii.  48.  And  when  a  stranger  shall  sojourn 
with  thee,  and  will  keep  the  passover  to  the  Lord,  let  all  his  males 
be  circumcised,  and  then  let  him  come  near  and  keep  it;  and  he 
shall  be  as  one  that  is  born  in  the  land :  for  no  uncircumcised  person 
shall  eat  thereof. 

.v  Acts  ii.  38.  Then  Peter  said  unto  them,  Repent,  and  be  bap- 
tized every  one  of  you  in  the  name  of  Jesus  Christ,  for  the  remis- 
sion of  sins,  and  ye  shall  receive  the  gift  of  the  Holy  Ghost,  r 
Cor.  x.  16.  The  cup  of  blessing  which  we  bless,  is  it  not  the  com- 
munion of  the  blood  of  Christ?  The  bread  which  we  break,  is  it 
not  the  communion  of  the  body  of  Christ? 

y  Rom.  iv.  11.  (See  in  v  above).  Gal.  iii.  27.  For  as  many  of 
you  as  have  been  baptized  into  Christ,  have  put  on  Christ. 

z  Rom.  vi.  3.  Know  ye  not  that  so  many  of  us  as  were  baptized 
into  Jesus  Christ,  were  baptized  into  his  death?  v.  4.  Therefore 
we  are  buried  with  him  by  baptism  into  death:  that  like  as  Christ 
was  raised  up  from  the  dead  by  the  glory  of  the  Father,  even  so  we 
also  should  walk  in  newness  of  life.  1  Cor.  x.  21.  Ye  cannot  drink 
the  cup  of  the  Lord  and  the  cup  of  devils :  ye  cannot  be  partakers 
of  the  Lord's  table  •and  of  the  table  of  devils. 

a  Eph.  iv.  2.  With  all  lowliness  and  meekness,  with  long-suffer- 
ing, forbearing  one  another  in  love;  v.  3.  Endeavouring  to  keep 
the  unity  of  the  Spirit  in  the  bond  of  peace,  v.  4.  There  is  one 
body,  and  one  Spirit,  even  as  ye  are  called  in  one  hope  of  your 
calling:  v.  5.  One  Lord,  one  faith,  one  baptism.  1  Cor.  xii.  13. 
For  by  one  Spirit  are  we  all  baptized  into  one  body,  whether  we  be 
Jews  or  Gentiles,  whether  we  be  bond  or  free:  and  have  been  all 
made  to  drink  into  one  Spirit. 

b  Eph.  ii.  n.  Wherefore  remember  that  ye  being  in  time  passed 
Gentiles  in  the  flesh,  who  are  called  uncircu incision  by  that  which 


3/  r  ^hc  Larger  Catechism. 

Q^   163.  What  arc  the  parts  of  a  sacrament? 

A.  The  parts  of  a  sacrament  are  two ;  the  one 
an  outward  and  sensible  sign,  used  according  to 
Christ's  own  appointment ;  the  other  an  inward 
and  spiritual  grace  thereby  signified.*; 

Q^  164.  Hczv  many  sacraments  hath  Christ  in- 
stituted  in  his  church  under  the  New  'Testament? 

A.  Under  the  New  Testament  Christ  hath  in- 
stituted in  his  church  only  two  sacraments,  Bap- 
tism and  the  Lord's  supper.^/ 

Q^  165.  What  is  Baptism? 

A.  Baptism  is  a  sacrament  of  the  New  Testa- 
ment, wherein  Christ  hath  ordained  the  washing: 
with  water  in  the  name  of  the  Father,  and  of  the 
Son,  and  of  the  Holy  Ghosts  to  be  a  sign  and 

is  called  the  circumcision  in  the  flesh  made  by  hinds  j  v.  12.  That 
art  that  time  ye  were  without  Christ,  being  aliens  from  the  com- 
monwealth of  Israel,  and  strangers  from  the  covenants  of"  promise; 
having  no  hope,  and  without  God  in  the  world.  Gen.  xxxiv.  14. 
And  they  said  unto  them,  we  cannot  do  this  thing,  to  give  our  sister 
to  one  that  is  uncircumcised  :  for  that  were  a  reproach  unto  us. 

163.  c  Mat.  iii.  11.  I  indeed  baptize  you  with  water  unto  re- 
pentance, but  he  that  cometh  after  me  is  mightier  than  1,  whose 
shoes  I  am  not  worthy  to  bear:  he  shall  baptize  you  with  the  Holy 
Ghost  and  with  fire.  1  Pet.  iii.  21.  The  like  figure  whereunto,  even 
baptism,  doth  also  now  save  us,  (not  the  putting  away  the  filth  of 
the  flesh,  but  the  answer  of  a  good  conscience  towards  God)  by 
the  resurrection  of  Jesus  Christ.  Rom.  ii.  2S.  For  he  is  not  a  }c\v 
which  is  one  outwardly;  neither  is  that  circumcision  which  is  out- 
ward in  the  flesh:  v.  29.  But  he  is  a  few  who  is  one  inwardly;  and 
circumcision  is  that  ot  the  heart,  in  the  spirit,  and  not  in  the  letter, 
whose  praise  is  not  of  men,  but  of  God. 

164.  d  Mat.  xxviii.  19.  Go  ye,  therefore,  and  teach  all  nations, 
baptizing  them  in  the  name  of  the  father,  and  of  the  Son,  and  of 
the  HdIv  Ghost.  1  Cor.  xi.  20.  When  ye  come  together,  therefore, 
into  one  place,  this  is  not  10  eat  the  Lord's  supper,  v.  23.  For 
I  have  received  of  the  Lord  that  which  also  I  delivered  unto  you, 
That  the  Lord  Jesus,  the  same  night  in  whicli  he  was  betrayed,  took, 
bread.     Mat.  xxvi.  26,  27,  2S.  (See  above  in  /). 

165.  e  Mat.  xxviii.  n).  Go  ye,  therefore,  >nd  teach  all  nations, 
baptizing  them  in  the  name  of  the  Father,  and  of  the  bun,  and  of 
t:i:  Holy  Ghost. 


*fhe  Larger  Catechism*  375 

seal  of  ingrafting  into  himself,/*  of  remission  of 
sins  by  his  bloody  and  regeneration  by  his  Spirit  \h 
of  adoption,/  and  resurrection  unto  everlasting 
life  \k  and  whereby  the  parties  baptized  are  so- 
lemnly admitted  into  the  visible  church,/  and  en- 
ter into  an  open  and  professed  engagement  to  be 
wholly  and  only  the  Lord's.^ 

Q^i66.  Unto  whom  is  baptism  to  be  adminis* 
tered? 

A.  Baptism  is  not  to  be  administered  to  any 
that  are  out  of  the  visible  church,  and  so  stran- 
gers from  the  covenant  of  promise,  till  they  pro- 
fess their  faith  in  Christ,  and  obedience  to  him  ;n 


f  Gal.  iii.  27.  For  as  many  of  you  as  have  been  baptized  into 
Christ,  have  put  on  Christ. 

g  Mark  i.  4.  John  did  baptize  in  the  wilderness,  and  preach  the 
baptism  of  repentance,  for  the  remission  of  sins.  Rev.  i.  5. — Unto 
him  that  loved  us,  and  washed  us  from  our  sins  in  his  own  blood. 

h  Tit.  iii.  5."  Not  by  works  of  righteousness  which  we  have 
done,  but  according  to  his  mercy  he  saved  us,  by  the  washing  of  re- 
generation, and  renewing  of  the#Holy  Ghosr.  Eph.  v.  26.  That 
he  might  sanctify  and  cleanse  it  with  the  washing  of  water  by  the 
word. 

i  Gal.  iii.  26.  For  ye  are  all  the  children  of  God  by  faith  in 
Christ  Jesus,  v.  27.  For  as  many  of  you  as  have  been  baptized  into 
Christ,  have  put  on  Christ. 

k  1  Cor.  xv.  29.  Else  what  shall  they  do  which  are  baptized  for 
the  dead,  if  the  dead  rise  not  at  all  ?  why  are  they  then  baptized  for 
the  dead?  Rom.  vi.  5.  For  if  we  have  been  planted  together  in  the 
likeness  of  his  death,  we  shall  be  also  in  the  likeness  of  his  resur- 
rection. 

/  1  Cor.  xii.  13.  For  by  one  Spirit  are  we  ail  baptized  into  one 
body,  whether  we  be  Jews  or  Gentiles,  whether  we  be  bond  or  free; 
and  have  been  all  made  to  drink  into  one  Spirit. 

m  Rom.  vi.  4.  Therefore  we  are  buried  with  him  bv  baptism  into 
death :  that  like  as  Christ  was  raised  up  from  the  dead  by  the  glory 
of  the  Father,  even  so  we  also  should  walk  in  newness  of  life. 

166.  n  Acts  viii.  36.  And  as  they  went  on  their  way,  they  came 
unto  a  certain  water :  and  the  eunuch  said,  See,  here  is  water;  what 
doth  hinder  me  to  be  baptized?  v.  37.  And  Philip  said,  If  thou 
believest  with  all  thine  heart,  thou  mavest.  And  he  answered  and 
said,  I  believe  that  Jesus  Christ  is  the  Son  of  God.     Acbii.  38. 


376  T'he  Larger  Catechism, 

but  infants,  descending  from  parents,  either  both 
or  but  one  of  them,  professing  faith  in  Christ  and 
obedience  to  him,  are,  in  that  respect,  within  the 
covenant,  and  to  be  baptized.o 

Q^i  67.  How  is  our  baptism  to  be  improved  by  us  f 

Then  Peter  said  unto  them,  Repent,  and  be  baptized  every  one  of 
you  in  the  name  of  Jesus  Christ,  for  the  remission  of  sins,  and  ye 
shall  receive  the  gift  of  the  Holy  Ghost. 

0  Gen.  xvii.  7.  And  I  will  establish  my  covenant  between  me  and 
thee,  and  thy  seed  after  thee  in  their  generations,  for  an  everlasting 
-covenant;  to  be  a  God  unto  thee,  and  to  thy  seed  after  thee.  v.  9. 
And  God  said  unto  Abraham,  Thou  shalt  keep  my  covenant  there- 
fore, thou,  and  thy  seed  after  thee  in  their  generations.  Compared 
with  Gal.  hi.  9.  So,  then,  they  which  be  of  faith  are  blessed  with 
faithful  Abraham,  v.  14.  That  the  blessing  of  Abraham  might 
come  on  the  Gentiles  through  Jesus  Christ;  that  we  might  receive 
the  promise  of  the  Spirit  through  faith.  And  with  Col.  ii.  11.  In 
whom  also  ye  are  circumcised  with  the  circumcision  made  without 
hands,  in  putting  oft  the  body  of  the  sins  of  the  flesh,  by  the  cir- 
cumcision of  .Christ:  v.  12.  Buried  with  him  in  baptism,  wherein 
also  you  are  risen  with  him  through  the  faith  of  the  operation  of 
God,  who  hath  raised  him  from  the  dead.  And  with  Acts  ii.  38. 
Then  Peter  said  unto  them,  Repent,  and  be  baptized  every  one  of 
you  in  the  name  of  Jesus  Christ,  for  the  remission  of  sins,  and  ye 
shall  receive  the  gift  of  the  Holy  Chose,  v.  39.  For  the  promise  is 
unto  you,  and  to  your  children,  and  to  all  that  are  afar  off,  even  as 
many  as  the  Lord  our  God  shall  call.  And  with  Rom.  iv.  1 1.  And 
he  received  the  sign  of  circumcision,  a  seal  of  the  righteousness  of 
the  faith  which  he  had  yet  being  uncircumcised :  that  he  might  be 
the  father  of  all  them  that  believe,  though  they  be  not  circumcised; 
that  righteousness  might  be  imputed  unto  them  also:  v.  12.  And 
the  father  of  circumcision  to  them  who  are  not  of  the  circumcision 
only,  but  also  walk  in  the  steps  of  that  faith  of  our  father  Abra- 
ham, which  he  had  being  yet  uncircumcised.  1  Cor.  vii.  14. 
For  the  unbelieving  husband  ^s  sanctified  by  the  wife,  and  the  unbe- 
lieving wile  is  sanctified  by  the  husband;  else  were  your  children 
unclean;  but  now  are  they  holy.  Mat.  xxviii.  ig.  Go  ye,  therefore, 
and  teach  all  nations,  baptizing  them  in  the  name  of  the  Father, 
and  of  the  Son,  and  ot  the  Holy  Ghost.  Luke  xviii.  15.  And  they 
brought  unto  him  also  infants,  that  he  would  touch  them;  but  when 
his  disciples  saw  it,  they  rebuked  them.  v.  16.  But  Jesus  called 
them  unto  him,  and  said,  Suffer  little  children  to  come  unto  me, 
and  forbid  them  not:  for  ot  such  is  the  kingdom  of  God.  Rom. 
xi.  16.  For  it  the  first-fruit  be  holy,  the  lump  is  also  holy :  and  if 
the  root  be  holy,  so  are  the  branches. 


cfhe  Larger  Catechism.  3JJ 

A.  The  needful  but  much  negle&ed  duty  of 
improving  our  baptism,  is  to  be  performed  by  us 
all  our  life  long,  especially  in  the  time  of  tempta- 
tion, and  when  we  are  present  at  the  administra- 
tion of  it  to  others  ;p  by  serious  and  thankful  con- 
sideration of  the  nature  of  it,  and  of  the  ends  for 
which  Christ  instituted  it,  the  privileges  and  be- 
nefits conferred  and  sealed  thereby,  and  our  so- 
lemn vow  made  therein  \q  by  being  humbled  for 
our  sinful  defilement,  our  falling  short  of,  and 
walking  contrary  to,  the  grace  of  baptism,  and 
our  engagements  ;r  by  growing  up  to  assurance  of 
pardon  of  sin,  and  of  all  other  blessings  sealed  to 


167.  fi  Col.  ii.  n.  In  whom  also  ye  are  circumcised  with  the 
circumcision  made  without  hands,  in  putting  off  the  body  of  the 
sins  of  the  flesh,  by  the  circumcision  of  Christ:  v.  12.  Buried  with 
him  in  baptism,  wherein  also  you  are  risen  with  him,  through  the 
faith  of  the  operation  of  God,  who  hath  raised  him  from  the  dead. 
Rom.  vi.  4.  Therefore  we  are  buried  with  him,  by  baptism,  into 
death:  that  like  as  Christ  was  raised  up  from  the  dead  by  the  glory 
of  the  Father,  even  so  we  also  should  walk  in  newness  of  life.  v.  (>. 
Knowing  this,  that  our  old  man  is  crucified  with  him,  that  the  body 
of  sin  might  be  destroyed,  that  henceforth  we  should  not  serve  sin. 
v.  1 1,  Likewise  reckon  ye  also  yourselves  to  be  dead  indeed  unto 
sin ;  but  alive  unto  God  through  Jesus  Christ  our  Lord. 

q  Rom.  vi.  3.  Know  ye  not,  that  so  many  of  us  as  were  baptized 
into  Jesus  Christ,  were  baptized  into  his  death?  v.  4.  Therefore  we 
are  buried  with  him,  by  baptism,  into  death:  that  like  as  Christ  was 
raised  up  from  the  dead  by  the  glory  of  the  Father,  even  so  we  also 
should  walk  in  newness  of  life.  v.  5.  For  if  we  have  been  planted 
together  in  the  likeness  of  his  death,  we  shall  be  also  in  the  likeness 
of  his  resurrection. 

r  1  Cor.  i.  11.  For  it  hath  been  declared  unto  me  of  you,  my 
brethren,  by  them  which  are  of  the  house  of  Chloe,  that  there  are 
contentions  among  you.  v.  12.  Now  this  I  say,  that  every  one  of 
you  saith,  I  am  of  Paul,  and  I  of  Apollos,  and  I  of  Cephas,  and  I 
of  Christ,  v.  13.  Is  Christ  divided:  was  Paul  crucified  for  you? 
or  were  ye  baptized  in  the  name  of  Paul?  Rom.  vi.  2.  God  forbid ; 
how  shall  we  that  are  dead  to  sin  live  any  longer  therein?  v.  3, 
Know  ye  not,  that  so  many  of  us  as  were  baptized  into  Jesus  Chiist3 
were  baptized  into  his  death  ? 

3B 


j;3 


'J he  Larger  Catechism. 


us  in  that  sacrament  ;j  by  drawing  strength  from 
the  death  and  resurrection  of  Christ,  into  whom 
we  are  baptized,  for  the  mortifying  of  sin,  and 
qtsickening  of  grace;/  and  by  endeavouring  to 
Jive  by  faith, v  to  have  our  conversation  in  holi- 
ness and  righteousnesSjic;  as  those  that  have  thereia 
given  up  their  names  to  Christ  ;x  and  to  walk  in 
brotherly  love,  as  being  baptized  by  the  same 
Spirit  into  one  body.^ 

Q^  1 68.   What  is  the  Lord's  supper? 

A.  The  Lord's  supper  is  a  sacrament  of  the 
New  Testament^  wherein,  by  giving  and  re- 

s  Rom.  iv.  ii.  And  he  received  the  sign  of  circumcision,  a  seal 
ef  the  righteousness  of  the  faith  which  lie  had  yet  being  uncircum- 
cised  :  that  he  might  be  the  father  of  all  them  that  believe,  though 
they  be  not  circumcised;  that  righteousness  might  be  imputed  unto 
them  also:  v.  12.  And  the  father  of  circumcision  to  them  who  are 
not  of  the  circumcision  only,  but  also  walk  in  the  steps  of  that 
faith  of  our  father  Abraham,  which  he  had  being  yet  uncircumcised. 
j  Pet.  hi.  zi.  The  like  figure  whereunto,  even  baptism,  doth  also 
now  save  us,  (not  the  putting  away  of  the  filth  of  the  flesh,  but  the 
answer  of  a  good  conscience  towards  God)  by  the  resurrection  of 
Jesus  Christ. 

t  Rom.  vi.  3.  4,  5.  (See  above  in  q). 

v  Gal.  hi.  26.  For  ye  are  all  the  children  of  God  by  faith  in 
Christ  Jesus,  v.  27.  For  as  many  of  you  as  have  been  baptized 
into  Christ,  have  put  on  Christ. 

iu  Rom.  vi.  22.  But  now  being  made  free  from  sin,  and  become 
servants  to  God,  ye  have  your  fruit  unto  holiness,  and  the  end 
everlasting  life. 

x  Acts  ii.  3S.  Then  Peter  said  unto  them,  Repent,  and  be  bap- 
tized every  one  of  you  in  the  name  of  Jesus  Christ,  for  the  remis- 
sion of  sins,  and  ye  shall  receive  the  gilt  of  the  Holy  Ghost. 

y  1  Cor.  xii.  1  3.  For  by  one  Spirit  are  we  all  baptized  into  one 
bodv,  whether  we  be  Jews  or  Gentiles,  whether  we  be  bond  or  free; 
and  have  been  all  made  to  drink  into  one  Spirit-  v.  25.  That  there 
should  be  no  schism  in  the  body;  but  that  the  members  should  lave 
the  same  care  one  of  another,  v.  26.  And  whether  one  member 
suffer,  all  the  members  suffer  with  it:  or  one  member  be  honoured, 
all  the  members  rejoice  with  it.  v.  27.  Now  ye  are  the  body  of 
Christ,  and  members  in  particular. 

168.  2  Luke  xxii.  20.  Likewise  also  the  cup  after  supper,  say- 
ing, This  cup  is  the  New  Testament  in  my  blood,  which  is  shed 
M  you. 


*fhe  Larger  Catechism.  379 

■ceivino-  bread  and  wine  according  to  the  appoint- 
ment of  Jesus  Christ,  his  death  is  shewed  forth; 
and  they  that  worthily  communicate  feed  upon 
his  body  and  blood,  to  their  spiritual  nourishment 
and  orowth  in  grace  ;a  have  their  union  and  com- 
munion with  him  confirmed  ;£  testify  and  renew 
their  thankfulness  c  and  engagement  to  God, d  and 
their  mutual  love  and  fellowship  each  with  other, 
as  members  of  the  same  mystical  body.<r 

Q.  169.  How  hath  Christ  appointed  bread  and 
■wine  to  be  given  and  received  in  the  sacrament  of 
the  Lord's  supper  f 

A.  Christ  hath  appointed  the  ministers  of  his 
word,  in  the  administration  of  this  sacrament  of 

a  Mat.  xxvi.  26.  And  as  they  were  eating,  Jesus  took  bread,  and 
■blessed  it,  and  brake  it,  and  gave  it  to  the  disciples,  and  said,  Take, 
<eat;  this  is  my  body.  v.  27.  And  he  took  the  cup,  and  gave  thanks, 
and  gave  it  to  them,  saying,  Drink  ye  all  of  it:  v.  28.  For  this  is 
my  blood  of  the  New  Testament,  which  is  shed  for  many  for  the 
remission  of  sins.  1  Cor.  xi.  23.  For  I  have  received  of  the  Lord 
that  which  also  I  delivered  unto  you,  That  the  Lord  Jesus,  the  same 
•night  in  which  he  was  betrayed,  took  bread;  v.  24.  And  when  he 
had  given  thanks,  he  brake  it,  and  said,  Take,  eat;  this  is  my  body 
which  is  broken  for  you:  this  do  in  remembrance  of  me.  v.  25* 
After  the  same  manner  also  he  took  the  cup,  when  he  had  supped, 
saying,  This  cup  is  the  New  Testament  in  my  blood:  this  do  ye, 
as  oft  as  ye  drink  it,  in  remembrance  of  me.  v.  26.  For  as  often  as 
ye  eat  this  bread,  and  drink  this  cup,  ye  do  shew  the  Lord's  death 
till  he  come. 

b  1  Cor.  x.  16.  The  cup  of  blessing  which  we  bless,  is  it  not 
the  communion  of  the  blood  of  Christ?  The  bread  which  we  break, 
is  it  not  the  communion  of  the  body  of  Christ? 

c  1  Cor.  xi.  24.  (See  above  in  a). 

d  1  Cor.  x.  14.  Wherefore,  my  dearly  beloved,  flee  from  idolatry. 
v.  15.  I  speak  as  to  wise  men:  judge  ye  what  I  say.  v.  16.  The 
cup  of  blessing  which  we  bless,  is  it  not  the  /^ommunion  of  the 
blood  of  Christ?  The  bread  which  we  break,  is  it  not  the  com- 
munion of  the  body  of  Christ?  y.  21.  Ye  cannot  drink  the  cup  of 
the  Lord  and  the  cup  of  devils:  ye  cannot  be  partakers  of  the  Lord's 
table  and  of  the  table  of  devils. 

e  1  Cor.  x.  1 7.  For  we  being  many  are  one  bread,  and  one  body ; 
for  we  are  all  partakers  of  that  one  bread, 


3$o  Sfife  Larger  Catechism. 

the  Lord's  supper,  to  set  apart  the  bread  and  wind 
from  common  use,  by  the  word  of  institution, 
thanksgiving,  and  prayer;  to  take  and  break  the 
bread,  and  to  give  both  the  bread  and  the  wine 
to  the  communicants  :  who  are,  by  the  same  ap- 
pointment, to  take  and  eat  the  bread,  and  to 
drink  the  wine;  in  thankful  remembrance,  that 
the  body  of  Christ  was  broken  and  given,  and  his 
blood  shed  for  them/" 

Q^  1 70.  How  do  they  that  worthily  communi- 
cate in  the  Lord's  supper  feed  upon  the  body  and 
blood  of  Christ  therein  ? 

A.  As  the  body  and  blood  of  Christ  are  not  cor- 
porally or  carnally  present  in,  with,  or  under  the 
bread  and  wine  in  the  Lord's  supper  ;g  and  yet 
are  spiritually  present  to  the  faith  of  the  receiver, 
no  less  truly  and  really  than  the  elements  them- 
selves are  to  their  outward  senses  :h  so  they  that 
worthily  communicate  in  the  sacrament  of  the 

169.  /  1  Cor.  xi.  23,  24.  (See  before  under  n).  Mat.  xxvi.  26-, 
27,  28.  (See  before  at  a.)  Mark  xiv.  22.  And  as  they  did  eat,  Jesus 
took  bread,  and  blessed,  and  brake  it,  and  gave  to  them,  and  said, 
Take,  eat;  this  is  my  body.  v.  23.  And  he  took  the  cup,  and 
when  he  had  given  thanks,  he  gave  it  to  them:  and  they  all  drank 
of  it.  v.  24.  And  he  said  unto  them,  This  is  my  blood  of  the 
New  Testament,  which  is  shed  for  many.  Luke  xxii.  19.  And  he 
took  bread,  and  gave  thanks,  and  brake  it,  and  gave  unto  them, 
saying,  This  is  my  body  which  h  given  for  you  :  this  do  in  remem- 
brance of  me.  v.  20.  Likewise  also  the  cup  alter  supper,  savin:;, 
This  cup  is  the  New  Testament  in  my  blood,  which  is  shed  foi 
you. 

170.  g  Aftsiii.  21.  Whom  the  heaven  must  receive,  until  the 
times  ot  restitutio:  of  all  tilings,  which  Gml  hath  spoken  by  the 
mouth  of  all  his  holy  prophets,  since  the  world  began. 

//  Mat.  xxvi.  26.   And  as  they. were  eating,  J^\v>  took  bread,  and 
blessed  it,  and  brake  it,  and  gave  it  to  the  disciples,  and  said,  Take, 
eat;  this  is  my  body.     v.  28.    For  this  is  my  blood  of  I 
^Testament,  wheh  is  shed  for  many,  lor  the  remission  of  sin*. 


f&  Larger  Catechism.  381 

Lord's  supper,  da  therein  feed  upon  the  body  and 
blood  of  Christ,  not  after  a  corporal  and  carnal, 
but  in  a  spiritual  manner;  yet  truly  and  really,/ 
while  by  faith  they  receive  and  apply  unto  them- 
selves Christ  crucified,  and  all  the  benefits  of  his 

deaths 

Ch    171.  How  are  they  that  receive  the  sacra- 
merit  of  the  Lord's  supper  to  prepare  themselves  be- 
fore they  come  unto  it? 

A.  They  that  receive  the  sacrament  of  the 
Lord's  supper,  are,  before  they  come,  to  prepare 
themselves  thereunto,  by  examining  themselves/ 
of  their  being  in  Christ,;/?  of  their  sins  and  wants;;? 

t  r  Cor.  xi.  24.  And  when  he  had  given  thanks,  he  brake  it,  and 
said,  Take,  eat;  this  is  my  body,  which  is  broken  for  you:  this  do 
in  remembrance  of  me.  v.  25.  After  the  same  manner  also  he  too* 
the  cup,  when  he  had  supped,  saying,  This  cup  is  the  New  Festa- 
ment  in  my  blood :  this  do  ye,  as  oft  as  ye  drink  it,  in  remembrance 
of  me.  v.  26.  For  as  often  as  ye  eat  this  bread,  and  drink  this  cup, 
ye  do  shew  the  Lord's  death  till  he  come.  v.  27.  Wherefore,  who- 
soever shall  eat  this  bread,  and  drink  this  cup  of  the  Lord  unwor- 
thily, shall  be  guiltv  of  the  body  and  blood  of  the  Lord.  v.  28. 
But' let  a  man  examine  himself,  and  so  let  him  eat  of  that  breau, 
and  drink  of  that  cup.  v.  29.  For  he  that  eateth  and  drinketh  un- 
worthily, eateth  and  drinketh  damnation  to  himself,  not  discerning 
the  Lord's  bodv. 

k  1  Cor.  x.  16.  The  cup  of  blessing  which  we  bless,  is  it  not  the 
communion  of  the  blood  of  Christ  ?  The  bread  which  we  break, 
is  it  not  the  communion  of  the  body  of  Christ? 

171.  /  1  Cor.  xi.  28.  But  let  a  man  examine  himself,  and  so  let 
him  eat  of  that  bread,  and  drink  of  that  cup. 

m  2  Cor.  xiii.  5.  Examine  yourselves,  whether  ye  be  in  the  faith; 
prove  your  own  selves:  know  ye  not  your  own  selves,  how  that 
Jesus  Christ  is  in  vou,  except  ye  be  reprobates? 

11  1  Cor.  v.  7.  Purge  out,  therefore,  the  old  leaven,  that  ye  may 
be  a  new  lump,  as  ye  are  unleavened.  For  even  Christ  our  passover 
is  sacrificed  for  us.  Compared  with  Exod.  xii.  15.  Seven  days 
shall  ye  eat  unleavened  bread,  even  the  first  day  ye  shall  put  away 
leaven  out  of  your  houses:  for  whosoever  eateth  ieavened  bread, 
from  the  first  day  until  the  seventh  day,  that  soul  shall  be  cut  off  from 
Israel, 


3S2  The  Larger  Caiechhiii. 

of  the  truth  and  measure  of  their  knowledge,*? 
faith,^>  repentance;^  love  to  God  and  the  bre- 
thren,r  charity  to  all  men,;  forgiving  those  that 
have  done  them  wrong;/  of  their  desires  after 
Christ,!'  and  of  their  new  obedience  \w  and  by  re- 


0  2  Cor.  xi.  29.  For  he  that  eateth  and  drinketh  unworthily, 
cateth  and  drinketh  damnation  to  himself,  not  discerning  the  Lord's 
body. 

//  i  Cor.  xiii.  5.  (See  above  in  m)  Mat.  xxvi.  28.  For  this  is  my 
blood  of  the  Xew  Testament,  which  is  shed  for  many,  for  there- 
mission  of  sins. 

q  Zech.  x'ri.  10.  And  I  will  pour  upon  the  house  of  David,  and 
upon  the  inhabitants  of  Jerusalem,  the  Spirit  of  grace  and  of  suppli- 
cations, and  they  shall  look  upon  me  whom  they  have  pierced,  and 
they  shall  mourn  for  him,  as  one  mourneth  for  his  only  son,  and 
shall  be  in  bitterness  for  him,  as  one  that  is  in  bitterness  for  his  first- 
born. 1  Cor.  xi.  31.  For  if  we  would  judge  ourselves,  we  should 
not  be  judged. 

r  1  Cor.  x.  16.  The  cup  of  blessing  which  we  bless,  is  it  not  the 
communion  of  the  blood  of  Christ?  The  bread  which  we  break,  is 
it  not  the  communion  of  the  body  of  Christ?  v.  1  7.  For  we  being 
many  are  one  bread,  and  one  body  :  for  we  are  all  partakers  of  that 
one  bread.  Acts  ii.  46.  And  they  continuing  daily  with  one  ac- 
cord in  the  temple,  and  breaking  bread  from  house  to  house,  did  eat 
their  meat  with  gladness  and  singleness  of  heart;  v.  47.  Praising 
God,  and  having  favour  with  all  the  people.  And  the  Lord  added 
to  the  church  daily  such  as  should  be  saved. 

s  1  Cor.  v.  8.  Therefore  let  us  keep  the  feast,  not  with  old  leavrn, 
neither  with  the  leaven  of  malice  and  wickedness;  but  with  the 
unleavened  bread  of  sincerity  and  truth.  1  Cor.  xi.  iS.  For  first  of 
all,  when  ye  come  together  in  the  church,  I  hear  that  there  be  divi- 
sions among  you;  audi  partly  believe  it.  v.  20.  When  ye  come 
together  therefore  into  one  place,  this  is  not  to  eat  the  Lord's  supper. 

/  Mat.  v.  23.  Therefore,  if  thou  bring  thy  gift  to  the  altar,  and 
there  rememberest  that  thy  brother  hath  ought  against  thee;  v.  24. 
Leave  there  thy  gift  before  the  altar,  and  go  thy  way  ;  first  be  recon- 
ciled to  thy  brother,  and  then  come  and  offer  thy  gift. 

..  lv.  1.  Ho,  every  one  that  thirstcth,  come  ye  to  the  waters, 
and  he  that  hath  no  money;  come  ye,  buy  and  eat,  yea,  come,  buy 
wine  and  milk  without  money,  and  without  price.  John  v ii.  37. 
In  tiie  last  day,  that  great  day  of  the  feast,  Jesus  stood  and  cried, 
laying,   It  any  nun  thirst,  let  him  come  unto  me,  ami  drink. 

iv  1  Cor.  v.  7.  Purge  out,  therefore,  the  old  leaven,  that  ye  may 
be  a  new  lump,  as  ye  are  unleavened.  For  even  Christ  our  passover 
is  crucified  for  us.     v.  8.  Therefore  let  us  keep  the  fea^t,  not  with 


T'he 'Larger  Catechism,  j£>3 

newing  the  exercise  of  these  graces,*  by  serious 
meditation,^  and  fervent  prayer. % 

Q.  172.  May  one  who  doubt etb  of  his  being  in 
Christ,  or  of  his  due  preparation,  come  to  the  Lord's 
supper  f 

A.  One  who  doubteth  of  his  being  in  Christ, 
or  of  his  due  preparation  to  the  sacrament  of  the 
Lord's  supper,  may  have  true  interest  in  Christ, 
though  he  be  not  yet  assured  thereof ;«  and  in 

old  leaven,  neither  with  the  leaven  of  malice  and  wickedness:  but 
with  the  unleavened  bread  of  sincerity  and  truth. 

x  1  Cor.  xi.  25.  After  the  same  manner  also  he  took  the  cup, 
when  he  had  supped,  sayings  This  cup  is  the  New  Testament  in  my 
blood  :  this  do  ye,  as  oft  as  ye  drink  it,  in  remembrance  of  me.  v, 
26.  For  as  often  as  ye  eat  this  bread,  and  drink  this  cup,,  ye  do  shew 
the  Lord's  death  till  he  come.  v.  2&.  But  let  a  man  examine  him- 
self, and  so  let  him  eat  of  that  bread,  and  drink  of  that  cup.  Heb. 
x.  21.  And  having  an  high  priest  over  the  house  of  God;  v.  22. 
Let  us  draw  near  with  a  true  heart,  in  full  assurance  of  faith,  having 
our  hearts  sprinkled  from  an  evil  conscience,  and  our  bodies  washed 
with  pure  water,  v.  24.  And  let  us  consider  one  another,  to  pro- 
voke unto  love,  and  to  good  works.  Psal.  xxvi.  6.  I  will  wash 
mine  hands  in  innocency  :  so  will  I  compass  thine  altar,  O  Lord. 

y  1  Cor.  xi.  24.  And  when  he  had  given  thanks,  he  brake  it,, 
and  said,  Take,  eat;  this  is  my  body,  which  is  broken  for  you  ; 
this  do  in  remembrance  of  me.  v.  25.  After  the  same  manner  also 
he  took  the  cup,  when  he  had  supped,  saying,  This  cup  is  the  New 
Testament  in  my  blood :  this  do  ye,  as  oft  as  ye  drink  it,  in  remem- 
brance of  me. 

z  2Chron.  xxx.  18.  For  a  multitude  of  the  people,,  even  many  of 
Ephraim,  and  Manasseh,  Issachar,  and  Zebulun,  had  not  cleansed 
themselves,  yet  did  they  eat  the  passover,  otherwise  than  it  was  writ- 
ten :  but  Hezekiah  prayed  for  them,  saying,  The  good  Lord  pardon 
every  one  v.  19.  That  prepareth  his  heart  to  seek  God,  the  Lord 
God  of  his  fathers,  though  he  be  not  cleansed  according  to  the  puri- 
fication of  the  sanctuary.  Mat.  xxvi.  26.  And  as  they  were  eating, 
Jesus  took  bread,  and  blessed  it,  and  brake  it,  and  gave  it  to  the  dis- 
ciples, and  said,  Take,  eat;  this  is  my  body. 

172.  a  Isa.  1.  10.  Who  is  among  you  that  feareth  the  Lord,  that 
obeyeth  the  voice  of  his  servant,  that  walketh  in  darkness,  and  hath 
no  light?  let  him  trust  in  the  name  of  the  Lord,  and  stay  upon  his 
God.  1  John  v.  1 3.  These  things  have  I  written  unto  you  that  be- 
lieve on  the  name  of  the  Son  of  God  ;  that  ye  may  know  that  ye  have 
eternal  life,  and  that  ye  may  believe  on  the  name  of  the  Son  of  God. 


384  ^je  Larger  Catechism. 

God's  account  it  hath,  if  he  be  duly  affecled  with 
the  apprehension  of  the  want  of  it,£  and  un- 
feigncdly  desires  to  be  found  in  Christ,;  and  to 

Psal.  lxxxviii.  throughout.  Psal.  Ixxvii.  to  v.  12.  v.  1.  I  cried  unto 
God  with  my  voice  :  even  unto  God  with  my  voice,  and  he  gave  ear 
unto  me.  v.-2.  In  the  day  of  my  trouble  I  sought  the  Lord;  my 
sore  ran  in  the  night,  and  ceased  not:  my  soul  refused  to  be  comfort- 
ed, v.  3.  I  remembered  God,  and  was  troubled  :  I  complained,  and 
my  spirit  was  overwhelmed.  Selah.  v.  4.  Thou  holdest  mine  eyes 
waking:  I  am  so  troubled  that  I  cannot  speak,  &c.  v.  7.  Will  the 
Lord  cast  off  for  ever  ?  and  will  he  be  favourable  no  more?  v.  8. 
Is  his  mercy  clean  gone  for  ever?  doth  his  promise  fail  for  ever- 
more ?  v.  9.  Hath  God  forgotten  to  be  gracious  ?  hath  he  in  anger 
shut  up  his  tender  mercies?  Jonah  ii.  4.  Then  I  said,  I  am  cast 
out  of  thv  sight ;  yet  I  will  look  again  toward  thy  holy  temple,  v.  7. 
When  my  soul  fainted  within  me,  I  remembered  the  Lord,  and  my 
prayer  came  in  unto  thee,  into  thine  holy  temple. 

b  La.  liv.  7.  For  a  small  moment  have  I  forsaken  thee,  but  with 
great  mercies  will  I  gather  thee.  v.  8.  In  a  littre  wrath  I  hid  my 
face  from  thee  for  a  moment;  but  with  everlasting  kindness  will  I 
have  mercy  on  thee,  saith  the  Lord  thy  Redeemer,  v.  9.  For  this 
js  as  the  waters  of  Noah  unto  me:  lor  as  I  have  sworn  that  the  wa- 
ters of  Noah  should  no  more  go  over  the  earth ;  so  have  I  sworn 
that  I  would  not  lie  wroth  with  thee,  nor  rebuke  thee.  v.  10.  For 
the  mountains  shall  depart,  and  the  hills  be  removed,  but  my  kind- 
shall  not  depart  from  thee,  neither  shall  the  covenant  of  my 
peace  be  removed,  saith  the  Lord  that  hath  mercy  on  thee.  Mat. 
v.  1.  Blessed  are*  the  poor  in  spirit:  for  theirs  is  the  kingdom  of 
heaven,  v.  4.  Blessed  are  they  that  mourn:  for  they  shall  be  com- 
forted. Psal.  xxxi.  zz.  For  I  said  in  my  haste,  I  am  cut  off  from 
before  thine  eyes;  nevertheless  thou  heardest  the  voice  of  my  suppli- 
cations, when  I  cried  unto  thee.  P^al.  Ixxiii.  13.  Verily  I  have 
nsed  my  heart  in  vain,  and  washed  my  hands  in  innocency.     v. 

22.  So  foolish  was  I,  and  ignorant:  I  was  as  a  beast  before  thee.    v. 

23.  Nevertheless,  I  am  continually  with  thee:  thou  hast  holden  me 
by  my  right  hand. 

e  Phil.  iii.  8.  Yea,  doubtless,  and  I  count  all  things  but  loss,  for 
the  excellency  of  the  knowledge  of  Christ  Jesus  my  Lord,  tor 
whom  I  have  suffered  the  loss  of  all  things;  and  do  count  them 
but  dung  that  I  may  win  Christ;  v.  9.  And  be  found  in  him,  not 
having  mine  own  righteoiMu  s,  which  is  of  the  law,  but  that  which 
is  through  1 1  it-  faith  of  Christ,  the  righteousness  which  is  of  God  by 
faith.  Psal.  x.  17.  Lord,  thou  hast  heard  the  desire  of  the  humble: 
thou  wilt  prepare  their  heart,  thou  wilt  cause  thine  car  to  hear.  P->al. 
>lii.  1.  A^  the  heart  panteth  after  the  water-brooks  so  panteth  my 
soul  after  thee,  O  God.     v.  2.  My  soul  thirsteth  lor  God,  for  the 


The  Larger  Catechism.  385 

depart  from  iniquity:*/  in  which  case  (because 
promises  are  made,  and  this  sacrament  is  appoint- 
ed, for  the  relief  even  of  weak  and  doubting  Chris- 
tians e)  he  is  to  bewail  his  unbelief,/*  and  labour 
to  have  his  doubts  resolved  ;g  and,  so  doing,  he 
may  and  ought  to  come  to  the  Lord's  supper,  that 
he  may  be  further  strengthened.^ 

living  God:  when  shall  I  come  and  appear  before  God?  v.  5, 
Why  art  thou  cast  down,  O  my  soul?  and  why  art  thou  disquieted 
in  me?  hope  thou  in  God,  for  I  shall  yet  praise  him  for  the  help 
of  his  countenance,  v.  11.  Why  art  thou  cast  down,  O  my  soul? 
and  why  art  thou  disquieted  within  me  ?  hope  thou  in  God,  for  I 
shall  yet  praise  him,  who  is  the  health  of  my  countenance,  and  my 
God. 

d  2  Tim.  ii.  19.  Nevertheless,  the  foundation  of  God  standeth 
sure,  having  this  seal,  The  Lord  knoweth  them  that  are  his.  And, 
Let  every  one  that  nameth  the  name  of  Christ  depart  from  iniquity. 
Isa.  1.  10.  Who  is  among  you  that  feareth  the  Lord,  that  obeyetb. 
the  voice  of  his  servant,  that  walketh  in  darkness,  and  hath  no  light? 
let  him  trust  in  the  name  of  the  Lord,  and  stay  upon  his  God. 
Psal.  lxvi.  18.  If  I  regard  iniquity  in  my  heart,  the  Lord  will  not 
hear  me.  v.  19.  But  verily  God  hath  heard  me:  he  hath  attended 
to  the  voice  of  my  prayer,  v.  20.  Blessed  be  God,  which  hath  not 
turned  away  my  prayer,  nor  his  mercy  from  me. 

e  Isa.  xl.  xi.  He  shall  feed  his  flock  like  a  shepherd:  he  shall 
gather  the  lambs  with  his  arm,  and  carry  them  in  his  bosom,  and 
shall  gently  lead  those  that  are  with  young,  v.  29.  He  giveth  power 
to  the  faint ;  and  to  them  that  have  no  might  he  increaseth  strength. 
v.  31.  But  they  that  wait  upon  the  Lord  shall  renew  their  strength: 
They  shall  mount  up  with  wings  as  eagles;  they  shall  run  and  not 
be  weary,  and  they  shall  walk  and  not  faint.  Mat.  xi.  28.  Come 
unto  me,  all  ye  that  labour,  and  are  heavy  laden,  and  I  will  give 
you  rest.  Mat.  xii.  20.  A  bruised  reed  shall  he  not  break,  and 
smoking  flax  shall  he  not  quench,  till  he  send  forth  judgment  unto 
victory.  Mat.  xxvi.  28.  For  this  is  my  blood  of  the  New  Testa- 
ment, which  is  shed  for  many  for  the  remission  of  sins. 

f  Mark  ix.  24.  And  straightway  the  father  of  the  child  cried  out, 
and  said  with  tears,  Lord,  I  believe;  help  thou  mine  unbelief. 

g  Afts  ii.  37.  Now,  when  they  heard  this,  they  were  pricked  in 
their  heart,  and  said  unto  Peter,  and  to  the  rest  of  the  apostles, 
Men  and  brethren,  what  shall  we  do?  A£te  xvi.  30.  And  he  brought 
them  out,  and  said,  Sirs,  what  must  I  do  to  be  saved? 

//  Rom.  iv.  11.  And  he  received  the  sign  of  circumcision,  a  seal 
of  the  righteousness  of  the  faith  which  he  had  yet  being  uncircum- 
cised:  that  he  might  be  the  father  of  all  them  that  believe,  though 

3c 


3$  6  if  he  Larger  Catechism. 

Q^  1 73.  May  any  who  profess  the  faith  and  at* 
sire  to  come  to  the  Lord's  supper  be  kept  from  it  ? 

A.  Such  as  are  found  to  be  ignorant  or  scan- 
dalous,  notwithstanding  their  profession  of  the 
faith,  and  desire  to  come  to  the  Lord's  supper, 
may  and  ought  to  be  kept  from  that  sacrament, 
by  the  power  which  Christ  hath  left  in  his  church,/ 
until  they  receive  instruction,  and  manifest  their 
reformation.  I 

Q^  174.  What  is  required  of  them  that  receive 
the  sacrament  of  the  Lord's  supper  in  the  time  of  the 
administration  of  it  ? 

A.  It  is  required  of  them  that  receive  the  sa- 
crament of  the  Lord's  supper,  that,  during  the 
time  of  the  administration  of  it,  with  all  holy  re- 
verence and  attention  they  wait  upon  God  in  that 
ordinance;/   diligently  observe  the   sacramental 

they  be  not  circumcised;  that  righteousness  might  be  imputed  unto 
them  also.  1  Cor.  xi.  28.  But  let  a  man  examine  himself,  and  so 
let  him  eat  of  that  bread,  and  drink  of  that  cup. 

173.  i  1  Cor.  xi.  27  to  the  end.  Wherefore,  whosoever  shall  eat 
this  bread,  and  drink  this  cup  of  the  Lord  unworthily,  shall  be 
guilty  of  the  body  and  blood  of  the  Lord.  v.  28.  But  let  a  man 
examine  himself,  and  so  let  him  cat  of  that  bread,  and  drink  of  that 
cup.  v.  29  For  lie  that  eateth  and  drinketh  unworthily,  eateth  and 
drinketh  damnation  to  himself,  not  discerning  the  Lord's  body.  v. 
30.  For  this  cause  manv  are  weak  and  sickly  among  you,  and  many 
sleep,  v.  31.  For  if  we  would  judge  ourselves,  we  should  not  be 
judged,  &c.  to  the  end  of  the  chapter.  Compared  with  Mat.  vii. 
6.  Give  not  that  which  is  holy  unto  the  dogs,  neither  cast  ye  your 
pearls  before  swine,  lest  they  trample  them  under  their  feet,  and 
turn  again  and  rent  you.  And  with  1  Cor.  chap.  v.  to  the  end. 
And  with  Jude  v.  23.  And  others  save  with  fear,  pulling  them  out 
of  the  fire ;  hating  even  the  garments  spotted  by  the  flesh.  And 
with  1  Tim.  v.  22.  Lay  hands  suddenly  on  no  man,  neither  be  par- 
taker of  other  men's  sins :  keep  thyself  pure. 

k  2  Cor.  ii.  7.  So  that,  contrariwise,  ye  ought  rather  to  forgive 
him,  and  comfort  him,  lest  perhaps  such  a  one  should  be  swallowed 
uj)  with  overmuch  sorrow. 

174.  /  Lev.  x.  3.  Then  Moses  said  unto  Aaron,  This  is  it  that 
the  Lord  spake,  ^ayin^,  1  will  be  sanciifitd  in  them  that  come  nigh 


¥he  Larger  Catechism.  387 

elements  and  actions  ;w  heedfully  discern  the 
Lord's  body,#  and  affectionately  meditate  on  his 
death  and  sufferings, 0  and  thereby  stir  up  them- 
selves to  a  vigorous  exercise  of  their  graces  ;p  in 
judging  themselves,^    and  sorrowing  for   sin;r 


me,  and  before  all  the  people  I  will  be  glorified. — Heb.  xii.  28. 
Wherefore,  we  receiving  a  kingdom  which  cannot  be  moved,  let  us 
have  grace,  whereby  we  may  serve  God  acceptably,  with  reverence 
and  godly  fear.  Psal.  v.  7.  But  as  for  me,  I  will  come  into  thy 
house  in  the  multitude  of  thy  mercy:  and  in  thy  fear  will  I  worship 
toward  thy  holy  temple.  1  Cor.  xi.  17.  Now  in  this  that  I  declare 
unto  you,  I  praise  you  not,  that  you  come  together,  not  for  the  bet- 
ter, but  for  the  worse,  v.  26.  For  as  often  as  ye  eat  this  bread, 
and  drink  this  cup,  ye  do  shew  the  Lord's  death  till  he  come.  v.  37. 
Wherefore,  whosoever  shall  eat  this  bread,  and  drink  this  cup  of  the 
Lord  unworthily,  shall  be  guilty  of  the  body  and  blood  of  the  Lord. 

m  Exod.  xxiv.  8.  And  Moses  took  the  blood,  and  sprinkled  it  on 
the  people,  and  said,  Behold,  the  blood  of  the  covenant  which  the 
Lord  hath  made  with  you  concerning  all  these  words.  Compared 
with  Mat.  xxvi.  28.  For  this  is  my  blood  of  the  New  Testament, 
which  is  shed  for  many  for  the  remission  of  sins. 

«  1  Cor.  xi.  29.  For  he  that  eateth  and  drinketh  unworthily, 
eateth  and  drinketh  damnation  to  himself,  not  discerning  the  Lord's 
body. 

0  Luke  xxii.  19.  And  he  took  bread,  and  gave  thanks,  and  brake 
it,  and  gave  unto  them,  saying,  This  is  my  body  which  is  given  for 
you:  this  do  in  remembrance  of  me. 

fi  1  Cor.  xi.  26.  For  as  often  as  ye  eat  this  bread,  and  drink  this 
cup,  ye  do  shew  the  Lord's  death  till  he  come.  1  Cor.  x.  3.  And 
did  all  eat  the  same  spiritual  meat;  v.  4.  And  did  all  drink  the  same 
spiritual  drink :  (for  they  drank  of  that  spiritual  Rock  that  followed 
them:  and  that  Rock  was  Christ),  v.  5.  But  with  many  of  them 
God  was  not  well  pleased;  for  they  were  overthrown  in  the  wilder- 
ness, v.  11.  Now  all  these  things  happened  unto  them  for  ensam- 
ples;  and  they  are  written  for  our  admonition,  upon  whom  the  ends 
of  the  world  are  come.  v.  14.  Wherefore,  my  dearly  beloved,  flee 
from  idolatry. 

q  1  Cor.  xi.  31.  For  if  we  would  judge  ourselves,  we  should 
not  be  judged. 

r  Zech.  xii.  10.  And  I  will  pour  upon  the  house  of  David,  and 
upon  the  inhabitants  of  Jerusalem,  the  Spirit  of  grace  and  of  sup- 
plications, and  they  shall  look  upon  me  whom  they  have  pierced, 
and  they  shall  mourn  for  him,  as  one  mourneth  for  his  only  son, 
and  shall  be  in  bitterness  for  him,  as  one  that  is  in  bitterness  for  his 
first-born, 


3^8  The  Larger  Catechism. 

in  earnest  liun^erina;  and  thirsting  after  Christ, s 
feeding-  0n  him  bv  faith,/  receiving-  of  his  fulness, i> 
trusting  in  his  merits,?*/  rejoicing  in  his  love,* 
giving  thanks  for  his  grace  \y  in  renewing  of  their 
covenant  with  God,s  and  love  to  all  the  saints.^ 

Q^  175.  What  is  the  duty  of  Christians,  after 
they  have  received  the  sacrament  of  the  Lord's 
supper  ? 

A.  The  duty  of  Christians,  after  they  have  re- 
ceived the  sacrament  of  the  Lord's  supper,  is  se- 
riously to  consider  how  they  have  behaved  them- 
selves therein,  and  with  what  success  \b  if  they 

s  Rev.  xxii.  17.  And  the  Spirit  and  the  bride  say,  Come.  And 
let  him  that  hearcth,  say,  Come.  And  let  him  that  is  athirst,  come: 
and  whosoever  will,  let  him  take  the  water  of  life  freely. 

t  John  vi.  35.  And  Jesus  said  unto  them,  I  am  the  bread  of  life: 
he  that  cometh  to  me  shall  never  hunger  j  and  he  that  believeth  on 
me  shall  never  tiiirst. 

v  John  i.  16.  And  of  his  fulness  have  all  we  received,  and  grace 
for  grace. 

iv  Phil.  iii.  9.  And  be  found  in  him,  not  having  mine  own  righte- 
ousness, which  is  of  the  law,  but  that  which  is  through  the  faith  of 
Christ,  the  righteousness  which  is  of  God  by  fait;:. 

x  Psal.  lxiii.  4.  Thus  will  I  bless  thee,  while  I  live:  I  will  lift 
up  my  hands  in  thy  name.  v.  5.  My  soul  shall  be  satisfied  as  with 
marrow  and  fatness;  and  my  mouth  shall  praise  thee  with  joyiul 
lips.  2  Chron.  xxx.  21.  And  the  children  ol  Israel  that  were  pre- 
sent at  Jerusalem  kept  the  ieast  of  unleavened  bread  seven  days  with 
great  gladness:  and  the  Levites,  and  the  priests,  praised  the  Lord 
day  by  day,  singing  with  loud  instruments  unto  the  Lord. 

y  Psal.  xxii.  26.  The  meek  shall  eat  and  be  satisfied;  they  shall 
praise  the  Lord  that  seek  him  ;  your  heart  shall  live  forever. 

z  Jer.  1.  5.  They  '•hill  ask  the  way  to  Zion  with  their  faces  thi- 
therward, saying,  Come,  and  let  us  join  ourselves  to  the  Lord  ir. 
a  perpetual  covenant  that  shall  not  be  forgotten.  Psal.  1.  5.  Gather 
my  saints  together  unto  me:  those  that  have  made  a  covenant  with 
me  by  sacrifice. 

a  Acts  ii.  42.  And  they  continued  stedfastly  in  the  apostle/  doc- 
trine and  fellowship,  and  in  breaking  ot  bread,  and  in  prayers. 

175.  0  Psal.  xxviii.  7.  The  Lord  is  my  strength  and  my  shield; 
my  heart  trusted  in  him,  and  I  am  helped  :  therelore  my  heart  great- 
ly rejoicfth,  and  with  my  song  will  I  praise  him.  Psal.  Ixxxv.  8.  I 
will  hear  what  God  the  Lord  will  speak  :  for  he  will  speak  peace  un- 


*fhe  Larger  Catechism.  389 

find  quickening  and  comfort,  to  bless  God  for  it,* 
beo-  the  continuance  of  it,</  watch  against  relap- 
ses%  fulfil  their  vows/  and  encourage  themselves 
to 'a  frequent  attendance  on  that  ordinance  :g 
but  if  they  find  no  present  benefit,  more  exaaiy 
to  review  their  preparation  to,  and  carriage  at, 

to  his  people,  and  to  his  saints:  but  let  them  not  turn  again  to  fol- 
lv  1  Cor  xi  1 7  Now  in  this  that  I  declare  unto  you,  I  praise  you 
not  that  you'  come  together,  not  for  the  better,  but  for  the  worse,  v. 
*o  For  this  cause  many  are  weak  and  sickly  among  you,  and  many 
sleep,    v.  31.  For  if  we  would  judge  ourselves,  we  should  not  be 

JUdc§ld  Chron.  xxx.  »i,  22,  »S.  *5>  ■*  ,  v-  «•  And  the  children  of 
Israel  that  were  present  at  Jerusalem,  kept  the  feast  of  unleavened 
bread  seven  days  with   great  gladness:  and   the  Levites,  and   the 
priests  praised  the  Lord  day  by  day,  singing  with  bud  instruments 
into  the  Lord,  &c.     Ads  ii.  4a.  And  they  continued  stedfastly  in 
the  apostles'  doftrine  and  fellowship,  and  in  breaking  of  bread,  and  in 
nrnv-rs      v  46.  And  they  continuing  daily  with  one  accord  in  the 
temple,'  and  breaking  bread  from  house  to  house,  did  eat  their  meat 
3  gladness  and  singleness  of  heart,  v.  47.  Praising  God,  and  hav- 
ing; favour  with  all  the  people.—       ,...-.  .,        ,«„,. 
</Psal   xxxvi  10.  O  continue  thy  loving  kindness  unto  them  that 
know  thee;  and  thv  righteousness  to  the  upright  in  heart    Cant   111. 
a    It  was  but  a  little  that  I  passed  from  them,  but  I  found  him  whom 
1  soul  loveth :  I  held  him,  and  would  not  let  him  go,  until  I  had 
brought  him  into  my  mother's  house,  and  into  the  chamber  of  her 
that  conceived  me.     1  Chron.  xxix.  18.  O  Lord  God  of  Abraham, 
Isaac,  and  of  Israel  our  fathers,  keep  this  for  ever  in  the  imagination 
of  the  thoughts  of  the  heart  of  thy  people,  and  prepare  their  heart  unto 

'T'i  Cor  x  3.  And  did  all  eat  the  same  spiritual  meat;  v.  4.  And 
did  all  drink  the  same  spiritual  drink;  (for  they  drank  of  that  spi- 
ritual Rock  that  followed  them  :  and  that  Rock  was  Christ.)  v.  5. 
But  with  many  of  them  God  was  not  well  pleased  :  for  they  were 
overthrown  in  the  wilderness,  v.  12.  Wherefore  let  him  that  think- 
cth  he  standeth,  take  heed  lest  he  fall. 

/  Psal.  1.  14.  Offer  unto  God  thanksgiving,  and  pay  thy  vows  un- 
to the  Most  High.  .    ..,„„, 

£  1  Cor  xi  a  5.  After  the  same  manner  also  he  took  the  cup, 
when  he  had  supped,  saying,  This  cup  is  the  New  Testament  in  my 
blood  :  this  do  ye,  as  oft  as  ye  drink  it,  in  remembrance  of  me.  v. 
26.  For  as  often  as  ve  eat  this  bread,  and  drink  this  cup,  ye  do  shew 
the  Lord's  death  till  he  come.  A£ts  ii.  4a.  And  they  continued  sted- 
iasrly  in  the  apostles'  doftrine  and  fellowship,  and  in  breaking  or 


39<3  7#*  Larger  Catechism. 

the  sacrament  ;Z>  in  both  which  if  they  can  ap-» 
prove  themselves  to  God  and  their  own  conscien- 
ces, they  are  to  wait  for  the  fruit  of  it  in  due 
time:/  but,  if  they  see  they  have  failed  in  either, 
they  are  to  be  humbled, k  and  to  attend  upon  it 
afterward  with  more  care  and  diligence./ 

bread,  and  in  prayers,  v.  46.  And  they  continuing  daily  with  one 
accord  in  the  temple,  and  breaking  bread  horn  house  to  house,  did 
eat  their  meat  with  gladness  and  singleness  of  heart. 

h  Cant.  v.  1.  I  am  come  into  my  garden,  my  sister,  my  spouse; 
I  have  gathered  my  myrrh  with  my  spice,  I  have  eaten  my  honey- 
comb with  my  honey,  I  have  drunk  my  wine  with  my  milk  :  eat, 
O  friends,  drink,  yea  drink  abundantly,  O  beloved,  v.  2.  I  sleep, 
but  my  heart  waketh :  it  is  the  voice  of  my  beloved  that  knocketh, 
saying,  Open  to  me,  my  sister,  my  love,  my  dove,  my  undefilcd ; 
for  my  head  is  filled  with  dew,  and  my  locks  with  the  drops  of  the 
night,  v.  3.  I  have  put  off  my  coat,  how  shall  I  put  it  on  ?  I  have 
washed  my  feet,  how  shall  I  defile  them  ?  v.  4.  My  beloved  put  in 
his  hand  by  the  hole  of  the  door,  and  my  bowels  were  moved  for 
him.  v.  5.  I  rose  up  to  open  to  my  beloved,  and  my  hands  drop- 
ped with  myrrh,  and  my  fingers  with  sweet-smelling  myrrh,  upon 
the  handles  of  the  lock.  v.  6.  I  opened  to  my  beloved,  but  my  be- 
loved had  withdrawn  himself,  and  was  gone:  my  soul  failed  when 
he  spake :  1  sought  him,  but  I  could  not  find  him ;  I  called  him,  but 
he  gave  me  no  answer. 

i  Psal.  exxiii.  1.  Unto  thee  lift  Tup  mine  eyes,  O  thou  that  dwellest 
in  the  heavens,  v.  2.  Behold,  as  the  eyes  of  servants  look  unto  the 
hand  ol  their  masters,  and  as  the  eyes  of  a  maiden  unto  the  hand  of 
her  mistress  ;  so  our  eyes  wait  upon  the  Lord  our  God,  until  that  he 
have  mercy  upon  us.  Psal.  xlii.  5.  Why  art  thou  cast  down,  O  my 
r.oul?  and  why  art  thou  disquieted  in  me?  hope  thou  in  God,  fori 
shall  yet  praise  him  for  the  help  of  his  countenance,  v.  8.  Yet  the 
Lord  will  command  his  loving  kindness  in  the  day  time,  and  in  the 
night  his  song  shall  be  with  me,  and  my  prayer  unto  the  God  of  my 
life.  Psal.  xliii.  3.  O  send  out  thy  light  and  thy  truth;  let  them 
lead  me,  let  them  bring  me  unto  thy  holy  hill,  and  to  thy  tabernacles. 
v.  4.  Then  will  I  go  unto  the  altar  of  God,  unto  God  my  exceed- 
ing joy  :  yea,  upon  the  harp  will  I  praise  thee,  O  God  my  God.  v.  5. 
Why  art  thou  cast  down,  O  my  soul:  and  why  art  thou  disquieted 
within  me?  hope  in  God,  for  I  shall  yet  praise  him,  who  is  the 
health  of  my  countenance,  and  my  God. 

i  2  Chron.  xxx.  18.  For  a  multitude  of  the  people,  even  many  of 
Ephraim,  and  Manasseh,  Issachar,  and  Zebulun,  had  not  cleansed 
themselves,  yet  did  they  eat  the  passover,  otherwise  than  it  was  writ- 
ten :  but  Hezekiah  prayed  for  them,  saying,  The  good  Lord  pardon 


tfhe  Larger  Catechism,  30 1 

Q^  176.  Wherein  do  the  sacraments  of  baptism 
and  the  Lord's  supper  agree  f 

A.  The  sacraments  of  baptism  and  the  Lord's 
supper  agree,  in  that  the  author  of  both  is  God  ;m 
the  spiritual  part  of  both  is  Christ  and  his  benefits, 
n  both  are  seals  of  the  same  covenant^  are  to  be 

every  one  v.  19.  That  prepareth  his  heart  to  seek  God,  the  Lord 
God  of  his  fathers,  though  he  be  not  cleansed  according  to  the  puri- 
fication of  the  sandtuary.  Isa.  i.  16.  Wash  ye,  make  you  clean,  put 
away  the  evil  of  your  doings  from  before  mine  eyes,  cease  to  do  evil. 
v.  iS.  Come  now,  and  let  us  reason  together,  saith  the  Lord  :  though 
your  sins  be  as  scarlet,  they  shall  be  as  white  as  snowj  though  they 
be  red  like  crimson,  they  shall  be  as  wool. 

/  2  Cor.  vii.  11.  For  behold,  this  selfsame  thing,  that  ye  sorrow- 
ed after  a  godly  sort,  what  carefulness  it  wrought  in  you,  yea,  what 
clearing  of  yourselves,  yea,  what  indignation,  yea,  what  fear,  yea 
what  vehement  desire,  yea,  what  zeal,  yea,  what  revenge !  in  all 
things  ye  have  approved  yourselves  to  be  clear  in  this  matter.  1 
Chron.  xv.  12.  And  (David)  said  unto  them,  Ye  are  the  chief  of  the 
fathers  of  the  Levites  :  sanclify  yourselves,  both  ye  and  your  brethren 
that  you  may  bring  up  the  ark  of  the  Lord  God  of  Israel  unto  the 
place  that  I  have  prepared  for  it.  v.  13.  For  because  ye  did  it  not 
at  the  first,  the  Lord  our  God  made  a  breach  upon  us,  for  that  we 
sought  him  not  after  the  due  order,  v.  14.  So  the  priests  and  the  Le- 
vites san&ified  themselves  to  bring  up  the  ark  of  the  Lord  God  of 
Israel. 

176.  m  Mat.  xxviii.  19.  Go  ye,  therefore,  and  teach  all  nations, 
baptizing  them  in  the  name  of  the  Father,  and  of  the  Son,  and  of  the 
Holy  Ghost.  1  Cor.  xi.  23.  For  I  have  received  of  the  Lord,  that 
which  also  I  delivered  unto  you,  That  the  Lord  Jesus,  the  same 
night  in  which  he  was  betrayed,  took  bread. 

n  Rom.  vi.  3.  Know  ye  not,  that  so  many  of  us  as  were  baptized 
into  Jesus  Christ,  were  baptized  into  his  death?  v.  4.  Therefore 
we  are  buried  with  him  by  baptism  into  death:  that  like  as  Christ 
was  raised  up  from  the  dead  by  the  glory  of  the  Father,  even  so  we 
also  should  walk  in  newness  of  life.  1  Cor.  x.  16.  The  cup  of 
blessing  which  we  bless,  is  it  not  the  communion  of  the  blood  of 
Christ  ?  The  bread  which  we  break,  is  it  not  the  communion  of  the 
body  of  Christ? 

a  Rom.  iv.  11.  And  he  received  the  sign  of  circumcision,  a  seal 
of  the  righteousness  of  the  faith  which  he  had  yet  being  uncircum- 
cised:  that  he  might  be  the  father  of  all  them  'that  believe,  though 
they  be  not  circumcised  ;  that  righteousness  might  be  imputed  uifto 
them  also.  Compared  with  Col.  ii.  12.  Buried  with  him  in  baptism, 
wherein  also  you  are  risen  with  him  through  the  faith  of  the  opera- 


39  2  The  Larger  Catei'Lism. 

dispensed  by  ministers  of  the  gospel,  and  by  none 
other,/)  and  to  be  continued  in  the  church  of 
Christ  until  his  second  coming.^ 

Q^  177.  IV here  in  do  the  sacraments  of  baptism 
and  the  Lord's  supper  differ? 

A.  The  sacraments  of  baptism  and  the  Lord's 
supper  differ,  in  that  baptism  is  to  be  administered 
but  once,  with  water,  to  be  a  sign  and  seal  of 
our  regeneration  and  ingrafting  into  Christ,;*  and 
that  even  to  infants  \s  whereas  the  Lord's  supper 

tion  of  God,  who  hath  raised  him  from  the  dead.  Mat.  xxvi.27. 
And  he  took  the  cup,  and  gave  thanks,  and  gave  it  to  them,  saying, 
Drink  ye  ail  of  it :  v.  28.  For  this  is  my  blood  of  the  new  testament, 
which  is  shed  for  many  for  the  remission  of  sins. 

p  John  i.  33.  And  1  knew  him  not :  but  he  that  sent  me  to  bap- 
tize with  water,  the  same  said  unto  me,  Upon  whom  thou  shah  sec 
the  Spirit  descending,  and  remaining  on  him,  the  same  is  he  which 
baptizeth  with  the  Holy  Ghost.  Mat.  xxviii.  19.  Go  ye,  therefore, 
and  teach  all  nations,  baptizing  them  in  the  name  of  the  Father,  and 
of  the  Son,  and  of  the  Holy  Ghost.  1  Cor.  xi.  23.  For  I  have  re- 
ceived of  the  Lord,  that  which  also  I  delivered  unto  you,  That  the 
Lord  Jesus,  the  same  night  in  which  he  was  betrayed,  took  bread. 
1  Cor.  iv.  1.  Let  a  man  so  account  of  us  as  of  the  ministers  of 
Christ,  and  stewards  of  the  mysteries  of  God.  Hcb.  v.  4.  And  no 
man  taketh  this  honour  unto  himself,  but  he  that  is  called  of 
God,  as  was  Aaron. 

q  Mat.  xxviii.  19.  Go  ye,  therefore,  and  teach  all  nations,  bap- 
tizing them  in  the  name  of  the  Father,  and  of  the  Son,  and  of  the 
Holy  Ghost;  v.  20.  Teaching  them  to  observe  all  things  whatso- 
ever I  have  commanded  you:  and  lo,  I  am  with  you  alvvay,  even 
unto  the  end  of  the  world.  Amen.  1  Cor.  xi.  26.  For  as  otten  as 
ye  cat  this  bread,  and  drink  this  cup,  ye  do  shew  the  Lord's  death 
till  he  come. 

177.  r  Mat.  hi.  1 1.  1  indeed  baptize  you  "with  water,  unto  repent- 
ance: but  he  that  comet h  after  me  is  mightier  than  I,  whose  shoes 
I  am  not  worthy  to  bear  :  he  shall  baptize  you  with  the  Holy  Glio^r, 
and  with  fire.  Tit.  iii.  5.  Not  by  works  of  righteousness  which  we 
Lave  done,  but  according  to  his  mercy  he  saved  us,  by  the  washing 
ol  regent  ration  and  renewing  of  the  Holy  Ghost.  Gal.  iii.  27.  For 
as  many  of  you  as  have  been  baptized  into  Ciirist,  have  put  on 
Christ.  ' 

s  Gen.  xvii.  7.  And  I  will  establish  my  covenant  between  me 
and  thee,  and  thy  seed  af'er  thee  in  their  generation';,  for  an  ever- 


The  Larger  Catechism.  393 

is  to  be  administered  often,  in  the  elements  of 
bread  arid  wine,  to  represent  and  exhibit  Christ 
as  spiritual  nourishment  to  the  soul,?  and. to  con- 
firm our  continuance  and  growth  in  him,i;  and 
that  only  to  such  as  are  of  years  and  ability  to  ex- 
amine themselves. if 

Q.    178.   What  is  prayer  f 

A.  Prayer  is  an  ottering  up  of  our  desires  unto 
God,x  in  the  name  of  Christy  by  the  help  of 


lasting  covenant;  to  be  a  God  unto  thee,  and  to  thy  seed  after  thee. 
v.  9.  And  God  said  unto  Abraham,  Thou  shalt  keep  my  covenant, 
therefore,  thou,  and  thy  seed  after  thee  in  their  generations.  Acts 
ii.  38.  Then  Peter  said  unto  them,  Repent,  and  be  baptized,  ev>eTy 
one  of  you,  in  the  name  of  Jesus  Christ,  for  the  remission  of  sins, 
and  ye  shall  receive  the  gift  of  the  Holy  Ghost,  v.  39.  For  the  pro- 
mise is  unto  you,  and  to  your  children,  and  to  all  that  are  afar  off, 
even  as  many  as  the  Lord  our  God  shall  call.  1  Cor.  vii.  14.  For 
the  unbelieving  husband  is  sanctified  by  the  wife,  and  the  unbeliev- 
ing wife  is  sanctified  by  the  husband ;  else  were  your  children  un- 
clean ;   but  now  are  they  holy. 

/  1  Cor.  xi.  23.  For  I  have  received  of  the  Lord,  that  which  also 
I  delivered  unto  you,  That  the  Lord  fesus,  the  same  night  in  which 
he  was  betrayed,  took  bread  :  v.  24.  And  when  he  had  given  thanks, 
he  brake  it,  and  said,  Take,  eat ;  this  is  my  body,  which  is  broken 
for  you  :  this  do  in  remembrance  of  me.  v.  25.  After  the  same  man- 
ner also  he  took  the  cup,  when  he  had  supped,  saying,  This  cup  is 
the  new  testament  in  my  blood:  this  do  ye,  as  oft  as  ye  drink  ir,  in. 
remembrance  of  me.  v.  26.  For  as  often  as  ye  eat  this  bread,  and 
drink  this  cup,  ye  do  shew  the  Lord's  death  till  lie  come. 

v  1  Cor.  x.  16.  The  cup  of  blessing  which  we  bless,  isit  not  the 
communion  of  the  blood  of  Christ?  The  bread  which  we  break,  is  it 
not  the  communion  of  the  body  of  Christ  ? 

■aj  1  Cor.  xi.  28.  But  let  a  man  examine  himself,  and  so  let  him 
eat  of  that  bread,  and  drink  of  that  cup.  v.  29.  For  he  that  eatetli 
and  drinketh  unworthily,  eateth  and  drinketh  damnation  to  himself, 
not  discerning  the  Lord's  body. 

178.  x  Psal.  lxii.  8.  Trust  in  him  at  all  times;  ye  people,  pour 
out  your  heart  before  him  :  God  is  a  refuge  for  us,     Selah. 

y  John  xvi.  23.  And  in  that  day  ye  shall  ask  me  nothing:  Verily, 
verily,  I  say  unto  you,  Whatsoever  ye  shall  ask  the  Father  in  my 
name,  he  will  give  it  you. 

3D 


394  ^he  Larger  Catechism. 

his  Spirit  ;s  with  confession  of  our  sins,<7  and 
thankful  acknowledgment  of  his  merck 
Q^  i  ~g.  Are  we  to  pray  unto  God  onlyt 
A.  God  only  being  able  to  search  the  hearts,c 
hear  the  requests,*/ pardon  the  sins, rand  fulfil  the 
desires,  of  all ;/  and  only  to  be  believed  in,g  and 
worshipped    with    religious     worship \h    prayer, 

z  Rom.  viii.  26.  Likewise  the  Spirit  also  helpeth  our  infirmities: 
for  we  know  not  what  we  should  pray  tor  as  we  ought :  but  the  Spirit 
itself  maketh  intercession  for  us  with  groanings  which  cannot  be  ut- 
tered. 

a  PsaL  xxxii.  5.  I  acknowledged  my  sin  unto  thee,  and  mine  ini- 
quity have  I  not  nia:  I  said,  I  will  confess  my  transgressions  unto 
the  Lord:  and  thou  forgavest  the  iniquity  of  my  sin.  Selah.  v.  6. 
>"or  this  h.  II  every  one  that  is  godly  pray  unto  thee,  in  a  time  when 
thou  mayest  be  found. — Dan.  ix.  4.  And  I  prayed  unto  the  Lord  my 
God,  and  made  my  confession,  and  said,  O  Lord,  the  great  and 
dreadful  God. — 

6  Phil.  iv.  6.  Be  careful  for  nothing:  but  in  every  thing  by  prayer 
and  supplication,  with  thanksgiving,  let  your  requests  be  made  known 
unto  God. 

179.  c  1  Kings  viii.  39.  Then  hear  thou  in  heaven  thy  dwelling- 
place,  and  forgive,  and  do,  and  give  to  every  rrlan  according  to  his 
ways,  whose  heart  thou  knowest;  for  thou,  even  thou  only,  knowest 
the  hearts  of  all  the  children  of  men.  Acts  i.  24.  And  they  prayed, 
and  said,  Thou  Lord,  which  knowest  the  hearts  of  all  men,  shew 
whether  of  these  two  thou  bast  chosen.  Rom.  viii.  2;.  And  he  that 
searcheth  the  hearts,  knoweth  what  is  the  mind  ol  the  Spirit,  because 
he  maketh  inten  e-^ion  for  the  saints  according  to  the  will  of  God. 

d  Psal.  Ixv.  2.  O  thou  that  nearest  prayer,  unto  thee  shall  all  flesh 
come. 

c  Mic.  vii.  18.  Who  is  a  God  like  unto  thee,  that  pardoneth  ini- 
.,  and  passeth  by  the  transgression  of  the  remnant  of  his  herit- 
age?  he  retaineth  not  his  anger  for  ever,  because  he  delighteth  in 
■ 
f  Psal.  cxl".  iS.    The  Lord  is  nigh  unto  all  them  that  call  upon 
him,  to  all  that  call  upon  him  in  truth,    v.  19.    He  will  fulfil  the 
desire  of  them  that  fear  him:    he  will  also  hear  their  cry,  and  will 
s>ave  them. 

,§■  Rom.  x.  14.  JIow  then  shall  they  call  on  him  in  whom  they 
ba\  e  not  belie  ved  ?  — 

//  Mat.  iv.  10.    Then  <;aith  Jesus  unto  him,  Gel  ■ ,  Sa- 

tan :    for  it  is  written,  Thou  shall  worship  the  Lord  thy  God,  a.ul 
him  only  shalt  thou  serve. 


T? he  Larger  Catechism.  395 

which  is  a  special  part  thereof,?  is  to  be  made  by- 
all  to  him  alone,/6  and  to  none  other./ 

Q.  1 80.  What  is  it  to  pray  in  the  name  of  Christ f 
A.  To  pray  in  the  name  of  Christ,  is,  in  obe- 
dience to  his  command,  and  in  confidence  on  his 
promises,  to  ask  mercy  for  his  sake;?;?  not  by- 
bare  mentioning  of  his  name  ;n  but  by  drawing 
our  encouragement  to  pray,  and  our  boldness, 
strength,  and  hope  of  acceptance  in  prayer,  from 
Christ  and  his  mediation.© 

Q^  181.  Why   are  we  to  pray  in  the  name  of 
Christ ■? 

i  i  Cor.  i.  2.  Unto  the  church  of  God,  which  is  at  Corinth,  to 
them  that  are  sanctified  in  Christ  Jesus,  called  to  be  saints,  with  all 
that  in  every  place  call  upon  the  name  of  Jesus  Christ  our  Lordj 
botli  theirs  and  ours. 

k  Psal.  1.  1 5.  And  call  upon  me  in  the  day  of  trouble ;  I  will  de- 
liver thee,  and  thou  shalt  glorify  me. 

/  Rom.  x.  14.  How  then  shall  they  call  on  him  in  whom  they 
have  not  believed? — 

180.  m  John  xiv.  13.  And  whatsoever  ye  shall  ask  in  my  name, 
that  will  I  do,  that  the  Father  may  be  glorified  in  the  Son.  v.  ij.. 
If  ye  shall  ask  any  thing  in  my  name,  I  will  do  it.  John  xvi.  24. 
Hitherto  have  ye  asked  nothing  in  my  name:  ask,  and  ye  shall  re- 
ceive, that  your  joy  may  be  full.  Dan.  ix.  17.  Now,  therefore,  O 
our  God,  hear  the  prayer  of  thy  servant,  and  his  supplications,  and 
cause  thy  face  to  shine  upon  thy  sanctuary  that  is  desolate,  for  the 
Lord's  sake. 

n  Mat.  vu.  ar.  Not  every  one  that  saith  unto  me,  Lord,  Lord, 
shall  enter  into  the  kingdom  of  heaven :  but  he  that  doth  the  will  of 
my  Father  which  is  in  heaven, 

0  Heb.  iv.  14.  Seeing,  then,  that  we  have  a  great  High  Priest,  that 
is  passed  into  the  heavens,  Jesus  the  Son  of  God,  let  us  hold  fast  our 
profession,  v.  15.  For  we  have  not  an  High  Priest  which  cannot 
be  touched  with  tne  feeling  of  our  infirmities;  but  was  in  all  points 
tempted  like  as  we  are,  yet  without  sin.  v.  16.  Let  us  therefore 
come  boldly  unto  the  throne  of  grace,  that  we  may  obtain  mercy, 
and  find  grace  to  help  in  time  of  need.  1  John  v.  ;  3.  These  Things 
have  I  written  unto  you  that  believe  on  the  name  pf  the  Son  of  (rod; 
that  ye  may  know  that  ye  have  eternal  life,  and  that  ye  may  believe 
on  the  name  of  the  Son  of  God.  v.  14.  And  this  is  the  confidence 
that  we  have  in  him,  that  if  we  ask  any  thing  according  to  his  wilij 
he  heareth  us.  v.  15.  And  if  we  know  that  lie  hear  115,  whatsoever 
we  ask^we  know  that  we  have  the  f  <  itions  ha  we  '  tired  ■ 


396  The  Larger  Catechism. 

A.  The  sinfulness  of  man,  and  his  distance 
from  God  by  reason  thereof,  being  so  great,  as 
that  we  can  have  no  access  into  his  presence  with- 
out a  mediator  ;/>  and  there  being  none  in  heaven 
or  earth  appointed  to,  or  fit  for,  that  glorious 
work  but  Christ  alone  \q  we  are  to  pray  in  no 
other  name  but  his  onlvj- 

Q^  182.  How  doth  the  Spirit  help  us  to  pray  ? 

A.  We  not  knowing  what  to  pray  for  as  we 
ought,  the  Spirit  helpeth  our  infirmities,  by  en- 
abling us  to  understand  both  for  whom,  and  what, 
and  how  prayer  is  to  be  made;  and  by  working 
and  quickening  in  our  hearts  (although  not  in  all 
persons,  nor  at  all  times  in  the  same  measure) 
those  apprehensions,  affections,  and  graces  which 
are  requisite  for  the  right  performance  of  that 
dutv.j- 

181 .  Ji  John  xiv.  6.  Jesus  saith  unto  him,  I  am  the  way,  and  the 
truth,  and  the  life:  no  man  comcth  unto  the  Father,  but  by  me.  Isa. 
lix.  2.  But  your  iniquities  have  separated  between  you  and  your 
God,  and  your  sins  have  hid  his  lace  from  you,  that  he  will  not  hear. 
Epli.  iii.  12.  In  whom  we  have  boldness  and  access  with  confidence 
by  the  laith  of  him. 

q  John  vi.  27.  Labour  not  for  the  meat  which  perisheth,  but  for 
that  meat  which  endureth  unto  everlasting  life,  which  the  Son  of  man 
shall  give  unto  you  :  for  him  hath  God  the  IF  b.  vii. 

25.  Wherefore  he  is  able  also  to  save  them  to  the  uttermost,  that 
come  unto  God  by  him,  seeing  he  ever  liveth  to  make  in  ten 
for  them.  v.  26.  For  such  an  High  Priest  became  us*  who  is  holy, 
harmless,  undchled,  separate  irom  sinners,  and  made  higher  than  the 
ns;  v.  27.  Who  needeth  not  daily,  as  those  high  priests,  to 
offer  up  sacrifice,  first  for  his  own  sins,  and  then  for  the  people's: 
for  this  he  did  on<  e,  when  he  offered  up  himself.  1  Tim.  ii.  ;. 
For  there  is  one  God,  and  one  mediator  between  God  and  men,  tne 
man  Christ  Jesus. 

r  Col.  iii.  17.  And  whatsoever  ye  do  in  word  or  deed,  do  all  in 
the  name  of  the  Lord  ]i  us,  giving  thanks  to  God  and  the  Father 
by  him.     Heb.  xui.  15.    By  him,  therefore,  lei  us  offer  I 
oi  praise  to  God  continually,  that  is,  the  fruit  of  our  lips,  giving 
thanks  to  his  name. 

182.  s  Rom.  viil  a6.  Likewise  the  Spirit  al  1  our  infir- 
mities; for  we  know  not  what  we  should  pray  for  as  we  ought:  but 


tfhe  Larger  Catechism.  297 

Q.   183.  For  whom  are  we  to  pray  ? 

A.  We  are  to  pray  for  the  whole  church  of 
Christ  upon  earth  \t  for  magistrates, <u  and  minis- 
ters ;zv  for  ourselves,*  our  brethren,/  yea,  our 
enemies  ;z  and  for  all  sorts  of  men  livings  or 
that  shall  live  hereafter  \b  but  not  for  the  dead,*; 

the  Spirit  itself  make*  intercession  for  us  with  groanings  which 
cannot  be  uttered,  v.  27.  And  he  that  searcheth  the  hearts,  knovveth. 
what  is  the  mind  of  the  Spirit,  because  he  naketh  intercession  for 
the  saints  according  to  the  will  of  God.  Psal.  x.  17.  Lord,  thou 
hast  heard  the  desire  of  the  humble:  thou  wilt  prepare  their  hunt, 
thou  wilt  cause  thine  ear  to  hear.  Zech.  xii.  10.  And  I  will  pour 
upon  the  house  of  David,  and  upon  the  inhabitants  of  Jerusalem, 
the  Spirit  of  grace  and  of  supplications,  and  they  shall  look  upon  me 
whom  they  have  pierced,  and  thev  shall  mourn. — 

183.  t  Eph.  vi.  18.  Praying  always  with  all  prayer  and  supplica- 
tion in  the  Spirit,  and  watching  thereunto  with  all  perseverance,  and 
supplication  for  all  saints.  Psal.  xxviii.  9.  Save  thy  people,  and  bless 
thine  inheritance:  feed  them  also,  and  life  them  up  for  ever. 

v  1  Tim.  ii.  1.  I  exhort  therefore,  that  first  of  ail,  supplications, 
prayers,  intercessions,  and  giving  of  thanks  be  made  for  all  men : 
v.  2.  For  kings,  and  for  all  that  are  in  authority;  that  we  may  lead 
a  quiet  and  peaceable  life  in  all  godliness  and  honesty. 

\v  Col.  iv.  3.  Withal,  praying  also  for  us,  that  God  would  open 
unto  us  a  door  of  utterance,  to  speak  the  mystery  of  Christ,  for 
which  I  am  also  in  bonds. 

x  Gen.  xxxii.  11.  Deliver  me,  I  pray  thee,  from  the  hand  of  my 
brother,  from  the  hand  of  E-au  :  for  I'fear  him,  lest  he  will  come 
and  smite  me,  and  the  mother  with  the  children. 

y  James  v.  16.  Confess  your  faults  one  to  another,  and  pray  one 
for  another,  that  ye  may  be  healed  :  The  effe#oal  fervent  prayer  of 
a  righteous  man  availeth  much. 

%  Mat.  v.  44.  But  I  say  unto  you,  Love  your  enemies,  bless  them 
that  curse  you,  do  good  to  them  that  hate  you,  and  pray  for  them 
which  despitefully  use  you,  and  persecute  you. 
a   1  Tim.  ii.  1,2.     (See  above  in  v.) 

0  John  xvii.  20.  Neither  pray  I  for  these  alone,  but  for  them  also 
which  shall  believe  on  me  through  their  word.  2  Sam.  vii.  29. 
Therefore  now  let  it  please  thee  to  bless  the  house  of  thy  servant,  that 
it  may  continue  for  ever  before  thee:  for  thou,  O  Lord  God,  hast 
spoken  it;  and  with  thy  blessing  let  the  house  of  thy  servant  be 
blessed  for  ever. 

c  2  Sam.  xii.  si.  Then  said  his  servants  unto  him,  What  thing  is 
this  that  thou  hast  doner  thou  didst  fast  and  weep  for  the  child  while 
it  was  alive,  but  when  the  child  was  dead,  thou  didst  rise  and  eat 


39 8  *fhe  Larger  Catechism. 

nor  for  those  that  are  known  to  have  sinned  the 
sin  unto  death. d 

Q^  184.   For  what  things  are  we  to  pray  f 

A.  We  are  to  pray  for  all  things  tending  to  the 
glory  of  God,<?  the  welfare  of  the  church,/"  our 
owng  or  others  good  \h  but  not  for  any  thing  that 
is  unlawful./ 

Q^  185.  How  are  we  to  pray  ? 

A,  We  are  to  pray  with  an  awful  apprehen- 
sion of  the  majesty  of  God,/C'  and  deep  sense  of 
our  own  unworthiness,/  necessities,;;/  and  sins; 

bread,  v.  22.  And  he  said,  while  the  child  was  yet  alive,  I  fasted 
and  wept,  for  I  said,  Who  can  tell  whether  God  will  be  gracious  to 
me,  that  the  child  may  live?  v.  23.  But  now  he  is  dead,  wherefore 
should  I  last?  can  I  bring  him  back  again?  I  shall  go  to  him,  but 
he  shall  not  return  to  me. 

<l  1  John  v.  16.  If  any  man  see  his  brother  sin  a  sin  which  is  not 
unto  death,  he  shall  ask,  and  he  shall  give  him  life  for  them  that  sin 
not  unto  death.  There  is  a  sin  unto  death  :  1  do  not  bay  that  he 
shall  pray  for  it. 

184.  e  Mat.  vi.  9.  After  this  manner  therefore  pray  ye :  Our 
Father  which  art  in  heaven,  Hallowed  be  thy  name. 

f  Psal.  li.  18.  Do  good  in  thy  good  pleasure  unto  Zion  :  build 
thou  the  walls  of  Jerusalem,  ftal.  exxii.  6.  Pray  lor  the  peace  of 
Jerusalem:  they  shall  prosper  that  love  thee. 

g  Mat.  vii.  11.  If  ye  then,  being  evil,  know  how  to  give  good 
gilts  unto  your  children,  how  much  more  shall  your  Father  which  is 
in  heaven  give  good  things  to  them  that  ask  him  ? 

h  Peal,  ex xv.  4.  Do  good,  O  Lord,  unto  those  that  be  good,  and 
to  them  that  are  upright  in  their  hearts. 

i  1  John  v.  14.  And  this  is  the  confidence  that  we  have  in  him, 
that  if  we  ask  any  thing  according  to  his  will,  he  heareth  us. 

183.  k  Eccl.  v.  i.  Keep  thy  ioot  when  thou  goest  to  the  house 
of  God,  and  be  more  ready  to  hear,  than  to  give  the  sacrifice  of  fools: 
for  they  consider  not  that  they  do  evil. 

/  Gen.  xviii.  27.  And  Abraham  answered  and  said,  Behold  now, 
I  have  taken  upon  me  to  speak  unto  the  Lord,  which  am  but  dust 
and  ashes.  Gen.  xxxii.  10.  I  am  not  worthy  of  the  least  oi  all  the 
mercies,  and  of  all  the  trut!.,  winch  thou  hast  shewed  unto  thy 
servant. — 

/«  Luke  xv.  17.    And  when  he  came  to  himself,  he  said,  How 
many  hired  servants  of  my  lather's  have  bread  enough  and  to 
and  I  perish  with  hunger!     v.  18.  I  *  1  to  my  fju 


^he  Larger  Catechism,  399 

tt with  penitent,^  thankful,/)  and  enlarged  hearts  ;q 
with  understandings  faith,j  sincerity,/1  ferven- 
cy,v  love,w  and  perseverance,^  waiting  upon 
himy  with  humble  submission  to  his  will. z 

and  will  say  unto  him,  Father,  I  have  sinned  against  heaven,  and 
be/ore  thee,  v.  19.  And  am  no  more  worthy  to  be  called  thv  son; 
make  me  as  one  of  thy  hired  servants. 

n  Luke  xviii.  13.  And  the  publican,  standing  afar  off,  would  not 
lift  up  so  much  as  his  eyes  unto  heaven,  but  smote  upon  his  breast, 
saying,  God  be  merciful  to  me  a  sinner,  v.  14.  I  tell  you,  this  man 
went  down  to  his  house  justified  rather  than  the  other :  for  every  one 
that  exalteth  himself,  shall  be  abased;  and  he  that  humbleth  himself, 
shall  be  exalted. 

0  Psal.  li.  1 7.  The  sacrifices  of  God  are  a  broken  spirit:  a  broken 
and  a  contrite  heart,  O  God,  thou  wilt  not  d^pise. 

p.  Phil.  iv.  6.  Be  careful  for  nothing:  but  in  everv  thing  by  praver 
and  supplication,  with  thanksgiving,  let  your  requests  be  made  known 
unto  God. 

q  1  Sam.  i.  15.  And  Hannah  answered  and  said,  No,  mv  Lord, 
I  am  a  woman  of  a  sorrowlul  spirit:  I  have  drunk  neither  wine  nor 
strong  drink,  but  have  poured  out  my  soul  before  the  Lord.  1  Sam. 
5i.  1.  And  Hannah  prayed,  and  said,  My  heart  rejoiceth  in  the 
Lord,  mine  horn  is  exalted  in  the  Lord:  my  mouth  is  enlarged  over 
mine  enemies:  because  I  rejoice  in  thy  salvation. 

r  1  Cor.  xiv.  15.  What  is  it  then?  I  will  pray  with  the  spirit,  and 
I  will  pray  with  the  understanding  also. — 

s  Mark  xi.  24.  Therefore  I  say  unto  you,  What  things  soever  ye 
desire  when  ye  pray,  believe  that  ye  receive  them,  and  ve  shall  have 
them.  James  i.  6.  But  let  him  ask  in  faith,  nothing  waverino-;  for 
he  that  wavereth  is  like  a  wave  of  the  sea,  driven  with  the  wind, 
and  tossed. 

/  Psal.  cxlv.  18.  The  Lord  is  nigh  unto  all  them  that  call  upon 
him,  to  all  that  call  upon  him  in  truth.  Psal.  xvii.  t\  Hear  the 
right,  O  Lord,  attend  unto  my  cry,  give  ear  unto  my  prayer  that 
goeth  not  out  of  feigned  lips. 

v  James  v.  16. — The  effectual  fervent  prayer  of  a  righteous  man 
availeth  much. 

iv  r  Tim.  ii.  8.  I  will,  therefore,  that  men  pray  every  where,  lifting; 
up  holy  hands,  without  wrath  and  doubting. 

x  Eph.  vi.  .18.  Praying  always  with  al!  prayer  and  supplication  in 
the  Spirit,  and  watching  thereunto  with  all  perseverance,  and  sup- 
plication for  all  saints. 

y  Micah  vii.  7.  Therefore  I  will  look  unto  the  Lord  :  I  will  wait 
for  the  God  of  my  salvation  :  my  God  will  hear  me. 

z  Mat.  xxvi.  39.  And  he  went  a  little  further,  and  fell  on  his  fac?. 
and  prayed,  saying,  O  my  Father,  if  it  be  possible,  let  this  cup  pass 
from  me ;  nevertheless,  not  as  I  will,  but  as  thou  wilt. 


400  The  Larger  Catechism. 

Q^  1 86.  Whatsule  hath  God  given  for  our  di~ 
r  Cuii  on  in  ti  of  prayer? 

A.  The  whole  word  of  God  is  of  use  to'direcl" 
ns  in  the  duty  of  prayer  ;a  but  the  special  rule  of 
direction  is  that  form  of  prayer  which  our  Saviour 
Christ  taught  his  disciples,  commonly  called  the 
Ube  Lord's  Prayer. b 

Q^  187.  How  is  the  Lord's  praver  to  be  used? 

A.  The  Lord's  prayer  is  not  only  for  direction, 
as  a  pattern,  according  to  which  we  are  to'  make 
other  prayers,  but  may  also  be  used  as  a  prayer, 
so  that  it  be  done  with  understanding,  faith,  re- 
verence, and  other  graces  necessary  to  the  right 
performance  of  the  duty  of  prayers 

Q.  1S8.  Of  how  many  parts  doth  the  Lord's 
prayer  consist? 

A.  The  Lord's  prayer  consists  of  three  parts; 
a  preface,   petitions,  and  a  conclusion. 

Q^  189.  JVhat  doth  the  preface  of  the  Lord's 
prayer  leach  us? 

a  >'.  The  preface  of  the  Lord's  prayer  (contained 
in  these  words,  Our  Father  which  art  in  He  - 
Ven*d)  teacheth  us,  when  we  pray,  to  draw  near 
to  God  with  confidence  of  his  fatherly  goodness, 
and  our  mterest  therein ;e  with  reverence,  and  all 

186.  a  1  John  v.  14.  And  this  is  the  confidence  that  we  have  in 
him,  that  if  we  ask  anv  thing  according  to  his  will,  he  heareth  us. 

I>  Mat.  vi.  vers.  9 — 13.  After  this  manner  therefore  pray  ye: 
Our  Father,  &V.  Luke  xi.  vers.  2,  5,  4.  And  he  said  unto  them, 
When  ve  pray,  say,  Our  Father,  £/<.-. 

187.  c  Mat.  vi.  9.  Compared  with  Luke  xi.  2.  (See  above  in 
letter  !>.) 

189.  ,1  Mat.  vi.  9. 

r  Luke  xi.  13.  If  ve  then,  being  evil,  know  how  to  give  good 
unto  your  children:  how  much  more  shall  your  heavenly  Fa- 
ther give  the  holv  Spirit  to  them  that  ask  him  ?  Rom.  viii.  15.  For 
ye  have  not  received  the  spirit  or  bondage  igaln  to  fear;  but  ye  have 
received  the  Spirit  of  adoption,  whettby  we  cry,  Abba,  Father. 


*fhe  Larger  Catechism,  401 

tfther  child-like  dispositions^  heavenly  affec- 
tions,^ and  due  apprehensions  of  his  sovereign 
power,  majesty,  and  gracious  condescension:^  as 
also,  to  pray  with  and  for  others./ 

Q^ipo.  What  do  we  pray  for  in  the  first  pe~ 
iition? . 

A.  In  the  first  petition,  (which  is,  Hallowed  be 
thy  nameji)  acknowledging  the  utter  inability  andi 
indisposition  that  is  in  ourselves  and  all  men  to 
honour  God  aright,/  we  pray  that  God  would  by 
his  grace  enable  and  incline  us  and  others  to 
know,   to  acknowledge,  and  highly  to  esteem. 


1  f  Isa.  lxiv.  9.  Be  not  wroth  very  sore,  O  Lord,  neither  remem- 
ber iniquity  for  ever  :  behold,  see,  we  beseech  thee,  we  are  all  thy 
people. 

g  Psal.  cxxiii.  1 .  Unto  thee  lift  I  up  mine  eyes,  O  thou  that  dwellest 
in  the  heavens.  Lam.  iii.  41.  Let  us  lift  up  our  heart  with  our  hands 
unto  God  in  the  heavens. 

h  Isa.  lxiii.  1 5.  Look  down  from  heaven,  and  behold  from  the  ha- 
bitation of  thy  holiness  and  of  thy  glory  :  where  is  thy  zeal  and  thy 
strength,  the  sounding  of  thy  bowels,  and  of  thy  mercies  towards 
Jne?  are  they  restrained?  v.  16.  Doubtless  thou  art  our  Father, 
Though  Abraham  be  ignorant  of  us,  and  Israel  acknowledge  us  not  z 
thou,  O  Lord,  art  our  Father,  our  B.edeemer,  thy  name  is  from 
everlasting.  Neh.  i.  4.  And  it  came  to  pass  when  I  heard  these 
words,  that  I  sat  down  and  wept,  and  mourned  certain  days,  and 
fasted,  and  prayed  before  the  God  of  heaven,  v.  5.  And  said,  I  be- 
seech thee,  O  Lord  God  of  heaven,  the  great  and  terrible  God,  that 
keepeth  covenant  and  mercy  for  them  that  love  him  and  observe  his 
Commandments;  v. 6.  Let  thine  ear  now  be  attentive,  and  thine 
eyes  open,  that  thou  mayest  hear  the  prayer  of  thy  servant,  which  I 
pray  before  thee  now,  day  and  night,  for  the  children  of  Israel  thy 
servants,  and  confess  the  sins  of  the  children  of  Israel,  which  we  have 
sinned  against  thee :  both  I,  and  my  father's  house  have  sinned. 

i  Acts  xii.  5.  Peter  therefore  was  kept  in  prison;  but  prayer  was 
made,  without  ceasing,  of  the  church  unto  God  for  him. 

190.  k  Mat.  vi.  9. 

/  2  Cor.  iii.  5.  Not  that  we  are  sufficient  of  ourselves  to  think 
any  thing  as  of  ourselves  :  but  our  sufficiency  is  of  God.  Psal.  li.  1  £, 
O  Lord,  open  thou  my  lips,  and  my  mouth  shall  shew  forth  thy 
praise, 

3E 


402  The  Larger  CaiecLisnu 

him,;/;  his  titles,;/  attributes,©  ordinances,  word,/> 
works,  and  whatsoever  he  is  pleased  to  make 
himself  known  by;<^  and  to  glorify  him  in 
thought,  word,r  and  deed  :.r  that  he  would  pne- 
vent  and  remove  Atheism,/  ignorance,^  idola- 

m  Psal.  lxvii.  2.  That  thy  way  may  be  known  upon  earth,  thy 
saving  health  among  all  nations,  v.  3.  Let  the  people  praise  tbee,  O 
God;  let  all  the  people  praise  thee. 

11  Psal.  lxxxiii.  18.  That  men  may  know,  that  thou,  whose  name 
alone  is  JEHOVAH,  art  the  Most  High  overall  the  earth. 

0  Psal.  Ixxxvi.  :o.  For  thou  art  great,  and  dost  wondrous  things : 
thou  art  God  alone,  v.  II.  Teach  me  thy  way,  O  Lord,  I  will 
walk  in  thy  truth:  unite  my  heart  to  fear  thy  name.  v.  12.  I  will 
praise  thee,  O  Lord  my  God,  with  all  my  heart:  and  I  will  glorify 
fhy  name  for  evef  more.  v.  13.  For  great  is  thy  mercy  toward  me: 
and  thou  hast  delivered  my  soul  from  the  lowest  hell.  v.  15.  But 
thou,  O  Lord,  art  a  God  full  of  compassion,  and  gracious;  long 
suffering,  and  plenteous  in  mercy  and  truth. 

Ji  2  Thes.  iii.  1.  Finally,  brethren,  pray  for  us,  that  the  word  of 
the  Lord  may  have  free  course,  and  be  glorified  even  as  it  is  with 
you.  Psal.  cxlvii.  19.  He  sheweth  his  word  unto  Facob,  his  statutes 
and  his  judgments  unto  Israel,  v.  20.  He  hath  not  dealt  so  with 
any  nation  :  and  as  for  his  judgments,  they  have  not  known  them. 
Praise  ye  the  Lord.  Psal.  exxxviii.  1.  I  will  praise  thee  with  my 
whole  heart,  before  the  gods  will  I  sing  prabe  unto  thee,  v.  2.  I 
will  worship  towards  thy  holy  temple,  and  praise  thy  name,  for  thy 
loving-kindness,  and  for  thy  truth  :  for  thou  hast  magnified  thy 
word  above  all  thy  name.  v.  3.  In  the  day  when  I  cried,  thou  an- 
swertdst  me  :  and  strengthenedst  me  with  strength  in  my  soul.  2  Cor. 
ii.  14.  Now  thanks  be  unto  God,  which  always  causeth  us  to  tri- 
nmph  in  Christ,  and  maketh  manifest  the  savour  of  his  knowledge 
by  us  in  every  place,  v.  15.  For  we  are  unto  God  a  sweet  savour 
of  Christ,  in  them  that  are  saved,  and  in  them  that  perish. 

q  Psal.  c::lv.  throughout.  1  will  extol  thee,  my  God,  O  King,  &c. 
Psal.  viii.  throughout.  O  Lord,  our  Lord,  how  excellent  is  thy 
name  in  all  the  earth?  &c. 

r  l\::'.  ciii.  1.  Bless  the  Lord,  O  my  soul :  and  all  that  is  within 
mi ,  bless  his  holy  name.  Psal.  xix.  14.  Let  the  wordsof  my  mouth, 
and  the  meditation  oi  my  heart,  be  acceptable  in  thy  sight,  O  Lord, 
my  strength  and  my  Redeemer. 

s  Phil.  19.  And'  this  I  pray,  that  your  love  may  abound  yet  more 
and  more  in  knowledge,  and  in  all  judgment;  v.  11.  Being  filled 
with  the  fruits  of  righteousness,  which  are  by  Jcbii-  CbcJ  t  unto  the 
glory  and  praise  of  God. 

/  Psal.  lxvii.  1.  God  be  merciful  unto  us,  and  biers  us;  and 
his  face  to  shine  upon  us.    Selah.    v.  2,  That  thy  way  may  be 


W%e  Larger  Catechism.  40J 

try,w  profaneness,*  and  whatsoever  is  disho- 
nourable to  himy  and,  by  his  over-ruling  pro- 
vidence, direct  and  dispose  of  all  things  to  his 
own  glory. 3 


known  upon  earth,  thy  saving  health  among  all  nations,  v.  3. 
Let  the  people  praise  thee,  O  God;  let  all  the  people  praise  thee, 
v.  4.  O  let  the  nations  be  glad  and  sing  for  joy:  for  thou  shalt  judge 
the  people  righteously,  and  govern  the  nations  upon  earth.    Selah. 

v  Eph.  i.  17.  That  the  God  of  our  Lord  Jesus  Christ,  the  Father 
of  glory,  may  give  unto  you  the  Spirit  of  wisdom  and  revelation  in, 
the  knowledge  of  him  :  v.  18.  The  eyes  of  your  understanding  be- 
ing enlightened ;  that  ye  may  know  what  is  the  hope  of  his  calling, 
and  what  the  riches  of  the  glory  of  his  inheritance  in  the  saints. 

id  Psal.  xcvii.  /..Confounded  be  all  they  that  serve  graven  images, 
that  boast  themselves  of  idols:  worship  him,  all  ye  gods. 

*  Psal.  lxxiv.  18.  Remember  this,  that  the  enemy  hath  reproach- 
ed, O  Lord,  and  that  the  foolish  people  have  blasphemed  thy  name. 
v.  22.  Arise,  Q  God,  plead  thine  own  cause :  remember  how  the 
foolish  man  reproacheth  thee  daily,  v.  33.  Forget  not  the  voice  of 
thine  enemies:  the  tumult  of  those  that  rise  up  against  thee  increas- 
eth  continually. 

y  2Kingsxix.  1  $.  And  Hezekiah  prayed  before  the  Lord*  and 
said,  O  Lord  God  of  Israel,  which  dwellest  between  the  cherubims, 
thou  art  the  God,  even  thou  alone,  of  all  the  kingdoms  of  the  earth, 
thou  hast  made  heaven  and  earth,  v.  16.  Lord,  bow  down  thine 
ear,  and  hear:  open,  Lord,  thine  eyes,  and  see;  and  hear  the  words 
of  Sennacherib,  which  hath  sent  him  to  reproach  the  living  God. 

z  2  Chron.  xx.  6.  And  (Jehoshaphat)  said,  O  Lord  God  of  our 
fathers,  art  not  thou  God  in  heaven  ?  and  rulest  not  thou  over  all 
the  kingdoms  of  the  heathen  ?  and  in  thine  hand  is  there  not  power 
and  might,  so  that  none  is  able  to  withstand  thee  ?  v.  19.  And  now 
behold,  the  children  of  Amnion,  and  Moab,  and  mount  Seir,  whom 
thou  wouldst  not  let  Israel  invade,  when  they  came  out  of  the  land 
of  Egypt,  but  they  turned  from  them,  and  destroyed  them  not :  v. 
11.  Behold,  I  say,  how  they  reward  us,  to  come  to  cast  us  out  of 
thy  possession,  which  thou  hast  given  us  to  inherit,  v.  12.  O  our 
God,  wilt  thou  not  judge  them?  for  we  have  no  might  against  this 
great  company  that  cometh  against  us  s  neither  know  we  what  to  do, 
but  our  eyes  are  upon  thee.  Psal.  lxxxiii.  throughout.  Keep  not 
thou  silence,  O  God:  hold  not  thy  peace,  &c.  Psal.  cxl.  4.  Keep 
me,  O  Lord,  from  the  hands  of  the  wicked ;  preserve  me  from  the 
violent  man,  who  hath  purposed  to  overthrow  my  goings,  v.  8. 
Grant  not,  O  Lord,  the  desires  of  the  wicked;  further  not  his 
wicked  device,  lest  they  exalt  themselves.     Selah. 


404.  tfhe  Larger  Catechism. 

Q^  191.  What  do  we  pray  for  in  the  second  pe- 
tition f 

A.  In  the  second  petition,  (which  is,  "thy  king- 
dom comedo)  acknowledging  ourselves,  and  all 
mankind,  to  be  by  nature  under  the  dominion  of 
sin  and  Satan, b  we  pray,  that  the  kingdom  of 
sin  and  Satan  may  be  destroy  ed,r  the  gospel  pro- 
pagated throughout  the  world,;/  the  Jews  called,? 
the  fulness  of  the  Gentiles  brought  vn\f  the 
church  furnished  with  all  gospel-officers  and  or- 

191.  a  Mat.  vi.  ip. 

b  Eph.  ii.  2.  Wherein,  in  time  past,  ye  walked  according  to  the 
cou:se  of  this  world,  according  to  the  prince  of  the  power  ot  the  air, 
the  spirit  that  now  worketh  in  the  children  of  disobedience,  v.  3. 
Among  whom  also  we  all  had  our  conversation  in  times  pa^t,  in  the 
lusts  of  our  flesh,  fulfilling  the  desires  of  the  flesh,  and  of  the  mind; 
and  were  by  nature  the  children  of  wrath,  even  as  others. 

c  Psal.  lxviii.  1.  Let  God  arise,  let  his  enemies  be  scattered:  let 
them  also  that  hate  him,  flee  before  him.  v.  18.  Thou  hast  ascend- 
ed on  high,  thou  hast  led  captivity  captive:  thou  hast  received  gilts 
for  men ;  yea,  for  the  rebellious  also,  that  the  Lord  God  might 
dwell  among  them.  Rev.  xii.  10.  And  I  heard  a  loud  voice  saying 
in  heaven,  Now  is  come  salvation  and  strength,  and  the  kingdom  of 
our  God,  and  the  power  of  his  Christ:  for  the  accuser  of  our  bre- 
thren is  cast  down,  which  accused  them  before  our  God  day  and 
night,  v.  1 1.  And  they  overcame  him  by  the  blood  of  the  Lamb, 
and  by  the  word  of  their  testimony;  and  they  loved  not  their  lives 
unto  the  death. 

it  2  Thes.  hi.  1.  Finally,  brethren,  pray  for  us,  that  the  word  of 
the  Lord  may  have  free  course,  and  be  glorified  even  as  it  is  with 
you. 

e  Rom.  x.  I.  Brethren,  my  heart's  desire  and  prayer  to  God  for 
Israel  is,  that  they  might  be  saved. 

/John  xvii.  9.  I  pray  for  them:  I  pray  not  for  the  world,  but  for 
them  which  thou  hast  given  mt ;  for  they  are  thine,  v.  20.  Nehher 
pray  I  for  these  alone,  but  for  them  also  which  shall  believe  on  me 
through  their  word.  Rom.  xi.  25.  For  1  would  not,  brethren,  that 
vc  should  be  ignorant  of  this  mystery,  (lest  ye  should  be  wise  in  your 
own  conceits)  that  blindness  in  part  is  happened  to  Israel,  until  the 
fulness  of  the  Gentiles  be  come  in.  v.  26.  And  so  all  Israel  shall  be 
saved:  as  it  is  written,  There  shall  come  out  of  Sion  the  deliverer, 
and  shall  turn  away  ungodliness  from  Jacob.  P«aL  lxvii.  through- 
out. God  be  merciful  unto  us,  and  bless  u>:  and  cause  his  face  to 
shine  upon  us,  &V. 


tfhe  Large?-  Catechism.  405 

dinancesjg  purged  from  corruption,^  counte- 
nanced and  maintained  by  the  civil  magistrate:/ 
that  the  ordinances  of  Christ  may  be  purely  dis- 
pensed, and  made  effectual  to  the  converting  of 
those  that  are  yet  in  their  sins,  and  the  confirm- 
ing, comforting,  and  building  up  of  those  that 
are  already  converted \k  that  Christ  would  rule 

g  Mat.  ix.  38.  Pray  ye,  therefore,  the  Lord  of  the  harvest,  that  he 
•will  send  forth  labourers  into  his  harvest.  2  Thes.  iii.  1.  Finally, 
brethren,  pray  for  us,  that  the  word  of  the  Lord  may  have  free 
course,  and  be  glorified  even  as  it  is  with  you. 

//  Mai.  i.  11.  For  from  the  rising  of  the  sun  even  unto  the  going 
.down  of  the  same,  my  name  shall  be  great  among  the  Gentiles,  and 
in  every  place  incense  shall  be  offered  unto  my  name,  and  a  pure  of- 
fering: tor  my  name  shall  be  great  among  the  heathen,  saith  the 
Lord  of  hosts.  £eph.  iii.  9.  For  then  will  I  turn  to  the  people  a 
pure  language,  that  they  may  all  call  cpon  the  name  of  the  Lord,  to 
serve  him  with  one  consent. 

i  1  Tim.  ii.  1.  I  exhort,  therefore,  that  first  of  all,  supplications, 
prayers,  intercessions,  and  giving  of  thanks,  be  made  for  all  men: 
v.  2.  For  kings,  and  for  all  that  are  in  authority;  that  we  may  lead 
a  quiet  and  peaceable  life  in  all  godliness  and  honesty. 

k  A£b  iv.  29.  And  now,  Lord,  behold  their  threatnings:  and 
grant  unto  thy  servants,  that  with  all  boldness  they  may  speak  thy 
word,  v.  30.  By  stretching  forth  thine  hand  to  heal:  and  that 
signs  and  wonders  may  be  done  by  the  name  of  thy  holy  child  Jesus. 
Eph.  vi.  18.  Praying  always  with  all  prayer  and  supplication  in  the 
Spirit,  and  watching  thereunto  with  all  perseverance,  and  supplica- 
tion for  all  saints;  v.  19.  And  for  me,  that  utterance  may  be  given 
unto  me,  that  I  may  open  my  mouth  boldly,  to  make  known  the 
mystery  of  the1  gospel,  v.  20.  For  which  I  am  an  ambassador  in 
bonds,  that  therein  I  may  speak  boldly  as  I  ought  to  speak.  Rom. 
xv.  2g.  And  I  am  sure  that  when  I  come  unto  you,  I  shall  come  in 
the  fulness  of  the  blessing  of  the  gospel  of  Christ,  v.  30.  Now  I 
beseech  you,  brethren,  for  the  Lord  Jesus  Christ's  sake,  and  for  the 
love  of  the  Spirit,  that  ye  strive  together  with  me  in  your  prayers  to 
God  for  me :  v.  32.  That  I  may  come  unto  you  with  joy  by  the  will 
of  God,  and  may  with  you  be  refreshed.  2  Thes.  i.  11.  Where- 
fore also  we  pray  always  for  you,  that  our  God  would  count  you 
worthy  of  his  calling,  and  fulfil  all  the  good  pleasure  of  his  goodness, 
and  the  work  of  faith  with  power.  2  Thes.  ii.  16.  Now  our  Lord 
jesus  Christ  himself,  and  God  even  our  Father,  which  hath  loved 
us,  and  hath  given  us  everlasting  consolation,  and  good  hope 
through  grace,  v.  17.  Comfort  your  hearts,  and  stablish  vou  in 
tvery  good  word  and  work, 


40  6  'f'he  Larger  Catechism. 

in  our  hearts  here,/  and  hasten  the  time  of  his 
second  comings  and  our  reigning  with  him  for 
ever:/«  and  that  he  would  be  pleased  so  to  ex- 
ercise the  kingdom  of  his  power  in  all  the  world, 
as  may  best  conduce  to  these  ends.;/ 

Q^  192.  What  do  we  pray  for  in  the  third  pe- 
tition f 

A.  In  the  third  petition,  (which  is,  T*hv  will 
be  done  in  earth  as  it  is  in  heaven/))  acknowledg- 
ing that  by  nature  we  and  all  men  are  not  only 
utterly  unable  and  unwilling  to  know  and  da 
the  will  of  God,^>  but  prone  to  rebel  against  his 

/  Eph.  iii.  14.  For  this  cause  I  bow  my  knees  unto  the  Father  of 
our  Lord  Jesus  Christ,  v.  15.  Of  whom  the  whole  family  in  heaven 
and  earth  is  named,  v.  16.  That  he  would  grant  you,  according 
to  the  riches  of  his  glory,  to  be  strengthened  with  might  by  his  Spirit 
in  the  inner  man :  v.  1  7.  That  Christ  may  dwell  in  your  hearts  by 
faith:  that  ye  being  rooted  and  grounded  in  love,  v.  18.  May  be 
able  to  comprehend  with  all  saints,  what  is  the  breadth,  and  length, 
and  depth,  and  height;  v.  19.  And  to  know  the  love  of  Christ, 
which  passeth  knowledge,  that  ye  might  be  filled  with  all  the  fulness 
of  God.  v.  20.  Now  unto  him  that  is  able  to  do  exceeding  abun- 
dantly above  all  that  we  ask  or  think,  according  to  the  power  that 
worketh  in  us,  v.  21.  Unto  him  be  glory. 

m  Rev.  xxii.  20.  He  which  testifkth  these  things,  saith,  Surely  I 
come  quickly.     Amen.     Even  so,  come  Lord  Jesus. 

n  Isa.  lxiv.  1.  Oh  that  thou  wouldst  rent  the  heavens,  that  thou 
M-ouldst  come  down,  that  the  mountains  might  flow  down  at  thy 
presence:  v.  2.  As  when  the  melting  fire  burnetii,  the  fire  causem 
the  waters  to  boil,  to  make  thy  name  known  to  thine  adversaries, 
that  the  nations  may  tremble  at  thy  pretence.  Rev.  iv.  8.  And  the 
four  beasts  had  each  of  them  six  wings  about  him,  and  thev  were 
full  of  eyes  within  ;  and  thev  rest  not  day  and  night,  saving,  Holy, 
holy,  holy,  Lord  God  Almighty,  which  was,  and  is,  and  is  to 
comrr.  v.  9.  And  when  those  beasts  give  glory,  and  honour,  and 
thanks  to  him  that  sat  on  the  throne,  who  liveth  forever  and  ever, 
v.  10.  The  four  and  twenty  elders  fall  down  before  him  that  sat  on 
the  throne,  and  worship  him  that  liveth  forever  and  ever,  and  cast 
their  crowns  before  the  throne,  saying,  v.  1 1 .  Thou  art  worthy, 
O  Lord,  to  receive  glory,  and  honour,  and  power:  for  thou  hast 
I  all  things,  and  for  thy  pleasure  they  are,  and  were  created. 

192.  0  Mat,  vi.  10. 

h  Rom.  vii.  18.  For  I  know,  that  in  me,  (that  is,  in  my  flesh) 


tfhe  Larger  Catechism,  407 

Word,^  to  repine  and  murmur  against  his  pro- 
vidence^ and  wholly  inclined  to  do  the  will  of 
the  flesh,  and  of  the  devils  we, pray,  that  God 
would  by  his  Spirit  take  away  from  ourselves 
and  others  all  blindness,/  weakness,rj  indisposed- 
ness,w  and  perverseness  of  heart  \x  and  by  his 
grace  make  us  able  and  willing  to  know,  do,  and 


dwelleth  no  good  thing:  for  to  will  is  present  with  me,  but  how  to 
perform  that  which  is  good,  I  find  not.  Job  xxi.  14.  Therefore 
thev  say  unto  God,  Depart  from  us;  for  we  desire  not  the  knowledge 
of  thy  ways.  1  Cor.  ii.  14.  But  the  natural  man  receiveth  not  the 
things  of  the  Spirit  of  God:  for  they  are  foolishness  unto  him; 
neither  can  he  know  them,  because  they  are  spiritually  discerned. 

a  Rom.  viii.  7.  Because  the  carnal  mind  is  enmity  against  God : 
for  it  is  not  subject  to  the  law  of  God,  neither  indeed  can  be. 

r  Exod.  xvii.  7.  And  he  called  the  name  of  the  place  Massah, 
and  Meribah,  because  of  the  chiding  of  the  children  of  Israel,  and 
because  they  tempted  the  Lord,  saying,  Is  the  Lord  among  us,  or 
not?  Numb.  xiv.  2.  And  all  the  children  of  Israel  murmured 
against  Moses,  and  against  Aaron :  and  the  whole  congregation  said 
tinto  then*,  Would  God  that  we  had  died  in  the  land  of  Egypt,  or 
would  God  we  had  died  in  this  wilderness. 

s  Eph.  ii.  2.  Wherein,  in  time  past,  ye  walked  according  to  the 
course  of  this  world,  according  to  the  prince  of  the  power  of  the  air, 
the  spirit  that  now  worketh  in  the  children  of  disobedience. 

t  Eph.  i.  1  7.  That  the  God  of  our  Lord  Jesus  Christ,  the  Father 
of  glory,  may  give  unto  you  the  Spirit  of  wisdom  and  revelation,  in 
the  knowledge  of  him:  v.  18.  The  eyes  of  your  understanding  being 
enlightened  ;  that  ye  may  know  what  is  the  hope  of  his  calling,  and 
what  the  riches  of  the  glory  of  his  inheritance  in  the  saints. 

v  Eph.  iii.  16.  That  he  would  grant  you,  according  to  the  riches 
of  his  glory,  to  be  strengthened  with  might  by  his  Spirit  in  the  in- 
ner man. 

10  Mat.  xxvi.  40.  And  he  cometh  unto  the  disciples,  and  findeth 
them  asleep,  and  saith  unto  Peter,  What,  could  ye  not  watch  with 
fne  one  hourf1  v.  41.  Watch  and  pray,  that  ye  enter  not  into  temp- 
tation :  the  spirit  indeed  is  willing,  but  the  flesh  is  weak. 

x  Jer.  xxxi.  18.  I  have  surely  heard  Ephraim  bemoaning  himself 
thus,  Thou  hast  chastised  me,  and  I  was  chastised,  as  a  bullock  un- 
accustomed to  the  yoke:  turn  thou  me,  and  I  shall  be  turned;  tor 
thou  art  the  Lord  my  God.  v.  19.  Surely  after  that  I  was  turned,  I 
repented;  and  after  that  I  was  instructed,  I  smote  upon  my  thigh: 
I  was  ashamed,  yea,  even  confounded,  because  I  did  bear  the  re- 
proach of  my  youth. 


408  The  Larger  Catechism. 

submit  to  his  will  in  all  things,/  with  the  like 
humility,  s  cheer  fulness,^  faithfulness,£diligence,r 
zeal,^/  sincerity,?  and  constancy,/'  as  the  angels- 
do  in  heaven. p" 


y  Psal.  cxix.  r.  Blessed  are  the  undefiled  in  the  way,  who  walk  in 
the  law  of  the  Lord.  v.  S.  I  will  keep  thy  statutes:  O  forsake  me 
not  utterly,  v.  35.  Make  me  to  go  in  the  path  of  thy  command- 
ments, for  therein  do  I  delight,  v.  36.  Incline  my  heart  unto  thy 
testimonies,  and  not  to  covetoiisness.  Acts  xxi.  14.  And  when  he 
would  not  be  persuaded,  we  ceased,  saying,  The  will  of  the  Lord  be 
done. 

z  Mic.  vi.  8.  He  hath  shewed  thee,  O  man,  what  is  good;  and 
what  doth  the  Lord  require  of  thee,  but  to  do  justly,  and  to  love 
mercy,  and  to  walk  humbly  with  thy  God  ? 

a  Psal.  c.  2.  Serve  the  Lord  with  gladness:  come  before  his  pre- 
sence with  singing.  Job  i.21.  And  (Job)  said,  Naked  came  1  out 
of  my  mother's  womb,  and  naked  shall  I  return  thither :  the  Lord 
gave,  and  the  Lord  hath  taken  away  ;  blessed  be  the  name  of  the 
Lord.  2  Sam.  xv.  25.  And  the  King  said  unto  Zadok,  Carry  back 
the  ark  of  God  into  the  city :  if  1  shall  find  Javour  in  the  eyes  of  the 
Lord,  he  will  bring  me  again,  and  shew  me  both  it  and  his  habita- 
tion, v.  26.  But  if  he  thus  say,  I  have  no  delight  in  thee :  behold, 
here  am  I,  let  him  do  to  me  as  seemeth  good  unto  him. 

b  Isa.  xxxviii.  3.  And  said,  Remember  now,  O  Lord,  I  beseech 
thee,  how  t  have  walked  before  thee  in  truth,  and  with  a  perfect 
heart,  and  have  done  that  which  is  good  in  thy  sight :  and  Hezekiah 
wept  sore. 

c  Psal;  cxix.  4.  Thou  hast  commanded  us  to  keep  thy  precepts  di- 
ligently,    v.  5.  O  tiiat  my  wavs  were  directed  to  keep  thy  statutes  ! 

d  Rom.  xii.  11.  Not  slothful  in  business,  fervent  inspirit;  serv- 
ing the  Lord. 

c  Psal.  cxix.  80.  Let  my  heart  be  sound  in  thy  statutes;  that  I  be 
not  ashamed* 

f  Psal.  cxix.  1 12.  I  have  inclined  mine  heart  to  perform  thy  sta- 
tutes alwav,  even  unto  the  end. 

g  lsa.  vi.  2.  Above  it  stood  the  seraphim1; :  each  one  had  six  wings; 
■with  twain  he  covered  his  face,  and  with  twain  he  covered  his  feet, 
and  with  twain  he  did  fly.  v.  3.  And  one  cried  unto  another,  and 
said,  Holy,  holy,  holy  is  the  Lord  of  iiosts,  the  whole  earth  is  full  of 
his  glorv.  Psal.  ciii.  20.  Bless  the  Lord,  ye  his  angels,  that  excel  in 
strength,  that  do  his  commandments,  hearkening  unto  the  voice  of 
his  word.  v.  21.  Bless  ye  the  Lord,  all  ye  his  hosts,  ye  ministers  of 
his  that  do  his  pleasure.  Mat.  xviii.  10.  Take  heed,  that  ye  despise 
not  one  of  these  little  ones  ;  for  I  say  unto  you,  that  in  heaven  their 
angels  do  always  behold  the  lace  of  my  Father  which  is  in  heaven'. 


¥he  Larger  Catechism.  409 

Q.  193.  What  do  we  pray  for  in  the  fourth 
petition  f 

A.  In  the  fourth  petition  ^  (which  is,  Give  us 
this  day  our  daily  breadth)  acknowledging,  that 
in  Adam,  and  by  our  own  sin,  we  have  forfeited 
our  right  to  all  the  outward  blessings  of  this  life, 
and  deserve  to  be  wholly  deprived  of  them  by 
God,  and  to  have  them  cursed  to  us  in  the  use  of 
them;/  and  that  neither  they  of  themselves  are 
able  to  sustain  us,/'  nor  we  to  merit,/  or  by  our 
own  industry  to  procure  them  \m  but  prone  to 

193.  h  Mat.  vi.  ir. 

2  Gen.  ii.  1 7.  But  of  the  tree  of  the  knowledge  of  good  and  evif^ 
thou  shalt  not-eat  of  it:  for  in  the  day  that  thou  eatest  thereof,  thou 
shalt  surely  die.  Gen.  iii.  1  7.  And  unto  Adam  he  said,  Because  thou 
hast  hearkened  unto  the  voice  of  thy  wife,  and  hast  eaten  of  the  tree 
of  which  I  commanded  thee,  saying,  Thou  shalt  not  eat  of  it ;  cursed. 
is  the  ground  for  thy  sake  :  in  sorrow  shalt  thou  eat  of  it  all  the  days 
of  thy  life.  Rom.  viii.  26.  For  the  creature  was  made  subject  to 
vanity,  not  willingly,  but  by  reason  of  him  who  hath  subjected  the 
same  in  hope:  v.  21.  Because  the  creature  itself  also  shall  be  deli- 
vered from  the  bondage  of  corruption,  into  the  glorious  liberty  of  the 
children  of  God.  v.  22.  For  we  know  that  the  whole  creation 
groaneth,  and  travaileth  in  pain  together  until  now.  Jer.  v.  25. 
Your  iniquities  have  turned  away  these  things,  and  your  sins  have 
withholden  good  things  from  you.  Deut.  xxviii.  from  ver.  15  to  the 
end  of  the  chapter,  v.  1  <;.  But  it  shall  come  to  pass,  if  thou  wilt 
not  hearken  unto  the  voice  of  the  Lord  thy  God,  to  observe  to  do  all 
his  commandments,  and  his  statutes,  which  I  command  thee  this  day; 
that  all  these  curses  shall  come  upon  thee,  and  overtake  thee.  v.  16. 
Cursed  shalt  thou  be  in  the  city,  and  cursed  shalt  thou  be  in  the  field. 
v.  17.  Cursed  shall  be  thy  basket  and  thy  store,  £sV. 

k  Deut.  viii.  3.  And  he  humbled  thee, -and  suffered  thee  to  hun- 
ger, and  fed  thee  with  manna  (which  thou  knewest  not,  neither  did 
thy  fathers  know)  that  he  might  make  thee  know  that  man  doth  not 
live  by  bread  only,  but  by  every  word  that  proceedeth  out  of  the 
mouth  of  the  Lord  doth  man  live. 

/  Gen.  xxxii.  10.  I  am  not  worthy  of  the  least  of  all  the  mercies, 
and  of  all  the  truth,  which  thou  hast  shewed  unto  thy  servant. — 

m  Deut.  viii.  17.  And  thou  say  in  thine  heart,  My  power  and  the 
might  of  my  hand  hath  gotten  me  this  wealth,  v.  18.*  But  thou  shalt 
remember  the  Lord  thy  God,  for  it  is  he  that  giveth  thee  power  to 

3? 


4 1  o  The  Larger  Catechism. 

desire,  n  get,o  and  use  them  unlawfully  \p  wc* 
pray  for  ourselves  and  others,  that  both  they  and 
we,  waiting  upon  the  providence  of  God  from 
day  to  day  in  the  use  of  lawful  means,  may,  of 
his  free  gift,  and  as  to  his  fatherly  wisdom  shall 
seem  best,  enjoy  a  competent  portion  of  them  \q 
and  have  the  same  continued  and  blessed  unto  us, 
in  our  holy  and  comfortable  use  of  them,r  and 
Contentment  in  them  ;s  and  be  kept  from  all  things 

get  wealth,  that  he  may  establish  his  covenant  which  he  sware  unto 
thy  fathers,  as  it  is  this  day. 

n  Jer.  vi.  13.  For  from  the  least  of  them  even  unto  the  greatest 
of  them,  every  one  is  given  to  covttousness:  and  from  the  prophet 
even  unro  the  priest,  every  one  dealeth  falsely.  Mark  vii.  21.  For 
from  within,  out  of  the  heart  of  men,  proceed  evil  thoughts,  adul- 
teries, fornications,  murders,  v.  22.  Thefts,  covetousness,  wicked- 
ness, deceit. — 

0  Hos.  xii.  7.  He  is  a  merchant,  the  balances  of  deceit  are  in  his 
hand  :   he  loveth  to  oppress. 

ji  James  iv.  3.  Ye  ask,  and  receive  Hot,  because  ye  ask  amiss,  that 
ye  may  consume  it  upon  your  lusts. 

q  Gen.  xliii.  12.  And  take  double  money  in  your  hand  :  and  the 
money  that  was  brought  again  in  the  mouth  of  your  sacks,  carrv  it 
again  in  your  hand  ;  peradventure  it  was  an  oversight,  v.  1  3.  Take 
also  your  brother,  anil  arise,  go  again  unto  the  man.  v.  14.  And 
God  Almighty  give  you  mercy  before  the  man. — Gen.  xxviii.  20. 
And  Jacob  vowed  a  vow,  saying,  If  God  will  be  with  me,  and  will 
keep  me  in  this  way  that  I  go,  and  will  give  me  bread  to  eat,  and 
raiment  to  put  on.  Eph.  iv.  28.  Let  him  that  stole,  steal  no  more: 
but  rather  let  him  labour,  working  with  his  hands  the  thing  which 
is  good,  that  he  may  have  to  give  to  him  that  needcth.  2  Thes.  iii. 
11.  For  we  hear  that  there  are  some  which  walk  among  you  disor- 
derly, working  not  at  all,  but  are  busy-bodies,  v.  12.  Now  them  that 
are  such,  we  conuih.nd  and  exhort  by  our  Lord  [esus  Christ,  that 
with  quietness  they  work,  and  eat  their  own  bread.  Phil.  iv.  6.  Be 
careful  for  nothing:  but  in  every  tiling,  by  prayer  and  supplication 
with  thanksgiving,   let  your  requests  lie  made  known  unto  God. 

r  1  Tim.  iv.  3.  Forbidding  to  marry,  and  commanding  to  abstain 
from  meats  which  God  hath  created  to  be  received  with  thanks- 
giving of  them  which  believe  and  know  the  truth,  v.  5.  For  every 
creatureot  God  is  good, and  nothing  to  be  refused,  it  it  be  received  with 
thanksgiving:  v.  5.  For  it  is  sanctified  by  the  w  ordof  God  and  prayer. 

j  1  Tim.  vi.  6.  But  godliness  with  contentment  is  great  gain.  v. 
7.  For  we  brought  nothing  into  this  world,  and  it  is  certain  wc  can 


tfhe  Larger  Catechism,  4 1  \ 

that  arc  contrary  to  our  temporal  support  and 
comfort.  * 

Q.    194.  What  do  we  pray  for  in  the  fifth  petition  ? 

A.  In  the  fifth  petition,  (which  is,  Forgive  us 
our  debts ;  as  we  forgive  our  debtor s,v)  .  acknow- 
ledging, that  we  and  all  others  are  guilty  both  of 
original  and  actual  sin,  and  thereby  become  debt- 
ors to  the  justice  of  God ;  and  that  neither  we, 
nor  any  other  creature,  can  make  the  least  satis- 
faction for  that  debt  :w  we  pray  for  ourselves  and 
others,  that  God  of  his  free  grace,  would,  through 
the  obedience  and  satisfaction  of  Christ  appre- 
hended and  applied  by  faith,  acquit  us  both  from  the 
guilt  and  punishment  of  sin,.*:  accept  us  in  his 

carry  nothing  out.  v.  8.  And  having  food  and  raiment,  let  us  be 
therewith  content. 

t  Prov.  xxx.  8.  Remove  far  from  me  vanity  and  lies :  give  me 
neither  poverty  nor  riches,  feed  me  with  food  convenient  for  me:  v. 

?.  Lest  I  be  full,  and  deny  thee,  and  say,  Who  is  the  Lord?  or  least 
be  poor,  and  steal,  and  take  the  name  of  my  God  in  vain. 

194.  v  Mat.  vi.  ia. 

iv  Rom.  iii.  from  v.  9.1022.  v.  9.  What  then?  Are  we  better  than 
they?  No,  in  no  wise:  for  we  have  before  proved  both  Jews  and 
Gentiles,  that  they  are  all  under  sin;  v.  10.  As  it  is  written,  There 
is  none  righteous,  no  not  one:  v.  11.  There  is  none  that  under- 
standeth,  there  is  none  thatseeketh  after  God.  v.  12.  They  are  all 
gone  out  of  the  way,  they  are  together  become  unprofitable,  there 
is  none  that  doth  good,  no  not  one,  &c.  v.  19. — That  every  mouth 
may  be  stopped,  and  all  the  world  may  become  guilty  before  God, 
&c.  Mat.  xviii.  24.  And  when  he  had  begun  to  reckon,  one  was 
brought  unto  him  which  owed  him  ten  thousand  talents,  v.  25.  But 
forasmuch  as  he  had  not  to  pay,  his  lord  commanded  him  to  be  sold, 
and  his  wife  and  his  children,  and  all  that  he  had,  and  payment  to 
be  made.  Psal.  cxxx.  3.  If  thou,  Lord,  shouldst  mark  iniquities: 
P  Lord,  who  shall  stand  ?  v.  4.  But  there  is  forgiveness  with  thee, 
that  thou  mayest  be  feared. 

x  Rom.  iii.  24.  Being  justified  freely  by  his  grace,  through  the 
redemption  that  is  in  Jesus  Christ:  v.  »£.  Whom  God  hath  set 
forth  to  be  a  propitiation,  through  faith  in  his  blood,  to  declare  his 
righteousness  for  the  remission  of  sins  that  are  past,  through  the  for- 
bearance of  God:  v.  26.  To  declare,  I  say,  at  this  time  his  righte- 
ousness: that  he  might  be  just,  and  the  justifier  of  him  which  bc< 


4 1  %  The  Larger  Catechism. 

Beloved,^  continue  his  favour  and  grace  to  us, % 
pardon  our  daily  failings,^  and  fill  us  with  peace 
and  joy,  in  giving  us  daily  more  and  more  as- 
surance of  forgiveness  \b  which  we  are  the  ra- 
ther emboldened  to  ask,  and  encourap-ed  to  ex- 
peel,  when  we  have  this  testimony  in  ourselves, 
that  we  from  the  heart  forgive  others  their  of- 
fences.*: 

Q^  195.  What  do  we  pray  for  in  the  sixth  pe- 
tition ? 

A.  In  the  sixth  petition,  (which  is,  And  lead 
11s  not  into  temptation,  but  deliver  us  from  evil,d) 
acknowledging,  that  the  most  wise,  righteous, 

lieveth  in  Jesus.  Heb.  ix.  22.  And  almost  all  things  are  by  the  lavy 
purged  with  blood;  and  without  shedding  of  blood  is  no  remission. 

y  £ph.  i.  6.  To  the  praise  of  the  glory  of  his  grace,  wherein  he 
hath  made  us  accepted  in  the  beloved:  v.  7.  In  whom  we  have  re- 
demption through  his  blood,  the  forgiveness  of  sins,  according  to 
the  riches  of  his  grace. 

z  a  Pet.  i.  2.  Grace  and  peace  be  multiplied  unto  you,  through 
the  knowledge  of  God,  and  of  Jesus  our  Lord. 

a  Hos.  xiv.  2.  Take  with  you  words,  and  turn  to  the  Lord,  say 
unto  him,  Takeaway  all  iniquity,  and  receive  us  graciously:  so 
will  we  render  the  calves  of  our  lips.  Jer.  xiv.  7.  O  Lord,  thougn 
our  iniquities  testify  against  us,  do  thou  it  for  thy  name's  bake:  for 
our  backslidings  arc  many,  we  have  sinned  against  thee. 

b  Rom.  xv.  13.  Now  the  God  of  hope  fiil  you  with  all  joy  and 
peace  in  believing,  that  ye  may  abound  in  hope  through  the  power 
of  the  Holy  Ghost.  Psal.  li.  7.  Purge  me  with  lmsop,  and  I  shall 
be  clean:  wash  me,  and  I  shall  be  whiter  than  snow.  v.  8.  Make 
me  to  hear  joy  and  gladness;  that  the  bones  which  thou  hast  broken, 
may  rejoice,  v.  9.  Hide  thy  face  from  niv  iins;  and  blot  out  all 
mine  iniquities,  v.  10.  Create  in  me  a  clean  heart,  O  God;  and 
renew  a  right  spirit  within  me.  v.  ^z.  Restore  unto  me  the  joy  of 
thy  salvation  :  and  uphold  me  with  thy  iree  Spirit. 

<r  Luke  xi.  4.  And  forgive  us  our  sins;  for  we  also  forgive  every 
one  that  is  indebted  to  us. — Mat.  vi.  14..  For,  if  ye  forgive  men 
their  trespasses,  your  heavenly  Father  will  also  forgive  you.  V.  15. 
But  if  ye  forgive  not  men  their  trespasses,  neither  will  vour  Father 
forgive  your  trespasses.  Mat.  xviii.  35.  So  likewise  shall  my  hea- 
venly Father  do  also  unto  you,  if  ye  irom  your  hearts  forgive  net 
every  one  his  brother  their"  tic 

\')y  </Mat.  vi.  13. 


fflje  Larger  Catechism.  413 

and  gracious  God,  for  divers  holy  and  just  ends, 
may  so  order  things,  that  we  may  be  assaulted, 
foiled,  and  for  a  time  led  captive  by  temptations  \e 
that  Satan^the  workup-  and  the  flesh,  are  ready 
powerfully  to  draw  us  aside,  and  ensnare  us;i 
and  that  we  even  after  the  pardon  of  our  sins,  by 
reason  of  our  corruption,/  weakness,  and  want  of 
watchfulness, k  are  not  only  subject  to  be  tempted, 
and  forward  to  expose  ourselves  unto  tempta- 
tions,/ but  also  of  ourselves  unable  and  unwilling 

e  2  Chron.  xxxii.  31.  Howbeit,  in  the  business  of  the  ambassa- 
dors or  the  princes  ot  Baby  ion,  who  sent  unto  him  to  inquire  of  the  ■ 
wonder  that  was  done  in  the  land,  God  left  him  to  try  him,  that  he 
might  know  all  that  was  in  his  heart. 

f  1  Chron.  xxi.  1.  And  Satan  stood  up  against  Israel,  and  provok- 
ed David  to  number  Israel. 

g  Luke  xxi.  34.  And  take  heed  to  yourselves,  lest  at  any  time 
your  hearts  be  overcharged  with  surfeiting,  and  drunkenness,  and 
cares  of  this  life,  and  so  that  day  come  upon  you  unawares.  Mark 
iv.  19.  And  the  cares  of  this  world,  and  the  deceitfulness  of  riches, 
and  the  lusts  of  other  things  entering  in,  choke  the  word,  and  it 
becometh  unfruitful. 

//  James  i.  14.  But  every  man  is  tempted,  when  he  is  drawn  away 
of  his  own  lust,  and  enticed. 

j  Gal.  y.  17.  For  the  flesh  lusteth  against  the  spirit,  and  the 
spirit  against  the  flesh;  and  these  are  contrary  the  one  to  the  other; 
so  that  ye  cannot  do  the  things  that  ye  would. 

k  Mat.  xx vi.  41.  Watch  and  pray,  that  ye  enter  not  into  temptation: 
the  spirit  indeed  is  willing,  but  the  flesh  is  weak. 

/  Mat.  xxvi.  69.  Now  Peter  sat  without  in  the  palace ;  and  a 
damsel  came  unto  him,  saying,  Thou  also  wast  with  Jesus  of  Gali- 
lee, v.  70.  But  he  denied  before  them  all,  saying,  I  know  not  what 
thou  saye'st.'  v.  71.  And  when  he  was  gone  out  into  the  porch, 
another  maid  saw  him,  and  said  unto  them  that  were  there,  This 
fellow  was  also  with  Jesus  of  Nazareth,  v.  72.  And  again  he  de- 
nied with  an  oath,  I  do  not  know  the  man.  Gal.  ii.  11.  But  when 
Peter  was  come  to  Antioch,  I  withstood  him  to  the  face,  because  he 
was  to  be  blamed,  v.  12.  For  before  that  certain  came  from  James, 
did  eat  with  the  Gentiles ;  but  when  they  were  come,  he  withdrew, 
and  separated  himself,  fearing  them  which  were  of  the  circumcision, 
v.  13.  And  the  other  Jews  dissembled  likewise  with  him;  insomuch 
that  Barnabas  also  was  carried  away  with  their  dissimulation,  v.  14. 
But  when  I  saw  that  they  walked  not  uprightly,  according  to  the 
|ruth  of  the  gospel,  I  said  unto  Peter— a  Chron.  xviii.  3.  And  Ahab 


4 1 4.  The  Larger  Catechism. 

to  resist  them,  to  recover  out  of  them,  and  to 
improve  them  \m  and  worthy  to  be  left  under  the 
power  of  them :«  we  pray,  that  God  would  so 
over-rule  the  world  and  all  in  it,<9  subdue  the 
flesh,/?   and  restrain   Satan, 7    order   all   things, 

king  of  Israel  said  unto  Jehoshaphat  king  of  Judah,  Wilt  thou  go 
with  me  to  Ramoth-gilead  ?  And  he  answered  him,  lamas  thou 
art,  and  my  people  as  thy  people,  and  we  will  be  with  thee  in  the 
war.  Compared  with  a  Chron.  xix.  2.  And  Jehu  the  son  of  Hanani 
the  seer,  went  out  to  meet  him,  and  said  to  king  Jehoshaphat, 
Shouldst  thou  help  the  ungodly,  and  love  them  that  hate  the  Lord? 
therefore  is  wrath  upon  thee  from  before  the  Lord. 

m  Rom.  vii.  23.  But  I  see  another  law  in  my  members,  warring 
against  the  law  of  my  mind,  and  bringing  me  into  captivity  totiie  law 
of  sin  which  is  in  my  members,  v.  ^4.  O  wretched  man  that  I 
am,  who  shall  deliver  me  from  the  body  of  this  death  !  1  Chron. 
xxi.  1.  And  Satan  stood  up  against  Israel,  and  provoked  David  to 
number  Israel,  v.  2.  And  David  >aid  to  Joab,  and  to  the  rulers  of 
the  people,  Go,  number  Israel,  from  Beer-sheba  even  to  Dan  ;  and 
bring  the  number  of  them  to  me,  that  1  may  know  it.  v.  3.  And 
Joab  answered,  The  Lord  make  his  people  an  hundred  times  so 
many  more  as  they  be:  but  my  lord  the  king,  are  they  not  all  my 
lord's  servants?  whv  then  doth  my  lord  require  this  thing?  why  will 
he  be  a  cause  of  trespass  to  Israel?  v.  4.  Nevertheless,  the  king's 
word  prevailed  against  foab  :  wherefore  Joab  departed. —  a  Chron. 
xvi.  7.  And  at  that  time  Hanani  the  seer  came  to  Asa  king  of  Judah, 
and  said  unto  him,  Because  thou  hast  relied  on  the  king  of  Syria, 
and  not  relied  on  the  Lord  thv  God,  therefore  is  the  ho^t  of  the  king 
of  Syria  escaped  out  of  thine  hand.  v.  8.  Were  not  the  Ethiopeans 
and  the  Lubims  a  huge  host,  with  very  many  chariots  and  horsemen? 
yet,  because  thou  didst  rely  on  tiie  Lord,  he  delivered  them  into 
thine  hand.  v.  9.  For  the  eyes  of  the  Lord  run  to  and  fro  through- 
out the  w  1,  to  shew  himself  strong  in  the  behalf  of  them 
whose  heart  is  perfect  towards  him.  Herein  thou  hast  done  foolishly ; 
therefore  from  henceforth  thou  shalt  have  wars.  v.  10.  Then  Am 
wroth  with  the  seer,  and  put  him  into  a  prison  house;  for  he- 
was  in  a  rage  with  him,  because  of  this  thing:  and  Asa  oppressed 
Lome  of  thr  people  the  same  time. 

•  P  al.  Ixxxi.  II.  But  my  people  would  not  hearken  to  my  voice  : 
and  Lrael  would  none  of  me.  v.  12.  So  I  gave  them  up  unto  their 
0.1  n  heart's  lust:  and  thev  walked  in  their  own  counsels. 

0  John  xvii.  15.   I  pray   not  that  thou  shouldst  take  them  out  of 
the  world,   but  that  thou  shouldst  keep  them  from  the  evil. 

ll.  li.  10.  Create  in  me  a  clean  heart,  O  God]  and  renew  a 
right  spirit  within  me.  Psal.  cxix.  133.  Order  my  steps  in  thy  word: 
and  let  not  any  iniquity  have  dominion  over  me. 

<i  2  Cor.  xii.  7.    And   lest  I  should  be   exalted  above   measure 


WSe  Larger  Catechism,  4  5  * 

r  bestow  and  bless  all  means  of  grace,*  and  quick- 
en us  to  watchfulness  in  the  use  of  them;  that 
we  and  all  his  people  may,  by  his  providence,  be' 
kept  from  being  tempted  to  sin  ;/  or,  if  tempted, 
that  by  his  Spirit  we  may  be  powerfully  supported 
and  enabled  to  stand  in  the  hour  of  temptation  ;v 
or  when  fallen,  raised  again  and  recovered  out 
of  it,w  and  have  a  sanctified  use  and  improvement 
thereof:^  that  our  san&ification  and    salvation 

through  the  abundance  of  the  revelations,  there  was  given  to  me  a 
thorn  in  the  flesh,  the  messenger  of  Satan  to  buffet  me,  lest  I  ifiould 
be  exalted  above  measure,  v.  8.  For  this  thing  I  besought  the  Lord 
thrice,  that  it  might  depart  from  me. 

r  i  Cor.  x.  is.  Wherefore  let  him  thatthinketh  he  standeth,  take 
heed  lest  he  fall.  v.  13.  There  hath  no  temptation  taken  you,  but 
such  as  is  common  to  man:  but  God  is  faithful,  who  will  not  suffer 
you  to  be  tempted  above  that  ye  are  able;  but  will  with  the  tempta- 
tion also  make  a  way  to  escape,  that  ye  may  be  able  to  bear  it. 

s  Heb.  xiii.  20.  Now  the  God  of  peace, 'that  brought  again' from 
the  dead  our  Lord  Jesus,  that  great  Shepherd  of  the  sheep,  through, 
the  blood  of  the  everlasting  covenant,  v.  ai.  Make  you  perfecl In 
every  good  work,  to  do  his  will,  working  in  you  that  which  is  well 
pleasing  in  his  sight,  through  Jesus  Christ. 

m  t  Mat.  xxvi.  41.  Watch  and  prav,  that  ve  enter  not  into  tempta- 
tion.— Psal.  xix.  13.  Keep  back  thy  servant  also  from  presumptuous 
sins,  let  them  not  have  dominion  over  me:  then  shall  I  be  upright 
and  I  shall  be  innocent  from  the  great  transgression. 

•wEph.  iii.  14.  For  this  cause  I  bow  mv  knees  unto  the  Father  of 
our  Lord  Jesus  Christ,  v.  15.  Of  whom  the  whole  family  in  heaven 
and  earth  is  named,  v.  16.  That  he  would  grant  vou,  according  to 
the  riches  of  his  glory,  to  be  strengthened  with  might  by  his  Spirit 
in  the  inner  man;  v.  17.  That  Christ  may  dwell  in  your  hearts  by 
faith.— 1  Thes.  iii.  13.  To  the  end  he  may  stablish  your  hearts  un- 
blameable  in  holiness  before  God,  even  our  Father,  at  the  coming 
of  our  Lord  Jesus  Christ  with  all  his  saints.  Jude,  ver.  24.  Now 
unto  him  that  is  able  to  keep  you  from  falling,  and  to  present  you 
faultless,  before  the  presence  of  his  glory  with  exceeding  joy. 

to  PSal.  li.  12.  Restoie  unto  me  thejovof  thy  salvation:  anduo- 
nold  me  with  thy  tree  Spirit. 

xx  Pet.  v.  8.  Be  sober,  be  vigilant;  because  your  adversary  the 
devil,  as  a  roaring  lion,  walketh  about  seeking  whom  he  may  de- 
VOUr*  *:$■  Whom  resist  stedfast  in  the  faith,  knowing  that  the 
same  afflictions  are  accomplished  in  your  brethren  that  are  in  the 
world,    v.  10.  But  the  God  of  all  grace,  who  hath  called  us  unto 


4 l 6  life  Larger  Calechisni. 

may  be  perfected, v  Satan  trodden  under  our  fee 
and  we  fully  freed  from  sin,  temptation,  and  all 
evil  for  ever.*? 

Q^ig6.  JVbat  doth  the  conclusion  of  the  Lord's 
prayer  teach  US? 

A.  The  conclusion  of  the  Lord's  prayer  (which 
is,  For  thine  is  the  kingdom,  and  the  power,  and  the 
glory,  for  ever.  Amenjt)  teacheth  us  to  enforce 
our  petitions  with  arguments,*:  which  are  to  be 
taken,  not  from  any  worthiness  in  ourselves,  or 
in  any  other  creature,  but  from  God,^  and  with 

his  eternal  glory  by  Christ  Jesus;  after  that  ye  have  suffered  a  while, 
make  you  perfect,  stablish,  strengthen,  settle  you. 

y  2  Cor.  xiii.  7.  Now  I  pray  to  God  that  you  do  no  evil;  not  that 
we  should  appear  approved,  but  that  ye  should  do  that  which  is 
honest,  though  we  be  as  reprobates,  v.  9.  For  we  are  glad  when. 
we  are  weak,  and  ye  are  strong;  and  this  also  we  wish,  even  your 
perfection. 

z  Rom.  xvi.  20.  And  the  God  of  peace  shall  bruise  Safan  under 
your  feet  shortly. — Zech.  iii.  2.  And  the  Lord  said  unto  Satan, 
The  Lord  rebuke  thee,  O  Satan,  even  the  Lord  that  hath  chosen  Je- 
rusalem, rebuke  thee:  is  not  this  a  brand  plucked  out  of  the  fire? 
Lyke  xxii.  31.  And  the  Lord  said,  Simon,  Simon,  behold,  Satan 
hath  desired  to  have  you,  that  he  may  sift  you  as  wheat:  v.  32.  But 
I  have  prayed  for  thee,  that  thy  faith  fail  not;  and  when  thou  art 
unto  converted,  strengthen  thy  brethren. 

a  Jclm  xvii.  1  c.  1  pray  not  that  thou  shouldst  take  them  out  of 
the  world,  but  that  thou  shouldest  keep  them  from  the  evil.   1  Thes. 
v.  23.  And  the  very  God  of  peace  sanctify  you  wholly:  and  I  pray 
God  your  whole  spirit,  and  soul,  and  body,  be  preserved  biam. 
unto  the  coming  of  our  Lord  Jesus  Christ. 

196.  b  Mat.  vi.  1  3. 

c  Rom.  xv.  30.  Now  I  beseech  you,  brethren,  for  the  Lord  Jesus 
Christ's  sake,  and  ior  the  love  of  the  Spirit,  that  ye  strive  together 
with  me  in  your  prayers  to  Gud  for  me. 

J  Dan.  ix.  4.  And  I  prayed  unto  the  Lord  my  God,  and  made  my 
confession,  and  said,  O  Lord,  the  great  and  dreadful  God,  keeping 
the  covenant  and  mercy  to  them  that  love  him,  and  to  them  that 
keep  his  commandments. — v.  7.  O  Lord,  righteousness  belongeth. 
unto  thee,  but  unto  us  confusion  of  faces,  as  at  this  day. — v.  8.  O 
Lord,  to  us  belongeth  confusion  of  lace,  to  our  kings,  to  our 
princes,  and  to  our  fathers,  because  we  have  sinned  against  thee, 
v.  9.   To  the  Lord    our   God    belong   mercies   and   forgivenesses, 


*tfje  Larger  Catechism,  4 1 7 

our  prayers  to  join  praises,*?  ascribing  to  God 
alone  eternal  sovereignty,  omnipotency,  and  o-lo- 
rious  excellency  \f  in  regard  whereof,  as  he  is  able 
and  willing  to  help  us,g  so  we  by  faith  are  em- 
boldened to  plead  with  him  that  he  would, h  and 
quietly  to  rely  upon  him  that  he  will,  fulfil  our 

though  we  have  rebelled  against  him.  v.  16.  O  Lord,  according  to 
all  thy  righteousness,  I  beseech  thee,  let  thine  anger  and  thy  fury  be 
turned  away  from  thy  city  Jerusalem. — v.  17.  Now  therefore  O 
our  God,  hear  the  prayer  of  thy  servant,  and  his  supplications,  and 
cause  thy  face  to  shine  upon  thy  sanctuary  that  is  desolate,  for  the 
Lord's  sake.  v.  iS.  O  my  God,  incline  thine  ear,  and  hear;  open 
thine  eyes,  and  behold  our  desolations,  and  the  city  which  is  called 
by  thy  name:  for  we  do  not  present  our  supplications  before  thee  for 
our  righteousnesses,  but  for  thy  great  mercies,  v.  19.  O  Lord,  hear, 
O  Lord,  forgive,  O  Lord,  hearken  and  do,  defer  not,  for  thine 
own  sake,  O  my  God:  for  thy  city,  and  thy  people  are  called  bv 
thy  name. 

e  Phil.  iv.  6.  Be  careful  for  nothing:  but  in  every  thing,  by  prayer 
and  supplication  with  thanksgiving,  let  your  requests  be  made  known, 
unto  God,  &c. 

f  1  Chron.  xxix.  10.  Wherefore  David  blessed  the  Lord  before  all 
the  congregation :  and  David  said,  Blessed  be  thou,  Lord  God  of 
Israel  our  Father,  for  ever  and  ever.  v.  n.  Thine,  O  Lord,  is  the 
greatness,  and  the  power,  and  the  glory,  and  the  victory,  and  the 
majesty:  for  all  that  is  in  the  heaven  and  in  the  earth  is  thine; 
thine  is  the  kingdom,  O  Lord,  and  thou  art  exalted  as  head  above 
all.  v.  12.  Both  riches  and  honour  come  of  thee,  and  thou  reio-nest 
over  all,  and  in  thine  hand  is  power  and  might,  and  in  thine  ha'nd  it 
is  to  make  great,  and  to  give  strength  unto  all.  v.  13.  Now,  there- 
fore, our  God,  we  thank  thee,  and  praise  thy  glorious  name. 

g  Eph.  iii.  20.  Now  unto  him  that  is  able  to  do  exceeding  abun- 
dantly above  all  that  we  ask  or  think,  according  to  the  power  that 
worketh  in  us,  v.  21.  Unto  him  be  glory  in  the  church  by  Christ 
Jesus,  throughout  ail  ages,  world  without  end.  Amen.  Luke  xi. 
13.  If  ye  then,  being  evil,  know  how  to  give  good  gifts  unto  your 
children;  how  much  more  shall  your  heavenly  Father  give  the  holy 
Spirit  to  them  that  ask  him? 

h  2  Chron.  xx.  6.  And  (Jehoshaphat)  said,  O  Lord  God  of  our 
fathers,  art  not  thou  God  in  heaven  ?  and  ru.'est  not  thou  over  all 
the  kingdoms  of  the  heathen  ?  and  in  thine  hand  is  there  not  power 
and  might,  so  that  none  is  able  to  withstand  thee?  v.  11.  Behold,  I 
say,  how  they  reward  us,  to  come  to  cast  us  out  of  thv  possession, 
which  thou  hast  given  us  to  inherit. 

3G 


4 1 8  The  Larger  Catechism. 

requests./     And,    to  testify   this  our  desire  and 
assurance,  we  say,  Amen.k 

i  2  Chron.  xiv.  i  r.  And  Asa  cried  unto  the  Lord  his  God,  and 
said,  Lord,  it  is  nothing  with  thee  to  help,  whether  with  many,  or 
with  them  that  have  no  power:  help  us,  O  Lord  our  God;  for  wc 
fest  on  thee,  and  in  thy  name  we  go  against  this  multitude:  O  Lord, 
thou  art  our  God,  let  not  man  prevail  against  thee. 

k  i  Cor.  xiv.  16.  Else,  when  thou  shalt  bless  with  the  spirit,  how 
shall  he  that  occupieth  the  room  of  the  unlearned  say,  Amen,  at  thy 
giving  of  thanks,  seeing  he  understandeth  not  what  thou  sayest  ? 
Rev.  xxii.  20.  He  which  testifieth  these  things,  saith,  Surely  I  come 
quickly.  Amen.  Even  so,  come,  Lord  Jesus,  v.  21.  The  grace 
of  our  Lord  Jesus  Christ  be  with  you  all.     Amen. 


THE 


SHORTER  CATECHISM 


AGREED  UPON  BY  THE 


ASSEMBLY  OF  DIVINES  AT  WESTMINSTER, 


WITH    THE    ASSISTANCE    05 


COMMISSIONERS 


FROM    THE 


CHURCH   OF   SCOTLAND, 


A3    RECEIVED    BY    THE 


ASSOCIATE-REFORMED   CHURCH 


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WITH    TIU 


PROOFS  FROM  THE  SCRIPTURE. 


NEW-YORK: 
Printed  by  T.  $c  J.  SWORDS,  No,  99  Pearl-ftreet, 

1799° 


THE 

SHORTER  CATECHISM. 


Question  i.    W  HAT  is  the  chief  end  of  man? 

Answer.  Man's  chief  end  is,  to  glorify  God,<rz 
and  to  enjoy  him  for  ever.^ 

Q.  2.  What  rule  hath  God  given  to  direct  us 
how  we  may  glorify  and  enjoy  him? 

A.  The  word  of  God,  which  is  contained  in 
the  scriptures  of  the  Old  and  New  Testaments. c 
is  the  only  rule  to  direct  us  how  we  may  glorify 
and  enjoy  h'im.d 

Q^3.  What  do  the  scriptures  principally  teach? 

A.  The  scriptures  principally  teach,  what  man 
is  to  believe  concerning  God,  and  what  duty  God 
requires  of  man.*? 

a  1  Cor.  x.  31.  Whether  therefore  ye  eat  or  drink,  or  whatso- 
ever ye  do,  do  all  to  the  glory  of  God.  Rom.  xi.  36.  For  of 
him,  and  through  him,  and  to  him  are  all  things  :  to  whom  be  glory 
for  ever.     Amen. 

b  Psal.  lxxiii.  25.  Whom  have  I  in  heaven  but  thee?  and  there 
Is  none  upon  earth  that  I  desire  beside  thee.  v.  26.  My  flesh  and 
my  heart  faileth  :  but  God  is  the  strength  of  my  heart,  and  my  por- 
tion for  ever.  v.  27.  For  lo,  thev  that  are  far  from  thee,  shall  perish : 
thou  hast  destroyed  all  them  that  go  a-whoring  from  thee.  v.  28. 
But  it  is  good  for  me  to  draw  near  to  God:  I  have  put  my  trust^n 
the  Lord  God,  that  I  may  declare  all  thy  works. 

2.  c  2  Tim.  hi.  16.  All  scripture  is  given  by  inspiration  of 
God,  and  is  profitable  for  doftrine,  for  reproof,  for  correction,  for 
instruction  in  righteousness.  Eph.  ii.  20.  And  are  built  upon  the 
foundation  of  the  apostles  and  prophets,  Jesus  Christ  himself  being 
the  chief  corner-stone. 

d  1  John  i.  3.    That  which  we  have  seen  and  heard  declare  we 

unto  you,  that  ye  also  may  have  fellowship  with  us  :  and  trulv  out 

fellowship  is  with  the  Father,  and  with  his  Son  Jesus  Christ,    'v.  4. 

And  these  things  write  we  unto  you,  that  your  joy  may  be  full. 

3.  e  z  Tim.  i,  13,     Hold  fast  the  form  of  sound  words,  which 


422  The  Shorter  Catechism. 

Q^4.  What  is  God? 

A.  God  is  a  Spirit,/'  infinite,^  eternal, h  and 
unchangeable,/  in  his  being,/-  wisdom,/  power,?/; 
holiness,/!  justice,  goodness,  and  truth.fi 

Q.   5.  Are  there  more  Gods  than  one? 

A.  There  is  but  one  only,  the  living  and  true 
God./ 

thou  hast  heard  of  me,  in  faith  and  love  which  is  in  Christ  Jesi^. 
2  Tim.  iii.   16.     'See  in  letter  c.) 

4.  f  John  iv.  24.  God  is  a  Spirit,  and  they  that  worship  him? 
must  worship  him  in  spirit  and  in  truth. 

g  Job  xi.  7.  Canst  thou  by  searching  find  out  God  ?  canst 
thou  rind  out  the  Almighty  unto  perfection  ?  v.  3.  It  is  as  high  as 
heaven,  what  canst  thou  dor  deeper  than  hell,  what  canst  thou 
know  r  v.  9.  The  measure  thereof  is  longer  than  the  earth,  and 
broader  than  the  sea. 

/;  Psal.  xc.  2.  Before  the  mountains  were  brought  forth,  or  ever 
thou  hadst  formed  the  earth  and  the  world:  even  from  everlasting 
to  everlasting  thou  art  God. 

i  James  i.  1  7.  Every  good  gift,  and  every  perfect  gift  is  from 
above,  and  cometh  down  from  the  Father  of  lights,  with  whom  is  no 
variableness,  neither  shadow  of  turning. 

k  Exod.  iii.  14.  And  God  said  unto  Moses,  I  AM  THAT  I  AM: 
and  he  said,  Thusshalt  thou  say  unto  the  children  ot  Israel,  I  AM 
hath  sent  me  unto  you. 

/  Psal.  cxlvii.  5.  Great  is  our  Lord,  and  of  great  power:  his  un- 
derstanding is  infinite. 

m  Rev.  iv.  8.  And  the  four  beasts  had  each  of  them  six  wing", 
about  him,  and  they  were  full  of  eyes  within  ;  and  they  rest  not  day 
and  night,  saying,  Holy,  holy,  holy,  Lord  God  Almighty,  which 
was,  and  is,  and  is  to  come. 

11  Rev.  xv.  4.  Who  shall  not  fear  thee,  O  Lord,  and  glorify  thy 
name  ?  for  thou  only  art  holy :  for  ah  nations  shall  come  and  worship 
before  thee;  foi  ments  are  made  manifest. 

0  Exod.  w.v.v.  6.  And  the  !-  ■  by  before  him,  and  pro- 

claimed, The  Lord,  tlic  Lord  God,  merciful  and  gracious,    long- 
suffering, and  abundant  in  goodness  and  truth,    v.  7.  Keeping  1... 
for  thousands,  forgiving  iniquity,  and  transgression,  and  sin,  and 
that  will  by  no  means  clear  I  :  visiting  the  iniquity  oi  the 

pon  the  children,  and  upon  the  children's  children,  unto  the 
third  and  to  the  ton;  1  ion. 

Deut.  vi.  4.  Hear,  O  3  rael,  the  Lord  our  God  is  one  Lord; 
Jer.  x.  ;  Lord  is  the  true  God,  he  i-  the  Iii  .  and 

ancv  £i°R:  *t  his  wrath  the  1  te,  and  the 

on. 


tfhe  Shorter  Catechism,  423 

Q^6.  How  many  persons  are  there  in  the  God- 
head? 

A.  There  are  three  persons  in  the  God-head ; 
the  Father,  the  Son  and  the  Holy  Ghost;  and 
these  three  are  one  God,  the  same  in  substance, 
equal  in  power  arid  glory. q 

Q^  7.  What  are  the  decrees  of  God? 

A.  The  decrees  of  God  are,  his  eternal  pur- 
pose according  to  the  counsel  of  his  will,  where- 
by, for  his  own  glory,  he  hath  fore-ordained 
whatsoever  comes  to  pass.r 

Q^  8.  How  doth  God  execute  his  decrees? 

A.  God  executeth  his  decrees  in  the  works  of 
creation  and  providence. 

Q^o.   What  is  the  work  of  creation? 

A.  The  work  of  creation  is,  God's  making  all 
things  of  nothing,  by  the  word  of  his  power,  in 
the  space  of  six  days,  and  all  very  good.j 

Q^  1  o.  How  did  God  create  man  ? 

A.  God  created  man  male  and  female,  after 


6.  y  1  John  v.  7.  For  there  are  three  that  bear  record  in  heaven, 
the  Father,  the  Word,  and  the  Holy  Ghost :  and  these  three  are 
one.  Mat.  xxviii.  19.  Go  ye  therefore  and  teach  all  nations,  bap- 
tizing them  in  the  name  of  the  Father,  and  of  the  Son,  and  of  the 
Holy  Ghost. 

7.  r  £ph.  i.  4.  According  as  he  hath  chosen  us  in  him,  before  the 
foundation  of  the  world,  that  we  should  be  holy,  and  without  blame 
before  him  in  love,  v;  ft.  In  whom  also  we  have  obtained  an  in- 
heritance, being  predestinated  according  to  the  purpose  of  him  who 
worketh  all  things  after  the  counsel  of  his  own  will.  Rom.  ix.  22'. 
What  if  God,  willing  to  shew  his  wrath,  and  to  make  his  power 
known,  endured  with  much  long-suffering  the  vessels  of  wrath  fitted 
to  destruction  .*  v.  23.  And  that  he  might  make  known  the  riches  of 
his  glory  on  the  vessels  of  mercy,  which  he  had  afore  prepared  unto 
glory  ? 

9.  s  Gen.  i.  throughout.  Heb.  xi.  3.  Through  fa'rth  we  under- 
stand, that  the  worlds  were  framed  by  the  word  of  God,  so  that  things 
which  are  seen  were  not  made  of  things  which  do  appear. 


4^4  %%*  Shorter  Catechism', 

his  own  image,  in  knowledge,  righteousness,  and 
holiness,  with  dominion  over  the  creatures./ 

Q^  i  i .   What  are  God' *s  works  of  providence  ? 

A.  God's  works  of  providence  are,  his  most 
holy,i>  wise,ic/  and  powerful  preserving,*  and 
crovcrnincr  all  his  creatures,  and  all  their  actions.* 

Q^  12.  What  special  acl  of  providence  did  God 
exercise  to/ward  man  in  the  estate  wherein  he  was 
created? 

A.  When  God  had  created  man,  he  entered 
into  a  covenant  of  life  with  him,  upon  condition 
of  perfect  obedience:    forbidding  him  to  eat  of 


io.  /  Gen.  i.  26.  And  God  said,  Let  us  make  man  in  oir: 
image,  after  our  likeness:  and  let  them  have  dominion  over  the  fish 
of  the  sea,  and  over  the  fowl  of  the  air,  and  over  the  cattle,  and  over 
all  the  earth,  and  over  every  creeping  thing  that  creepeth  upon  the 
earth,  v.  27.  So  God  created  man  in  his  own  image,  in  the  image 
of  God  created  he  him:  male  and  female  created  he  them.  v.  zS. 
And  God  blessed  them,  and  God  said  unto  them,  Be  fruitful  and 
multiply,  and  replenish  the  earth,  and  subdue  it :  and  have  domi- 
nion over  the  fish  of  the  sea,  and  over  the  fowl  of  the  air,  and  over 
every  living  thing  that  moveth  upon  the  earth.  Col.  iii.  10.  And 
have  put  on  the  new  man,  which  is  renewed  in  knowledge,  after  the 
image  of  him  that  created  him.  Eph.  iv.  24.  And  that  ye  put  on 
the  new  man,  which  after  God  is  created  in  righteousness  and  true 
holiness. 

11.  v  Psal.  cxlv.  1  7.  The  Lord  is  righteous  in  all  his  ways,  and 
holy  in  all  his  works. 

I.  <  iv.  24.  O  Lord,  how  manifold  are  thv  works !   in  wi;- 
dom  bast  thou  made  them  all :  the  earth  is  full  <A  thy  rit  lie  .     I- 
vwiii.  29.  Tim  also  Cometh  forth  from  the  Lord  of  hosts,  which 
is  wonderful  in  counsel,  and  excellent  in  working. 

.v  Heb.  i.  3.  Who  being  the  brightro  ol  his  glory,  and  the  ex- 
pre^  I  his  person,  and  upholding  all  things  by  the  word  of 

his  power,  when  he  had  by  himself  purged  our  sins,  sat  down  on  the 
hand  of  tin  M      tj  on  high. 

i.  ciii.  19.  The  Lord  bath  prepared  his  throne  in  the  bea- 
:  and  his    kingdom  ruleth  over  a. I.      M   t.    ..29.   Arc  not  two 
sparrows  sold  lor  a  farthing?  and  oik-  of  them  shall  not  fall  on  the 
ground  without  your  Father,    v.  30.  But  the  very  hairs  of  your  head 
II  numbered,     v.  3 1 .  J't  ar  J  c  not,  therefore,  ye  are  of  more  va- 
lue than  many  sparrows. 


The  Shorter  Catechism.  425 

the  tree  of  the  knowledge  of  good  and  evil,  upon 
the  pain  of  death.s 

0^13.  Did  our  first  parents  continue  in  the 
estate  wherein  they  were  created  f 

A.  Our  first  parents,  being  left  to  the  freedom 
of  their  own  will,  fell  from  the  estate  wherein 
they  were  created,  by  sinning  against  God.a 

0^14.  What  is  sinf 

A.  Sin  is  any  want  of  conformity  unto,  or 
transgression  of,  the  law  of  God.3 

0^15.  What  was  the  sin  whereby  our  first 
parents  fell  from  the  estate  wherein  they  were 
created? 

A.  The  sin  whereby  our  first  parents  fell  from 
the  estate  wherein  they  were  created,  was  their 
eating  the  forbidden  fruit.c 

Q^  1 6.  Did  all  mankind  fall  in  Adam's  first 
transgression  ? 

12.  z  Gal.  Hi.  12.  And  the  law  is  not  of  faith:  but,  The  man 
that  doth  them  shall  live  in  them.  Gen.  ii.  17.  But  of  the  tree  of 
the  knowledge  of  good  and  evil,  thou  shalt  not  eat  of  it :  for  in  the 
day  that  thou  eatest  thereof,  thou  shalt  surely  die. 

13.  a  Gen.iii.  6.  And  when  the  woman  saw  that  the  tree  was 
good  for  food,  and  that  it  was  pleasant  to  the  eyes,  and  a  tree  to  be 
desired  to  make  one  wise,  she  took  of  the  fruit  thereof,  and  did  eat, 
and  gave  also  unto  her  husband  with  her ;  and  he  did  eat.  v.  7. 
And  the  eyes  of  them  both  were  opened,  and  they  knew  that  they 
were  naked :  and  they  sewed  fig-leaves  together,  and  made  themselves 
aprons,  v.  8.  And  they  heard  the  voice  of  the  Lord  God  walking 
in  the  garden  in  the  cool  of  the  day:  and  Adam  and  his  wife  hid 
themselves  from  the  presence  of  the  Lord  God,  amongst  the  trees  of 
the  garden,  v.  1 3.  And  the  Lord  God  said  unto  the  woman,  What 
is  this  that  thou  hast  done  ?  And  the  woman  said,  The  serpent  be- 
guiled me,  and  I  did  eat.  Eccl.  vii.  29.  Lo,  this  only  have  I  found, 
that  God  hath  made  man  upright;  but  they  have  sought  out  many 
inventions. 

14.  b  1  John  in.  4.  Whosoever  committeth  sin,  transgresseth  also 
the  law :  for  sin  is  the  transgression  of  the  law. 

15.  c  Gen.  Hi.  6.  (See  in  letter  a)  v.  12.  The  woman  whom 
thou  gavest  to  be  with  me,  she  gave  nve  cf  the  tree,  and  I  did  eat, 

3H 


426  1 he  Shorter  Catechism. 

A.  The   covenant   being   made   with  A<1 
not  only  for  himself,  but  for  his  posterity;    all 
mankind,  descending  from  him  by  ordinary  gene- 
ration, sinned  in  him,  and  fell  with  him  in  his 
first  transs  w.d 

Q^  1  7.  Into  what  estate  did  the  fall  bring  man- 
kind? 

A,  The  fall  brought  mankind  into  an  estate 
of  sin  and  misery ,e 

Q^i8.  IV herein  consists  the  sinfulness  of  that 
estate  wheremtQ  man  jell? 

A.  The  sinfulness  of  that  estate  whereinto  man 
fell,  consists  in  the  guilt  of  Adam's  first  sin,  the 
want  of  original  righteousness,  and  the  corrup- 
tion of  his  whole  nature,  which  is  commonly  cal- 
led original  sin;  together  with  all  actual  trans- 
gressions which  proceed  from  \lf 

16.  J  Gen.  ii.  16.    And  the  Lord  God  commanded   the  man, 
,  Of  every  tree  of  the  garden  thou  mayest  freely  eat:  v.  17. 

But  of  the  tree  of  the  knowledge  of  good  and  evil,  thou  shall  not 
eat  of  it:  for  in  the  day  that  thou  eatest  thereof,  thou  shalt  surely 
die.  Rom.  v.  12.  Wherefore,  as  by  one  man  sin  entered  into  the 
.  ind  death  by  sin;  and  so  death  passed  upon  all  men,  for  that 
all  have  sinned.  1  Cor.  xv.  21.  For  since  bv  man  came  death,  by 
in  in  came  also  the  resurrection  of  the  dead.  v.  22.  For  as  in  Adam 
all  die,  even  so  in  Christ  shall  all  be  made  alive. 

17.  c  Rom.  v.  12.  Wherefore,  as  by  one  man  sin  entered  into 
rid,  and  death  by  sin;  and  so  death  passed  upon  all  men,  for 

that  all  have  sinned. 

i!i.  /  -"Rom.  v.  12.  Wherefore,  as  by  one  man  sin  entered  into 
the  world,  and  death  by  si;  d  upon  all  m< . 

that  all  have  sinned.  r  as  by  one  man's  disobedience  many 

inn  is:  so  by  the  obedience  of  one  shall  many  be  made 
1  Rom.  v.Yrqm  ver.  10  ton.    Eph.  ii.  1.   Andvoi 

ed  who  were  dead  in  trespasses  and  sins;   v.  2.  Wherein, 
i:t  time  pa  t,  ye  walked  according  to  the  course  of  this  world,  accord- 
pnnce  of  the  power  of  the  air,  the  spirit  that  now  work- 
eth  in  the  children  ol  disobedience,     v.  3.  Among  whom  also  we 
I  our  conversation  in  times  past,  in  the  lusts  of  our  flesh,  ful- 
fil  h,  and  of  the  mind;  and  were  by  na  ■ 
ie  children  of  wrath,  even  as  others.    James  i.  14.  But  every 


¥ 'he  Shorter  Catechism.  42  y 

Q.  1 9.  What  is  the  misery  of  that  estate  where- 
in to  man  fell  f 

A.  All  mankind,  by  their  fall,  lost  com- 
munion with  God,o-  are  under  his  wrath  and 
curse,/6  and  so  made  liable  to  all  the  miseries  in 
this  life,  to  death  itself,  and  to  .the  .pains  of  hell 
for  ever./ 

Q.  20.  Did  God  leave  all  mankind  to  perish  ill 
the  estate  of  sin  and  misery? 

A.  God  having  out  of  his  mere  good  pleasure, 
from  all  eternity,  elected  some  to  everlasting  life,£ 

man  is  tempted,  when  he  is  drawn  away, of  his  own  lust,  and  en- 
ticed, v.  15.  Then,  when  lust  hath  conceived,  it  bringeth  forth  sin  : 
£nd  sin,  when  it  is  finished,  bringeth  forth  death.  Mat.  xv.  19.  For 
out  of  the  heart  proceed  evil  thoughts,  murders,  adulteries,  fornica- 
tion, thefts,  false  witness,  blasphemies. 

19.  g  Gen.  iii.  8.  And  they  heard  the  voice  of  the  Lord  God 
walking  in  the  garden  in  the  cool  of  the  day:  and  Adam  and  his 
wife  hid  themselves  from  the  presence  of  the  Lord  God,  amongst 
the  trees  of  the  garden,  v.  10.  And  he  said,  I  heard  thy  voice  in 
the  garden;  and  J  was  afraid,  because  I  was  naked;  and  I  hid  my- 
self, v.  34.  So  he  drove  out  the  man :  and  he  placed  at  the  east  of 
the  garden  of  Eden,  eherubims,  and  a  flaming  swerd,  which  turn- 
ed every  way,  to  keep  the  way  of  the  tree  ot  life. 
•  //  Eph.  ii. 3.  Wherein,  in  time  past,  ye  walked  according  to  the 
course  of. this  world,  according  to  the  prince  of  the  power  of  the  air, 
the  spirit  that  now  worketh  in  the  children  of  disobedience,  v.  3. 
Among  whom  also  we  all  had  our  conversation  in  times  past,  in  the 
lusts  of  our  flesh,  fulfilling  the  desires  of  the  flesh,  and  ot  the  mind; 
and  were  by  nature  the  children  of  wrath,  pven  as  others.  Gal.  iii. 
10.  For  as  many  as  are  of  the  works  of  the-law,  are  under  the  curse: 
for  it  is  written,  Cursed  is  every  one  that  continueth  not  in  all 
things  which  are  written  in  the  book  of  the  law  to  do- them. 
■  i  Lam.  iii.  59.  Wherefore  dotb  a  living  man  complain,  a  man  for 
the  punishment  of  his  sins.  Rom.  vi.  23.  For  the  wages  of  sin  is 
death;  but  the  gift  of  God  is  eternal  life,  through  Jesus  Christ  our 
Lord.  Mat.  xxv.  41.  Then  shall  he  s;iy  also  unto  them  on  the  left 
hand,  Depart  from  me,  ye  cursed,  into  everlasting  fire,,  prepared 
for  the  devil  and  his  angels,  v.  46.  And  these  shall  go  away  into 
everlasting  punishment:   but  the  righteous  into  life  eternal. 

30.  k  Eph.  i.  4.  According  as  he  hath  chosen  us  in  him,  before 
the  foundation  or  the  world,  that  we  should  be  holy,  and  without 
blame  before  him  in  love. 


428  7* he  Shorter  Catechism. 

did  enter  into  a  covenant  of  grace,  to  deliver 
them  out  of  the  estate  of  sin  and  misery,  and  to 
bring  them  into  an  estate  of  salvation  by  a  Re- 
deemer./ 

Q.   21.  Who  is  the  Redeemer  of  God's  clecl? 

A.  The  only  Redeemer  of  God's  ele6i:,  is  the 
Lord  Jesus  Christ, m  who,  being  the  eternal  Son 
of  God,  became  inan,«  and  so  was,  and  continu- 
eth  to  be  God  and  man,  in  two  distinct  natures, 
and  one  person  for  ever.o 

Q.  22.  How  did  Christy  being  the  Son  of  God, 
become  man? 

A.  Christ,  the  Son  of  God,  became  man,  by 

/  Rom.  iii.  20.  Therefore  by  the  deeds  of  the  law  there  shall  no 
flesh  be  justified  in  his  sight :  tor  bv  the  law  is  the  knowledge  of  sin. 
v.  21.  But  now  the  righteousness  of  God  without  the  law  is  mani- 
fested, being  witnessed  by  the  law  and  the  prophets;  v.  22.  Even 
the  righteousness  of  God  which  is  by  faith  of  Jesus  Christ  unto  all, 
and  upon  all  them  that  believe;  for  there  is  no  difference.  Gal.  iii. 
ai.  Is  the  law  then  against  the  promises  of  God?  God  forbid:  for 
if  there  had  been  a  law  given  which  could  have  given  life,  verily 
righteousness  should  have  been  by  the  law.  v.  22.  But  the  scripture 
hath  concluded  all  under  sin,  that  the  promise  by  faith  of  Jesus 
Christ  might  be  given  to  them  that  believe. 

21.  m  1  Tim.  ii.  5.  For  there  is  one  God,  and  one  Mediator  be- 
tween God  and  man,  the  man  Christ  Jesus;  v.  6.  Who  gave  him- 
self a  ransom  for  all,  to  be  testified  in  due  time. 

n  John  i.  14.  And  the  word  was  made  flesh,  and  dwelt  among  us 
(:\nd  we  beheld  his  glory,  the  glory  as  of  the  only  begotten  of  the 
Father)  full  of  grace  and  truth.  Gal.  iv.  4.  But  when  the  fulness 
of  the  time  was  come,  God  sent  iorth  his  Son  made  of  a  woman, 
made  under  the  law. 

0  Rom.  ix.  5.  Whose  are  the  fathers,  and  of  whom,  as  concerning 
the  flesh,  Christ  came,  who  is  over  all,  God  blessed  for  ever.  Amen. 
Luke  i.  35.  And  the  angel  answered  and  slid  unto  her,  The  Holy 
Ghost  shall  come  upon  thee,  and  the  power  of  the  Highest  shall 
overshadow  thee:  therefore  also  that  holy  thing  which  shall  be  born 
of  thee,  shall  be  called  the  Son  of  God.  Col.  ii.  9.  For  in  him 
dwelleth  all  the  fulness  of  the  Godhead  bodily.  Heb.  vii.  24.  But 
this  man,  because  he  continued)  ever,  hath  an  unchangeable  priest- 
hood, v.  25.  Wherefore  he  is  able  also  to  save  them  to  the  u;m- 
most,  that  come  uiuo  God  by  him,  seein.;  lit  ever  livetii  to  make 
intercession  for  them. 


tfhe  Shorter  Catechism.  429 

taking  to  himself  a  true  body,/)  and  a  reasona- 
ble soul,y  being  conceived  by  the  power  of  the 
Holy  Ghost,  in  the  womb  of  the  virgin  Mary, 
and  born  of  her,r  yet  without  sin.j 

(3^23.  What  offices  doth  Christ  execute  as  our 
Redeemer  f 

A.  Christ,  as  our  Redeemer,  executeth  the 
offices  of  a  Prophet,  of  a  Priest,  and  of  a  King, 
both  in  his  estate  of  humiliation  and  exaltation./ 

22.  p  Heb.  ii.  14.  Forasmuch,  then,  as  the  children  are  partakers 
of  flesh  and  blood,  he  also  himself  likewise  took  part  of  the  same: 
that  through  death  he  might  destroy  him  that  had  the  power  of  death, 
that  is,  the  devil,  v.  16.  For  verily  he  took  not  on  him  the  nature 
of  angels;  but  he  took  on  him  the  seed  of  Abraham.  Heb.  x.  5. 
Wherefore  when  he  cometh  into  the  world,  he  saith,  Sacrifice  and 
offering  thou  wonkiest  not,  but  a  body  hast  thou  prepared  me. 

q  Mat.  xxvi.  38.  Then  saith  he  unto  them,  My  soul  is  exceeding 
sorrowful,  even  unto  death:  tarry  ye  here,  and  watch  with  me. 

r  Luke  i.  27.  To  a  virgin  espoused  to  a  man  whose  name  was  Jo- 
seph, of  the  house  of  David;  and  the  virgin's  name  was  Mary.  v. 
31.  And  behold,  thou  shalt  conceive  in  thy  womb,  and  bring  forth 
a  son,  and  shall  call  his  name  Jesus,  v.  35.  And  the  angel  answer- 
ed and  said  unto  her,  The  Holy  Ghost  shall  come  upon  thee,  and 
the  power  of  the  Highest  shall  overshadow  thee:  therefore  also  that 
holy  thing  which  shall  be  born  of  thee,  shall  be  called  the  Son  of 
God.  v.  42.  And  she  spake  out  with  a  loud  voice,  and  said,  Blessed 
art  thou  among  women,  and  blessed  is  the  fruit  of  thy  womb.  Gal. 
iv.  4.  (See  in  the  preceding  question,  letter  «.) 

s  Heb.  iv.  15.  For  we  have  not  an  high  priest  which  cannot  be 
touched  with  the  feeling  of  our  infirmities;  but  was  in  all  points 
tempted  like  as  we  are,  yet  without  sin.  Heb.  vii.  26.  For  such  an 
high  priest  became  us,  who  is  holy,  harmless,  undefiied,  separate 
from  sinners,  and  made  higher  than  the  heavens. 

23.  /  A6ts  iii.  21.  Whom  the  heaven  must  receive,  until  the  times 
of  restitution  of  all  things,  which  God  hath  spoken  by  the  mouth  of 
all  his  holy  prophets,  since  the  world  began,  v.  22.  For  Moses 
truly  said  unto  the  fathers,  A  prophet  shall  the  Lord  your  God  raise 
up  unto  you,  of  your  brethren,  like  unto  me;  him  shall  ye  hear  in 
all  things  whatsoever  he  shall  say  unto  you.  Heb.  xii.  25.  See  that 
ye  refuse  not  him  that  speaketh:  For  if  they  escaped  not  who  refused 
him  that  spake  on  earth,  much  more  shall  not  we  escape,  if  we  turn 
away  from  him  that  speaketh  from  heaven.  Compared  with  2  Cor. 
xiii.  3.  Since  ye  seek  a  proof  of  Christ  speaking  in  me,  which  to 
you-ward  is  not  weak,  but  is  mighty  in  you.     Heb.  v.  5.  So  also, 


4  y.j  The  Shorter  Catechism, 

Q^  24.  How  doth  Christ  execute  the  offtc  of  4 
prophet  * 

A.  Christ  execulteth  the  office  of  a  Prophet,  in 
sealing  to  us,  by  his  word  and  Spirit,  the  will 
dvation.^ 

Christ  glorified  not  himself,  to  be  made  an  high  priest;  but  he  that 
;  unto  him,  Thou  art  my  Son,  to-day  have  1  begotten  thee.  v.  6. 
lie  saith  also  in  another  place,  Thou  art  a  priest  for  ever  after  the 
order  of  Melchisedec.     v.j.  Who  in  the  days  of  his  flesh,  when  he 
i   offered  up   prayers  and  supplications,  with  strong  crying  and 
tears,  unto  him  that  was  able  to  save  him  from  death,  and  was  heard, 
in  that  he  feared.     Heb.  v'i.r.-.  Wheftefore  lie  is  able  also  to  save  them 
to  the  uttermost,  that  come  unto  God  by  him,  seeing  he  ever  livetW 
to  make  intercession  for  them.     Paal.  ii.  6.  Yet  have  I  set  my  king 
upon  my  holy  hill  ol  Zion.     I-?.,  ix.  6.  For  unto  us  a  chiid  is  born, 
unto  us  a  Son  is  given,  and  the  government  shall  be  upon  lib  shoul- 
der:  and   his  name  shall  be  called  Wonderful,   Counsellor,   The 
mighty  God,  the  everlasting  Father,  The  Prince  of  Peace,     v.  7. 
Of  the  increase  of  his  government  and  peace  there  shall  be  no  end, 
upon  the  throne  of  David,  and  upon  hfe  kingdom,  to  order  it,  and 
to  establish  it  with  judgment  and  with  justice,  from  henceforth  even 
Jor  ever :  the  zeal  of  the  Lord  of  hosts  will  perform  this.  Mat.  xxi.  5. 
Tell  ye  the  daughter  of  Zion,  Behold,  thy  king  cometh  unto  thee, 
meek,  and  sitting  upon  ah  ass,  and  a  colt,  the  fole  of  an  ass.     Psal. 
ii.  8.  Ask  of  me,  and  I  shall  give  thee  the  Heathen  for  thine  inhe- 
ritance, and  the  uttermost  parts  of  the  earth  for  thy  possession,  v.  9. 
Thou  shalt  break  them  with  a  rod  of  iron,  thou  shalt  dash  them  in 
nieces  like  a  potter's  vessel,     v.  10.  Be  wise  now,  therefore,  O  ye 
instructed,  ye  judg<  s  ol  the  earth,     v.  1 1.  Serve  the  Lord 
.  and  rejoice  with  tremblii 
p  John  i.  iS.  No  man  hath  seen  God  at  any  time  ;  the  onlv 
begotten  Son,  which  is  in  the  bosom  of  the  Father,  he  hath  dec) 

1  I'tt.i.  to.  Ol  which  salvation  the  prophets  have  inquired, 
earched  diligently,  who  prophesied  of  the  grace  that  should 
come  unto  j  ou  :  v.  11.  S<  ar<  hing  what,  or  what  manner  of  time  the 
Christ  which  w;  n  did  signify,  when  it  testified  be- 

fore  hand  the  !  -     rist,  and  the  glory  that  should  follow. 

v.  12.   Unto  whom  it  wat  revealed,  that  not  unto  tin  but 

unto  us  they  did  minister  the  things  which  are  now  Reported  unto 

pel  unto  you,  with  the  Holy 

G  m  down  from  heaven;  which  things  the  an  .  to 

look  into.    John  w.  t  :;    Henceforth  1  call  you  not  :  for 

1  not  what  his  lord  doth:   hut  I  ha  1  .>u 

1  is;  for  all  things  that  I  have  I  ly  Father,  1  have  m 

known  unto  you.   John  xx.  31.  But  these  are  written,  that  ye  mi 

:,  the  Son  of  God,  and  tl  lag 

}e  might  have  lilt  through  his  name. 


tffie  Shorter  Catechism.  43 1 

Q.  2 5 .  How  doth  Christ  execute  the  office  of  a 
Priest  ¥ 

A.  Christ  executeth  the  office  of  a  Priest,  in 
his  once  offering  up  of  himself  a  sacrifice,  to  sa- 
tisfy divine  justice,-^  and  reconcile  us  to  God,x 
and  in  making  continual  intercession  for  us.y 

Q^2  6.  How  doth  Christ  execute  the  office  of  a 
King? 

A.  Christ  executeth  the  office  of  a  Kins,  in 
subduing  us  to  himself,s  in  rulin?-^  and  defend- 
ing  us,£  and  in  restraining  and  conquering  all  his 
and  our  enemies. c 

Q^JJ  7 .  Wherein  did  Christ's  humiliation  consist? 

2$.  10  Heb.  ix.  14.  How  much  more  shall  the  blood  of  Christ, 
who  through  the  eternal  Spirit  offered  himself  without  spot  to  God, 
purge  your  conscience  from  dead  works  to  serve  the  living  God  ? 
y.  28.  So  Christ  was  once  offered  to  bear  the  sins  of  many  ;  and 
unto  them  that  look  for  him  shall  he  appear  the  second  time,  without 
sin,  unto  salvation. 

x  Heb.  ii.  17.  Wherefore  in  all  things  it  behoved  him  to  be  made 
like  unto  his  brethren  ;  that  he  might  be  a  merciful  and  faithful  high 
priest,  in  things  pertaining  to  God,  to  make  reconciliation  for  the 
sins  of  the  people. 

y  Heb.  vii.  24.  But  this  man,  because  he  continueth  ever,  hath 
an  unchangeable  priesthood,  v.  25.  Wherefore  he  is  able  also  to 
save  them  to  the  uttermost,  that  come  unto  God  by  him,  seeing  he 
ever  liveth  to  make  intercession  for  them. 

26.  %  Acts  xv.  14.  Simeon  hath  declared  how  God  at  the  first  did 
visit  the  Gentiles,  to  take  out  of  them  a  people  for  his  name.  v.  15. 
And  to  this  agree  the  words  of  the  prophet ;  as  it  is  written,  v.  16. 
After  this  I  will  return,  and  will  build  again  the  tabernacle  of  Da- 
vid, which  is  fallen  down:  and  I  will  build  again  the  ruins  thereof, 
and  I  will  set  it  up. 

a  Isa.  xxxiii.  22.  For  the  Lord  is  our  Judge,  the  Lord  is  our 
Lawgiver,  the  Lord  is  our  King,  he  will  save  us. 

b  Isa.  xxxii.  1.  Behold,  a  King  shall  reign  in  righteousness,  and 
princes  shall  rule  in  judgment,  v.  2.  And  a  man  shall  be  as  an 
hiding-place  from  the  wind,  and  a  covert  from  the  tempest:  as  rivers 
of  water  in  a  dry  place,  as  the  shadow  of  a  great  rock  in  a  weary 
land. 

c  1  Cor.  xv.  2  v  For  he  must  reign,  till  he  hath  put  all  enemies 
wider  his  feet.     Fsal.  ex.  throughout. 


43-  The  Shorter  Catechism. 

A.  Christ's  humiliation  consisted  in  his  being 
born,  and  that  in  a  low  condition,^  made  under 
the  la\v,r  undergoing  the  miseries  of  this  life,/* 
the  wrath  of  God,g  and  the  cursed  death  of  the 
cross  \h  in  being  buried,?  and  continuing:  under 
the  power  of  death  for  a  time./' 

Q.    28.   //  'herein  consist eth  Christ's  exaltation  f 

27.  </Luke  ii.  7.  And  she  brought  forth  her  first-born  son,  and 
wrapped  him  in  swaddling  clothes,  and  laid  him  in  a  manger,  be- 
cause there  was  no  room  for  them  in  the  inn. 

e  Gal.  iv.  4.  But  when  the  fulness  of  the  time  was  come,  God 
sent  fortli  his  Son  made  of  a  woman,  made  under  the  law. 

f  Heb.  xii.  2.  Looking  unto  Jesus  the  author  and  finisher  of  our 
faith;  who,  for  the  joy  that  was  set  before  him,  endured  the  cross, 
despising  the  shame,  and  is  set  down  at  the  right  hand  of  the  throne 
of  God.  v.  3.  For  consider  him  that  endured  such  contradiction  of 
sinners  against  himself,  lest  ye  be  wearied  and  faint  in  vour  minds. 
Isa.  liii.  2.  For  he  shall  grow  up  before  him  as  a  tender  plant,  and  as 
a  root  out  of  a  dry  ground;  he  hath  no  form  nor  comeliness:  and 
when  we  shall  see  him,  there  is  no  beauty  that  we.  should  desire  him. 
v.  3.  He  is  despised  and  rejected  of  men;  a  man  of  sorrows,  and  ac- 
quainted with  grief:  and  we  hid  as  it  were  our  faces  from  him;  he 
was  despised,  and  we  esteemed  him  not. 

g  Lukexxii.44.  And  being  in  an  agony,  he  prayed  more  ear- 
nestlv  :  and  his  sweat  was  as  it  were  great  drops  of  blood  falling  down 
to  the  ground.  Mat.  xxvii.  46.  And  about  the  ninth  hour  JesiH 
cried  with  a  loud  voice,  saying,  Eli,  Eli,  lama  sabachthani?  that  is 
to  say,  My  God,  my  God,  why  hast  thou  forsaken  me? 

//  Phil.  ii.  8.  And  being  found  in  fashion  as  a  man,  he  humbled 
himself,  and  became  obedient  unto  death,  even  the  death  of  the 
cross. 

i  1  Cor.  xv.  3.  For  I  delivered  unto  you  first  of  all,  that  which  I 
also  received,  how  that  Christ  died  for  our  sins,  according  to  the 
scriptures :  v.  4.  And  that  he  was  buried,  and  that  he  rose  again  the 
third  day  according  to  the  scriptures. 

k  Acts  ii.  24.  Wnom  God  hath  raised  up,  having  loosed  the  chains 
of  death  :  because  it  was  not  possible  that  he  should  be  hold  en  of  it. 
v.  25.  For  David  speaketb  concerning  him,  I  foresaw  the  Lord  al- 
ways before  my  face:  for  he  is  on  my  right  hand,  that  I  should  not 
In  moved,  v.  26.  Therefore  did  my  heart  rejoice,  and  my  tongue 
was  glad  :  moreover  also,  my  flesh  shall  rest  in  hope.  v.  27.  iie- 
thou  wilt  not  leave  mv  soul  in  hell,  neither  wilt  thou  surfer 
thine  Holy  One  to  see  corruption,  v.  31.  He  seeing  this  before, 
apak<  urn  &km  o\  Christ,  that  his  soul  was  not  left  in  hell, 

neither  his  flesh  did  see  corruption. 


I'he  Shorter  Catechism.  4.33 

A.  Christ's  exaltation  consisteth  in  his  rising 
again  from  the  dead  on  the  third  day,/  in  ascend- 
ing up  into  heaven, m  in  sitting  at  the  right  hand 
of  God  the  Father,^  and  in  coming  to  judge 
the  world  at  the  last  day.o 

Q^2Q.  How  are  we  made  partakers  of  the  re- 
demption purchased  by  Christ  f 

A.  We  are  made  partakers  of  the  redemption 
purchased  by  Christ,  by  the  effectual  application 
of  it  to  us/>  by  his  holy  Spirit.^ 

Q.  30.  How  doth  the  Spirit  apply  to  us  the  re- 
demption purchased  by  Christ  f 

A.  The  Spirit  applieth  to  us  the  redemption 
purchased  by  Christ,  by  working  faith  in  us,r 

28.  /  1  Cor.  xv.  4.  And  that  he  was  buried,  and  that  he  rose 
again  the  third  day  according  to  the  scriptures. 

m  Mark  xvi.  19.  So  then  after  the  Lord  had  spoken  unto  them, 
he  was  received  up  into  heaven,  and  sat  on  the  right  hand  of  God. 

n  Eph.  i.  20.  Which  he  wrought  in  Christ,  when  he  raised  him 
from  the  dead,  and  set  him  at  his  own  right  hand  in  the  heavenly- 
places. 

0  Acts  i.  11.  Which  also  said,  Ye  men  of  Galilee,  why  stand  ye 
gazing  up  into  heaven  ?  this  same  Jesus  which  is  taken  up  from  you 
into  heaven,  shall  so  come  in  like  manner  as  ye  have  seen  him  go 
into  heaven.  Acts  xvii.  31.  Because  he  hath  appointed  a  day,  in  the 
which  he  will  judge  the  world  in  righteousness,  by  that  man  whom 
he  hath  ordained  ;  whereof  he  hath  given  assurance  unto  all  men,  in 
that  he  hath  raised  him  from  the  dead. 

29.  [1  John  i.  11.  He  came  unto  his  own,  and  his  own  received 
him  not.  v.  12.  But  as  many  as  received  him,  to  them  gave  he 
power  to  become  the  sons  of  God,  even  to  them  that  believe  on  his 
name. 

q  Tit.  iii.  5.  Not  by  works  of  righteousness  which  we  have  done, 
but  according  to  his  mercy  he  saved  us  by  the  washing  of  regenera- 
tion, and  renewing  of  the  Holy  Ghost ;  v.  6.  Which  he  shed  on 
us  abundantly,  through  Jesus  Christ  our  Saviour. 

30.  r  Eph.  i.  13.  In  whom  ye  also  trusted  after  that  ye  heard  the 
word  of  truth,  the  gospel  of  your  salvation  :  in  whom  also  after  that 
ye  believed,  ye  were  sealed  with  that  holy  Spirit  of  promise,  v.  11. 
Which  is  the  earnest  of  our  inheritance,  until  the  redemption  of  the 
purchased  possession,  unto  the  praise  of  his  glory.  John  vi.  37.  All 
that  the  Father  giveth  me,  shall  come  to  me ;  and  him  that  cometh 

3l 


434  7w  Shorter  Catechism. 

and  thereby  uniting  us  to  Christ,  in  our  effecl' 
call  id  er.  j 

o 

Q.   31.   //7w/  />  effectual  calling  f 
A.  Effectual  calling  is  the  work  of  God's  Spirit/ 
whereby,  convincing  us  of  our  sin  and  misery,** 

enlightening  our  minds  in  the  knowledge  *  of 
Christ,^;  and  renewing  our  wills,*  he  doth  per- 
suade and  enable  us  to  embrace  Jesus  Christ, 
freely  offered  to  us  in  the  gospel.^ 

to  me,  I  will  in  no  wise  cast  out.  v.  39.  And  this  is  the  Father's 
-will  u  hich  hath  sent  me,  that  or  all  which  he  hath  given  me,  I  should 
lose  nothing,  but  should  raise  it  up  again  at  the  last  day.  Eph-.  ii.  8. 
For  by  grace  are  ye  saved,  through  faith  ;  and  that  not  of  yourselves ; 
it  is  the  gilt  of  God. 

s  Eph.  ri.  17.  That  Christ  may  dwell  in  your  hearts  by  faith: 
that  ye  being  rooted  and  grounded  in  love.  1  Cor.  i.  9.  God  is 
faithful,  by  whom  ye  were  culled  unto  the  fellowship  of  his  Son,  Je- 
sus Christ  our  Lord. 

3  1.  /  2  Tim.  i.  ).  Who  hath  saved  us,  and  called  us  with  an  holy 
calling,  not  according  to  our  works,  but  according  to  his  own  pur- 
pose and  grace  which  was  given  us  in  Christ  Jesus,  before  the  world 
began,  a  Thes.  ii.  13.  Uut  we  are  bound  to  give  thanks  always  to 
God  lor  you,  brethren,  beloved  of  the  Lord,  because  God  hath  from 
the  beginning  chosen  you  to  salvation,  through  sanctirkation  of  the 
Spirit,  and  belief  of  the  truth:  v.  14.  Whereunto  he  called  you  by 
our  gospel,  'otlu-  obtaining  of  the  glory  of  our  Lord  Jesus  Christ. 

v  A&sii.  57.  Now  when  they  heard  this,  they  were  pricked  in 
their  heart,  and  said  unto  Peter,  and  to  the  rest  of  the  apostles,  Men 
and  brethren,  what  shall  we  do  ? 

w  A6ts  xxvi.  iS.  To  open  their  eves,  and  to  turn  them  from 
darkness  to  light,  and  from  the  power  of  Satan  unto  Got),  that  they 
may  receive  forgiveness  of  sins,  and  inheritance  among  them  which 
are  sanctified  by  faith  that  is  in  me. 

x  Ezek.  xxxvi.  26.  A  new  heart  also  will  I  give  you,  and  a  new 
spirit  will  1  [Hit  within  vou,  and  I  will  take  away  the  stony  heart  out 
oi  your  flesh,  and  1  will  give  you  an  heart  of  flesh,  v.  27.  And  I 
will  1  ut  my  Spirit  within  you,  anil  cause  you  to  walk  in  my  statutes, 
and  \  e  shall  keep  my  judgments,  and  do  them. 

y  John  vi  44.  No  man  can  come  to  me,  except  the  Father  which 
hath  ^ent  me,  draw  him  :  and  I  will  raise  him  up  at  the  last  day.  v. 
4v  It  is  written  in  the  prophets,  And  they  shall  be  all  taught  oi  God. 
Ever)  man  therefore  that  hath  heard,  ana  huh  learned  oi  the  father, 
<  omi  tii  umo  me.  Phil.  ii.  1 3.  For  it  is  God  which  worketh  in  yon- 
to  will  and  to  do;  oi  bis  good  pleasure, 


I* he  Shorter  Catechism.  43^ 

•Q.  32.  What  benefits  do  they  that  are  effectually 
called  partake  of  in  this  life? 

A.  They  that  are  effectually  called  do,  in  this 
life,  partake  of  justification, 2  adoption,^  sancli- 
fication,  and  the  several  benefits  which,  in  this 
life,  do  either  accompany  or  flow  from  them.^ 

.Q.   33.   What  is  justification? 

A.  Justification  is  an  act  of  God's  free  grace, 
.wherein  he  pardoneth  all  our  sins,<f  and  accept- 
•eth  us  as  righteous  in  his  sight,^  only  for  the 
righteousness  of  Christ,  imputed  to  us/'  and  re- 
ceived by  faith  alone^ 

32.  z  Rom.viii.  30.  Moreover,  whom  he  did  predestinate,  them 
he  also  called:  and  whom  he  called,  them  he  also  justified :  and 
whom  he  justified,  them  he  also  glorified. 

a  Eph.  i.  5.  Having  predestinated  us  unto  the  adoption  of  children 
:by  Jesus  Christ  to  himself,  according  to  the  good  pleasure  of  his  will. 

b  1  Cor.  i.  26.  For  ye  see  your  calling,  brethren,  how  that  not 
many  wise  men  after  the  flesh,  not  many  mighty,  not  many  noble 
are  called,  v.  30.  But  of  him  are  ye  in  Christ  Jesus,  who  of  God 
■is  made  unto  us  wisdom,  and  righteousness,  and  sancYification,  and 
■redemption. 

33.  c  Rom.  iii.  24.  Being  justified  freely  by  his  grace,  through  the 
.redemption  that  is  in  Jt^us  Christ:  v.  25.  Whom  God  hath  set 
forth  to  be  a  propitiation,  through  faith  in  his  blood,  to  declare  his 
righteousness  for  the  remission  of  sins  that  arc  past,  through  the  for- 
bearance of  God.  Rom.  iv.  6.  Even  as  David  also  describeth  the 
•blessedness  of  the  man  unto  whom  God  imputeth  righteousness 
-without  works,  v.  '/.  Saying,  Blessed  are  they  whose  iniquities  are 

forgiven,  and  whose  sins  are  covered,  v.  8.  Biessed  is  the  man  to 
whom  the  Lord  will  not  impute  sin. 

d  2  Cor.  v.  19.  To  wit,  that  God  was  in  Christ  reconciling  the 
world  unto  himself,  not  imputing  their  trespasses  unto  them;  and 
hath  committed  unto  us  the  word  of  reconciliation,  v.  21.  For  he 
hath  made  him  to  be  sin  for  us,  who  knew  no  sin ;  that  we  might 
.be  made  the  righteousness  of  God  in  him. 

e  Rom.  v.  1  7.  For  if  by  one  man's  offence,  death  reigned  bv  one  ; 
much  more  they  which  receive  abundance  of  grace,  and  of  the  gift 
of  righteousness,  shall  reign  in  life  by  one,  Jesus  Christ,  v.  18. 
Therefore,  as  by  the  offence  of  one,  judgment  came  upon  all  men  to 
condemnation  :  even  so,  by  the  righteousness  of  one,  the  free  gift 
.came  upon  all  men  unto  justification  of  life.  v.  19.  For  as  by  one 
man's  disobedience  many  were  made  sinners:  so  by  the  obedience 
of  one  shall  many  be  made  righteous. 

f  Gal.  ii.  16.  Knowing  that  a  man  is  not  justified  by  the  works 


43  6  The  Shorter  Catechism. 

0^34-   What  is  adoption? 

A.  Adoption  is  an  a6f.  of  God's  free  grace,^ 
whereby  we  are  received  into  the  number,  and 
have  a  right  to  all  the  privileges,  of  the  sons  of 
God.h 

Q^35.   What  is  sanclification? 

A.  Sanclification  is  the  work  of  God's  free 
grace,/'  whereby  we  are  renewed  in  the  whole 
man,  after  the  image  of  God,/'  and  are  enabled 
more  and  more  to  die  unto  sin,  and  live  unto 
righteousness./ 

Q^  36.  What  are  the  benefits  which  in  this  life 
do  accompany  or  flow  from  justification^  adoption  ^ 
and  sanclification  P 

A.  The  benefits  which  in  this  life  do  accom- 
pany or  flow  from  justification,  adoption,  and 
sanclification,  are,  assurance  of  God's  love,  peace 

of  the  law,  but  by  the  faith  of  Jesus  Christ,  even  we  have  believed 
in  Jesus  Christ ;  that  we  might  be  justified  by  the  faith  of  Christ,  and 
rot  by  the  works  of  the  law  :  for  by  the  works  of  the  law  shall  no 
flesh  be  justified.  Phil.  iii.  9.  And  be  found  in  him,  not  having 
mine  own  righteousness  which  is  of  the  law,  but  that  which  is 
through  the  faith  ol  Christ,  the  righteousness  which  is  of  God  by 
faith. 

34.  £  1  John  iii.  1.  Behold,  what  manner  of  love  the  Father  hath 
bestowed  on  115,  that  we  should  be  called  the  sons  ol  God  :  there- 
fore the  world  knoweth  us  not,  because  it  knew  him  not. 

/;  John  i.  12.  But  as  many  as  received  him,  to  them  gave  he  power 
to  become  the  sous  of  God,  even  to  them  that  believe  on  his  name. 
Rom.  viii.  17.  And  if  children,  then  heirs ;  heirs  of  God,  and  joint 
heirs  with  Christ:  if  ;o  be  that  wc  suffer  with  him,  that  we  may  be 
also  glorified  together. 

35.  i  2  Thes.  ii.  13. — God  hath  from  the  beginning  chosen  you 
to  salvation,  through  sanctiheation  of  the  Spirit,  and  belief  of  the 
truth. 

k  Eph.iv.  23.  And  be  renewed  in  the  spirit  of  your  mind  ;  v.  24. 
And  that  ye  put  on  the-  new  man,  which  after  God  is  created  iii 
righteousness  and  true  holii 

/  Rom.  vi.  4.  Therefore  wc  are  buried  with  him  by  baptism  into 
death:  that  like  as  Christ  was  raised  up  from  the  dead  by  the  glory 
e>f  the  Father,  even  so  we  v.\-.o  should  walk  in  newness  ol  life.  v.  6. 


*fhe  Shorter  Catechism.  437 

of  conscience,^  joy  in  the  Holy  Ghost,?/  increase 
of  <rrace,o  and  perseverance  therein  to  the  end./) 

Q.  "7.  What  benefits  do  believers  receive  from 
Christ  at  death? 

A.  The  souls  of  believers  are,  at  their  death, 
made  perfect  in  holiness, ^  and  do  immediately 
pass  into  glory  ;r  and  their  bodies,  being  still 
united  to  Christy  do  rest  in  their  graves/  till  the 
resurrection.^ 

Knowing  this,  that  our  old  man  is  crucified  with  him,  that  the  body 
of  sin  might  be  destroyed,  that  henceforth  we  should  not  serve  sin. 
36.  ;«°Rom.  v.  1.  Therefore,  being  justified  by  faith,  we  have 
peace  with  God,  through  our  Lord  Jesus  Christ:  v.  2.  By  whom 
also  we  have  access  by  faith  into  this  grace  wherein  we  stand,  and 
rejoice  in  hope  of  the  glory  of  God.  v.  5.  And  hope  maketh  not 
ashamed,  because  the  love  of  God  is  shed  abroad  in  our  hearts,  by 
the  Holy  Ghost  which  is  given  unto  us. 

a  Rom.  xiv.  1  7.  For  the  kingdom  of  God  is  not  meat  and  drink ; 
but  righteousness,  and  peace,  and  joy  in  the  Holy  Ghost. 

0  Prov.  iv.  18.  But  the  path  of  the  just  is  as  the  shining  light,  that 
shineth  more  and  more  unto  the  perfect  day. 

h  1  John  v.  1 3.  These  things  have  I  written  unto  you  that  believe 
on  the  name  of  the  Son  of  God ;  that  ye  may  know  that  ye  have 
eternal  life,  and  that  ye  may  believe  on  the  name  of  the  Son  ol  God. 
1  Peter  i.  5.  Who  are  kept  by  the  power  of  God,  through  faith,  unto 
salvation  ready  to  be  revealed  in  the  last  time. 

37.  a  Heb.  xii.  23.  To  the  general  assembly  and  church  of  the 
first  born,  which  are  written  in  heaven,  and  to  God  the  judge  of  all, 
and  to  the  spirits  of  just  men  made  perfect. 

r  2  Cor.  v.  1.  For  we  know,  that  if  our  earthly  house  of  this 
tabernacle  were  dissolved,  we  have  a  building  of  God,  an  house  not 
made  with  hands,  eternal  in  the  heavens,  v.  6.  Therefore  we  are 
always  confident,  knowing  that  whilst  we  are  at  home  in  the  body, 
we  are  absent  from  the  Lord:  v.  8.  We  are  confident,  I  say,  and 
willing  rather  to  be  absent  from  the  body,  and  to  be  present  with 
the  Lord.  Phil.  i.  23.  For  I  am  in  a  strait  betwixt  two,  having  a 
desire  to  depart,  and  to  be  with  Christ ;  which  is  far  better.  Luke 
xxiii.  43.  And  Jesus  said  unto  him.  Verily  I  say  unto  thee,  To-day 
shalt  thou  be  with  me  in  paradise. 

s  1  Thes.  iv.  14.  For  if  we  believe  that  Jesus  died,  and  rose  again; 
even  so,  them  also  which  sleep  in  Jesus  will  God  bring  with  uim. 

/  Isa.  lvii.2.  He  shall  enter  into  peace;  they  shall  rest  in  their 
beds;  each  one  walking  in  his  uprightness. 

v  Job  xix.  26.    And  though,  after  my  skin,  worms  destroy  this 


43  8  ^he  Shorter  Catechism, 

Q^^S.  What  benefits  do  believers  receive  from 
Christ  at  the  resurrection? 

A.  At  the  resurrection,  believers  being  raised 
up  in  glory %w  shall  be  openly  acknowledged  and 
acquitted  in  the  day  of  judgment, x  and  made 
perfectly  blessed  in  the  lull  enjoying  of  God^y  to 
all  eternity,  z 

Q^  39.  What  is  the  duty  vj hie h  God  require th 
of  man  ? 

A.  The  duty  which  God  requireth  of  man,  is 
obedience  to  his  revealed  will.a 

Q.  40.  What  did  God  at  first  reveal  to  man  for 
the  rule  cf  his  obedience? 

A.  The  rule  which  God  at  first  revealed  to  man 
for  his  obedience,   w  as  the  moral  kwv.b 

body,  yet  in  my  flesh  shall  I  see  God ;  v.  27.  Whom  I  shall  see  for 
myself,  and  mine  eyes  shall  behold,  and  not  another;  though  my 
reins  be  consumed  within  me. 

38.  w  1  Cor.  xv.  43.  It  is  sown  in  dishonour,  it  is  raised  in  glory; 
it  is  sown  in  weakness,  it  is  raised  in  power. 

x  Mat.  xxv.  23.  His  lord  said  unto  him,  Well  done,  good  and 
faithful  servant:  thou  hast  been  faithful  over  a  few  things,  I  will 
make  thee  ruler  over  many  things:  enter  thou  into  the  joy  of  thy 
lord.  Mat.  x.  32.  Whosoever,  therefore,  shall  confess  me  before  men, 
him  will  1  confess  also  before  my  Father  which  is  in  heaven. 

fohn  in.  2.  Beloved,  now  are  we  the  sons  of  God,  and  it  doth 
1  appear  what  we  shall  be:  but  we  know,  that  when  he  shall 
appear,  we  shall  be  like  him;  for  we  shall  see  him  as  he  is.  1  Cor. 
xiii.  12.  For  now  we  see  through  a  glass,  darkly;  but  then  face  to 
face :  now  1  know  in  part;  but  then  shall  I  know  even  as  also  I  am 
known. 

z  1  Thes.  iv.  17.  Then  we  which  are  alive  and  remain,  shall  be 
caught  up  together  with  them  ill  the  clouds,  to  meet  the  Lord  in  the 
air:  and  so  shall  we  ever  be  with  the  Lord.  v.  18.  Wherefore 
comfort  one  another  with  these  words. 

31;.  a  Mic.  vi.  8.  He  hath  shewed  thee,  O  man,  what  is  good; 
and  what  doth  the  Lord  require  of  thee,  but  to  do  justly,  and  to 
hive  mercy,  and  to  walk  humbly  with  thy  God?  1  Sam.  xv.  22. 
And  Samuel  said,  Hath  the  Lord  as  great  delight  in  burnt-offerings 
and  sacrifices,  as  in  obeying  the  voice  ol  the  Lord?  behold,  to  obey 
is  better  than  sacrifice;  and  to  hearken,  than  the  fat  of  rams. 

40.  b  Rum.  ii.  14.  For  when  the  Gentiles  which,  have  not- the 


T'he  Shorter  Catechism.  4  ?& 

Q.  41.  Wherein  is  the  moral  law  summarily 
comprehended? 

A.  The  moral  law  is  summarily  comprehend- 
ed in  the  ten  commandments. c 

Q.  42.  What  is  the  sum  of  the  ten  commandments? 

A.  The  sum  of  the  ten  commandments  is,  To 
love  the  Lord  our  God  with  all  our  heart,  with 
all  our  soul,  with  all  our  strength,  and  with  all 
our  mind ;  and  our  neighbour  as  ourselves.;/ 

Q^  43.  What  is  the  preface  to  the  ten  command- 
ments? 

A.  The  preface  to  the  ten  commandments  is 
in  these  words,  /  am  the  Lord  thy  God,  which 
have  brought  thee  out  of  the  land  of  Egypt,  out  of 
the  house  of  bondage. e 

Q^  44.  What  doth  the  preface  to  the  ten  com- 
mandments teach  us  ? 

A.  The  preface  to  the  ten  commandments 
teacheth  us,  That  because  God  is  the  Lord,  and 
our  God,  and  Redeemer,  therefore  we  are  bound 
to  keep  all  his  commandments/' 

law,  do  by  nature  the  things  contained  in  the  law,  these,  having  not 
the  law,  are  a  law  unto  themselves:  v.  15.  Which  shew  the  work  of 
the  law  written  in  their  hearts,  their  conscience  also  bearing  witness, 
and  their  thoughts  the  mean  while  accusing,  or  else  excusing,  one  ano- 
ther. Rom.  x.  5..  For  Moses  describeth  the  righteousness  which  is  of 
the  law,  that  the  man  which  doth  those  things,  shall  live  by  them. 

41.  e  Deut.  x.  4.  And  he  wrote  on  the  tables,  according  to  the 
first  writing,  the  ten  commandments,  which  the  Lord  spake  unto 
you  in  the  mount,  out  of  the  midst  of  the  fire,  in  the  day  of  the 
assembly:  and  the  Lord  gave  them  unto  me. 

42.  d  Mat.  xxii.  37.  Jesus  said  unto  him,  Thou  shalt  love  the 
Lord  thy  God  with  all  thy  heart,  and  with  all  thy  soul,  and  with, 
all  thy  mind.  v.  38.  This  is  the  first  and  great  commandment,  v. 
39.  And  the  second  is  like  unto  it,  Thou  shalt  love  thy  neighbour 
as  thyself,  v.  40.  On  these  two  commandments  hang  all  the  law 
and  the  prophets. 

43.  e  Exod.  xx.  2. 

44<  /  Luke  i.  74.  That  he  would  grant  unto  us,  that  we,  being 


44^>  +ht  Shorter  Catechism. 

Q^  45.   Which  is  the  first  commandment  t 

A.  The  first  commandment  is,  Thou  shah 
have  no  other  gods  before  me.g 

Q^  46.  //  hat  is  required  in  the  first  command- 
ment ? 

A.  The  first  commandment  requireth  us  to 
know  and  acknowledge  God  to  be  the  only  true 
God,  and  our  God  \h  and  to  worship  and  glorify 
him  accordingly./ 

Q.  47.  What  is  forbidden  in  the  first  command- 
ment ? 

A.  The  first  commandment  forbiddeth  the  de- 
nying,/: or  not  worshipping  and  glorifying  the 


delivered  out  of  the  hands  of  our  enemies,  might  serve  him  without 
fear,  v.  75.  In  holiness  and  righteousness  before  him,  all  the  days 
of  our  life.  1  Peter  i.  15.  But  as  he  which  hath  called  you  is  holy, 
so  be  ve  holy  in  all  manner  of  conversation;  v.  16.  Because  it  is 
written,  Be  ye  holy,  for  I  am  holy.  v.  17.  And  if  ye  call  on  the  Father, 
who  without  respect  of  persons  judgeth  according  to  every  man's 
work,  pass  the  time  of  your  sojourning  here  in  fear:  v.  18.  Foras- 
much as  ye  know  that  ye  were  not  redeemed  with  corruptible  things, 
as  silver  and  gold,  from  your  vain  conversation  received  by  ti 
tion  from  your  fathers:  v.  19.  But  with  the  precious  blood  of 
Christ,  as  of  a  Lamb  without  blemish  and  without  spot. 

45.  g  Exod.  xx.  3. 

46.  h  1  Chron.  xxviii.  9.  And  thou,  Solomon  my  son,  know  thou 
the  God  of  thy  father,  and  serve  him  with  a  perfect  heart,  and  with 
a  willing  mind:  for  the  Lord  searcheth  all  hearts,  and  understand-* 
eth  all  the  imaginations  of  the  thoughts:  if  thou  seek  him,  he  will 
be  found  of  thee;  but  if  thou  forsake  him,  he  will  cast  thee  off  for- 
ever. Dent.  .wvi.  17.  Thou  hast  avouched  the  Lord  this  day  to  be 
thv  God,  and  to  walk  in  his  ways,  and  to  keep  his  statutes,  and  his 
commandments,  and  his  judgments,  and  to  hearken  unto  his  voice. 

i  Mat.  iv.  10.  Then  saith  Jesus  unto  him,  Get  thee  hence,  Sa- 
tan :  for  it  is  written,  Thou  shalt  worship  the  Lord  thy  God,  and 
him  onlv  shalt  thou  serve.  Psal.  xxix.  2.  Give  unto  the  Lord  the 
glory  due  unto  his  name;  worship  the  Lord  in  the  beauty  of  holiness. 

47.  k  Psal.  xiv.  1.  The  fool  hath  said  in  his  heart,  There  is  no 
God:  they  are  corrupt,  they  have  done  abominable  works,  the 
none  that  doth  good. 


The  Shorter  Catechism.  441 

true  God  as  God,/  and  our  God  \m  and  the  giv- 
ing of  that  worship  and  glory  to  any  other  which 
is  due  to  him  alone. n 

0^48.  What  are  we  specially  taught  by  these 
words  (before  me)  in  the  first  commandment? 

A.  These  words  (before  me)  in  the  first  com- 
mandment teach  us,  That  God,  who  seeth  all 
things,  taketh  notice  of,  and  is  much  displeased 
with  the  sin  of  having  any  other  god.o 

Q^  49.  Which  is  the  second  commandment? 

A.  The  second  commandment  is,  'Thou  shah 
not  make  unto  thee  any  graven  image,  or  any  likeness 
of  any  thing,  that  is  in  heaven  above,  or  that  is  in 
the  earth  beneath,  or  that  is  in  the  water  under  the 
earth.  Thou  shalt  not  bow  down  thyself  to  them, 
nor  serve  them:  for  I  the  Lord  thy  God  am  a  jealous: 
God,  visiting  the  iniquity  of  the  fathers  upon  the 
children,  -unto  the  third  and  fourth  generation  of 
them  that  hate  me ;  and  shewing  mercy  unto  thou- 


.  /  Rom.  i.  21.  Because  that  when  they  knew  God,  they  glorified 
him  not  as  God,  neither  were  thankful,  but  became  vain  in  their 
imaginations,  and  tfieir  foolish  heart  was  darkened. 

in  Psal.  lxxxi.  10.  I  am  the  Lord  thy  God  which  brought  thee  out 
of  the  land  of  Egypt;  open  thy  mouth  wide,  and  I  will  fill  it.  v.  1 1, 
But  my  people  would  not  hearken  to  my  voice,  and  Israel  would 
none  of  me. 

n  Rom.  i.  25.  Who  changed  the  truth  of  God  into  a  lie,  and 
worshipped  and  served  the  creature  more  than  the  Creator,  who  is 
blessed  tor  ever.  Amen.  v.  26.  For  this  cause  God  ga.e  them  up. 
unto  vile  affections :  for  even  their  women  did  change  the  natural 
use  into  that  which  is  against  nature. 

48.  0  Ezek.  viii.  5.  Then  said  he  unto  me,  Son  of  man,  lift  up 
thine  eyes  now  the  way  towards  the  north  :  so  I  lift  up  mine  eyes  the 
way  towards  the  north,  and  bthoid,  northward  at  the  gate  of  the  al- 
tar, this  image  of  jealousy  in  the  entry,  v.  6.  He  said  furthermore 
unto  me,  Son  of  man,  seest  thou  what  they  do  ?  even  the  great  abo- 
minations that  the  house  of  Israel  cornmitteth  here,  that  I  should  go 
far  off  from  my  sanctuary?  but  'turn  thee  vet  again,  and  thou  shalt 
see  greater  abominations,  &c.  to  the  end  of  the  chapter. 


442  The  Shorter  Catechism. 

sands  of  them  that  love  me,  and  keep  my  command- 
ment s.p 

(^50.  What  is  required  in  the  second  command- 
ment f 

A,  The  second  commandment  requireth  the 
receiving,  observing  and  keeping  pure  and  entire, 
all  such  religious  worship  and  ordinances  as  God 
hath  appointed  in  his  word.^ 

Q^  5 1 .  What  is  forbidden  in  the  second  com- 
mandment ? 

A.  The  second  commandment  forbiddeth  the 
worshipping  of  God  by  images,;-  or  any  other  way 
not  appointed  in  his  word.j- 

49.  ii  Exod.  xx.  4,  5,  6. 

50.  q  Deut.  xxxii.  46.  And  he  said  unto  them,  Set  your  hearts 
unto  all  the  words  which  I  testify  among  you  this  day;  which  ye 
shall  command  vour  children  to  observe  to  do,  all  the  word's  ol  this 
law.  Mat.  xxviii.  20.  Teaching  them  to  observe  all  things  whatso- 
ever  I  have  commanded  you  :  and  lo,  I  am  with  you  ahvay  even 
unto  the  end  of  the  world.  Amen.  A£b  ii.  42.  And  they  continued 
stedfastly  in  the  apostles'  doctrine  and  fellowship,  and  in  breaking  of 
bread,  and  in  prayers. 

51.  r  Deut.  iv.  i^.  Take  ye,  therefore,  good  heed  unto  your- 
selves (for  ye  saw  no  manner  of  similitude  on  the  day  that  the  Lord 
spake  unto  you  in  Horeb,  out  of  the  midst  of  the  fire,)  v.  16.  Lest 
ye  corrupt  yourselves,  and  make  you  a  graven  image,  the  similitude 
of  any  figure,  the  likeness  of  male  or  female,  v.  17.  The  likeness  of 
any  beast  that  is  on  the  earth,  the  likeness  of  any  winged  fowl  that 
flieth  in  the  air,  v.  18.  The  likeness  of  any  thing  that  creepeth  on 
the  ground,  the  likeness  of  any  fish  that  is  in  the  waters  btneath  the 
earth:  v.  19.  And  lest  thou  lift  up  thine  e yes  unto  heaven,  and  when 
thou  seest  the  sun,  and  the  moon,  and  the  star?,  even  all  the  host  of 
heaven,  shouldst  be  driven  to  worship  them,  and  serve  them,  which 
the  Lord  thy  God  hath  divided  unto  all  nations  under  the  whole 
heaven.  Exod.  xxxii.  5.  And  when  Aaron  saw  it,  he  built  an  altar 
before  it,  and  Aaron  made  proclamation,  and  said,  To-morrow  is 
a  feast  to  the  Lord.  v.  8.  They  have  turned  aside  quickly  out  of  the 
way  which  I  commanded  them  :  they  have  made  them  a  molten  calf, 
and  have  worshipped  it,  and  have  sacrificed  thereunto,  and  ^aid, 
These  be  thy  Gods,  O  Israel,  which  have  brought  thee  up  out  ot 
the  land  of  Egypt. 

I  Deut.  x:i.  ix.    Thou  shah  not  do  so  unto  the  Lord  thv  God: 


tfhe  Shorter  Catechism.  44.J 

Q.  52.  What  are  the  reasons  annexed  to  the  se- 
cond commandment? 

A.  The  reasons  annexed  to  the  second  com- 
mandment, are,  God's  sovereignty  over  us,^  his 
propriety  in  us,i;  and  the  zeal  he  hath  to  his  own 
worship.^ 

Q.   5  3.   Which  is  the  third  commandment? 

A.  The  third  commandment  is,  Thou  shah  not 
take  the  name  of  the  Lord  thy  God  in  vain  :  for  the 
Lord  will  not  hold  him  guiltless  that  taketh  his  name 
in  vain.x 

Q^54.  What  is  required  in  the  third  command- 
ment  ? 

A.  The  third  commandment  requireth  the  holy 
and  reverend  use  of  God's  names,y  titles, s  attri- 
butes,^ ordinances,^  word,f  and  works. d 

for  every  abomination  to  the  Lord  which  he  hateth,  have  thev 
done  unto  their  gods :  for  even  their  sons  and  their  daughters  they 
have  burnt  in  the  fire  to  their  gods.  v.  32.  What  thing  soever  I 
command  you,  observe  to  do  it :  thou  shalt  not  add  thereto,  nor  di- 
minish from  it. 

52.  /  Psal.  xcv.  2.  Let  us  come  before  his  presence  with  thanks- 
giving, and  make  a  joyful  noise  unto  him  with  psalms,  v.  3.  For 
the  Lord  is  a  great  God,  and  a  great  King  above  all  gods.  v.  6.  O 
come,  let  us  worship  and  bow  down :  let  us  kneel  betore  the  Lord 
our  Maker. 

v  Psal.  xlv.  11.  So  shall  the  King  greatly  desire  thy  beauty:  for 
he  is  thy  Lord,  and  worship  thou  him. 

10  Exod.  xxxiv.  13.  But  ye  shall  destroy  their  altars,  break  their 
images,  and  cut  down  their  groves,  v.  14.  For  thou  shalt  worship 
no  other  god :  for  the  Lord,  whose  name  is  Jealous,  is  a  jealous  God. 

53.  x  Exod.  xx.  7. 

54.  y  Mat.  vi.  9.  After  this  manner  therefore  pray  ye :  Our 
Father  which  art  in  heaven,  Hallowed  be  thy  name. — Deut.  xxviii. 
58.  If  thou  wilt  not  observe  to  do  all  the  words  of  this  law  that  are 
written  in  this  book,  that  thou  mavest  fear  this  glorious  and  fearful 
name,  THE  LORD  THY  GOD.' 

z  Psal.  lxviii.  4.  Sing  unto  God,  sing  praises  unto  his  name: 
extol  him  that  rideth  upon  the  heavens  by  his  name  JAH,  and  re- 
joice before  him. 

a  Rev.  xv.  3.  And  they  sing  the  song  of  Moses  the  servant  of  Gody 


444  1  he  Shorter  Catechism. 

'  0^55-  What  Is  forbidden  in  the  third  command- 
ment t 

A.  The  third   commandment    forbiddeth    all 
profaning  or  abusing  of  any  thing  whereby  God. 
inaketh  himself  known.*? 

Q^  $6.  What  is  the  reason  annexed  to  the  third 
commandment  f 

A.  The  reason  annexed  to  the  third  command- 
ment is,  That,  however  the  breakers  of  this  com- 
mandment  may  escape  punishment  from  men, 

and  the  song  of  the  Lamb,  saying,  Great  and  marvellous  are  thy 
»■•.  orks,  Lord  God  Almighty:  just  and  true  are  thy  ways,  thou  King 
of  saints,  v.  4.  Who  shall  not  fear  thee,  O  Lord,  and  glorify  thy 
name?  for  thou  only  art  holy  :  for  all  nations  shall  come  and  wor- 
Ship  before  thee;  for  thy  judgments  are  made  manifest. 

b  Mai.  i.  11.  For  from  the  rising  of  the  sun,  even  unto  the  go- 
ing down  of  the  same,  my  name  shall  be  great  among  the  Gentiles ; 
and  in  every  place  incense  shall  be  offered  unto  my  name,  and  a 
pure  offering  :  for  my  name  shall  be  great  among  the  Heathen,  saith 
the  Lord  of  hosts,  v.  14.  But  cursed  be  the  deceiver,  which  hath 
in  his  flock  a  male,  and  vowerh  and  sacrificeth  unto  the  Lord  a  cor- 
rupt thing;  for  I  am  a  great  King,  saith  the  Lord  of  hosts,  and  my 
name  is  dreadful  among  the  Heathen. 

c  Psal.  exxxviii.  1.  I  will  praise  thee  with  my  whole  heart,  before 
the  gods  will  I  sing  praise  unto  thee.  v.  2.  I  will  worship  towards 
thy  holy  temple,  and  praise  thy  name,  for  thy  loving-kindness,  and 
ior  thy  truth  :  for  thou  hast  magnified  thy  word  above  all  thy  name. 

d  job  xxxvi.  24.  Remember  that  thou  magnify  his  work,  which 
men  behold. 

55.  e  Mai.  i.  6.  A  son  honoureth  his  father,  and  a  servant  his  mas- 
ter; if  then  I  be  a  father,  where  is  mine  honour?  and  if  I  be  a  mas- 
ter, where  is  my  fear?  saith  the  Lord  of  hosts  unto  you,  O  pri 
that  despise  my  natri(  i  and  ye  say,  'Winn  in  have  we  despised  thy 
name?  v.  7.  Ve  oiler  polluted  bread  upon  mine  altar;  and  ye 
Wherein  have  we  polluted  thee?  in  that  ye  say,  The  table  of  the 
Lord  is  Contemptible,  v.  11.  But  ye  have  profaned  it,  in  that  ye 
say,  The  table  of  the  Lord  is  polluted,  and  the   fruit  thereof,  t\ 

meat  is  contemptible.  Mai.  ii.  2.  If  ye  will  not  hear,  and  if  ye 
will  not  lay  it  to  heart,  to  give  glorv  unto  my  name,  saith  the  Lord 
of  hosts,  1  will  even  send  a  curse  upon  vou,  and  I  wiil  curse  you." 
illgs:  yea.  I  have  cursed  them  already,  because  ve  do  not  lav  it 
10  heart.  Mai.  hi.  14.  Ye  hut  aid,  [t  is  vain  to  serve  God:  and 
what  profit  is  it,  that  we  have  kept  his  ordinance,  and  that  w ••  I 
.'  d  mournfully  befon  :      ! 


*fhe  Shorter  Catechism.  443 

Vet  the  Lord  our  God  will  not  suffer  them  t>p 
escape  his  righteous  judgment^ 

Q.   57.   Which  is  the  fourth  commandment? 

A.  The  fourth  commandment  is,  Remember 
the  Sabbath- clay,  to  keep  it  holy.  Six  days  shaft 
thou  labour,  and  do  all  thy  work.  But  the  seventh 
day  is  the  Sabbath  of  the  Lord  thy  God:  in  it  thou 
shalt  not  do  any  work,  thou,  nor  thy  son,  nor  thy 
daughter,  thy  man-servant,  nor  thy  maid-servant, 
nor  thy  cattle,  nor  thy  stranger  that  is  within  thy 
gates.  For  in  six  days  the  Lord  made  heaven  and 
earth,  the  sea,  and  all  that-  in  them  is,  and  rested 
the  seventh  day:  wherefore  the  Lord  blessed  the 
Sabbath-day,  and  hallowed  it.g 

0^58.  What  is  required  in  the  fourth  com- 
mandment ? 

A.  The  fourth  commandment  requireth  the 
keeping  holy  to  God,  such  set  times  as  he  hath 
appointed  in  his  word ;  expressly  one  whole  day 
in  seven,  to  be  a  holy  Sabbath  to  himself./6 

56./  1  Sam.  ii.  12.  Now  the  sons  of  Eli  were  sons  of  Belial, 
they  knew  not  the  Lord.  v.  17.  Wherefore  the  sin  of  the  young 
men  was  very  great  before  the  Lord ;  for  men  abhorred  the  offering 
of  the  Lord.  v.  22,  Now  Eli  was  very  old,  and  heard  all  that  his 
sons  did  unto  all  Israel,  and  how  they  lay  with  the  women  that  as- 
sembled at  the  door  of  the  tabernacle  of  the  congregation,  v.  29, 
Wherefore  kick  ye  at  my  sacrifice,  and  at  mine  offering  which  I 
have  commanded  in  my  habitation,  and  honoured  thy  sons  above 
me,  to  make  yourselves  fat  with  the  chiefest  of  all  the  offerings  of 
Israel  my  people?  1  Sam.  hi.  13.  For  I  have  told  him,  that  I  wiil 
judge  his  house  for  ever,  for  the  iniquity  which  he  knoweth  ;  be- 
cause his  sons  made  themselves  vile,  and  he  restrained  them  not, 
Deut,  xxviii.  58.  If  thou  wilt  not  observe  to  do  all  the  words  of  this 
law  that  are  written  in  this  book,  that  thou  mayest  fear  this  glorious 
and  fearful  name,  THE  LORD  THY  GOD;  v.  59.  Then  the 
Lord  will  make  thy  plagues  wonderful,  and  the  plagues  of  thv  ;cc 'd, 
even  great  plagues,  and  of  long  continuance,  and  sore  sicknesses 
and  of  long  continuance. 

57.  g  Exod.  xx.  8 — 11. 

c8,  h  Deut.  v.  13,  Keep  the  Sabbath-day  to  saactifv  ir?  as  the 


446  ^khe  Shorter  Catechism, 

Q.  59.  irh/eh  day  of  the  seven  hath  God  apr 
pointed  to  be  the  weekly  Sabbath? 

A.  From  flic  beginning  of  the  world  to  the 
resurrection  of  Christ,  God  appointed  the  seventh 
day  of  the  week  to  be  the  weekly  Sabbath  ;  and 
the  first  day  of  the  week  ever  since,  to  continue 
to  the  end  of  the  world,  which  is  the  Christian 
Sab/bath./ 

Q.   6q.  How  is  the  Sabbath  to  be  sanctified? 

A.  The  Sabbath  is  to  be  sanctified  by  a  holy 
resting  all  that  dav,/C'  even  from  such  worldly 
employments  and  recreations  as  are  lawful  on 
other  days,/  and  spending  the  whole  time  in  the 

Lord  thy  God  hath  commanded  thee.  v.  13.  Six  days  thou  shalt 
labour,  and  do  all  thy  work:  v.  14.  But  the  seventh  day  is  the  Sab- 
bath of  the  Lord  thy  Cod:  in  it  thou  shalt  not  do  any  work,  thou, 
nor  thy  son,  nor  thy  daughter,  nor  thy  man-servant,  nor  thy  maid- 
servant, nor  thine  ox,  nor  thine  ass,  nor  any  of  thy  cattle,  nor  thy 
stranger  that  is  within  thy  gates ;  that  thy  man-servant  and  thy  maid- 
servant may  rest  as  well  as  thou. 

co.  i  Gen.  ii.  ?.  And  on  the  seventh  day  God  ended  his  work 
which  he  had  made;  and  he  rested  on  the  seventh  day  from  all  his 
workwhi  id  made.     v.  3.  And  God  blessed  the  seventh  day, 

and  san&ifii  d  it ;  because  that  in  it  he  had  rested  from  all  his  work, 
which  God  created  and  made,  I  Cor.  xvi.  1.  Now  concerning  the 
polleetioQ  for  the  saints,  as  I  have  given  order  to  the  churches  of  Ga- 
,,  even  so  do  ye.  v.  a.  Upon  the  first  day  of  the  week,  let  every 
one  of  von  lay  by  him  in  store,  as  God  hath  pro  pered  him, 
then  when!  come.     Acts  xx.  7.  And  upon  the 

first  day  <  C  when  the  disciples  came  together  to  bi 

id,  Paul  preached  unto  tl  en  .  ready  to  d.-v.rt  on  the  morrow, 
and  continued  his  speech  until  midi 

6  ).  /  Exod.  w.  t.   I  dayi  to  keep  h  holy, 

v.  10.  But  the  seventh  day  is  the  Sabbath  of  the  Lord  thy  God:  in 
it  thou  shalt  not  do  any  work,  thou,  nor  thy  son,  &c.     Exod. 
3r,  And  id,  Eat  that  to-day;  for  to-day  is  a  Sabbath  unto 

the  Lord  ;  to  d  tall  not  find  ir  in  the  field,     v.  »6.  Six  di  ) 

her  it;  but  on  1  ,  which  is  the  Sabbath,  in  it 

there  shall  be  none.  v.  27.  And  it  came  to  pass,  thai  thei  t  went  out 
SOm  on  the  seventh  day  for  to  gather,  and  they  found 

none.  v.  a  !.  \  d  the  Lord  said  unto  Moses,  How  long  refuse  ye 
to  keep  my  con  :irs  and  my  laws? 

/  Neh.  xiii.  1 5.  Li  those  days  saw  I  in  Judah  some  treading  wine 


*the  Shorter  Catechism. 


447 


public  and  private  exercises  of  God's  worship,;;; 
except  so  much  as  is  to  be  taken  up  in  the  works 
of  necessity  and  mercy. n 

Q.  6 1 .  What  is  forbidden  in  the  fourth  command- 
matt  f 

A.  The  fourth  commandment  forbiddeth  the 
omission,  or  careless  performance  of  the  duties 
required,*?  and  the  profaning  the  day  by  idleness, 

presses  on  the  Sabbath,  and  bringing  in  sheaves,  and  lading  asses; 
as  also  wine,  grapes,  and  figs,  and  all  manner  of  burdens,  which 
they  brought  into  Jerusalem  on  the  Sabbath-day:  and  I  testified 
against  them  in  the  day  wherein  they  sold  victuals,  v.  16.  There 
dwelt  men  of  Tyre  also,  therein,  which  brought  fish,  and  all  man- 
ner of  ware,  and  sold  en  the  Sabbath  unto  the  children  of  Judah, 
and  in  Jerusalem,  v.  i  7.  Then  I  contended  with  the  nobles  of  Ju- 
dah, and  said  unto  them,  What  evil  thing  is  this  that  ye  do,  and 
profane  the  Sabbath-day?  v.  18.  Did  not  your  fathers  thus,  and  did 
not  our  God  bring  all  this  evil  upon  us,  and  upon  this  city?  Yet 
ye  bring  more  wrath  upon  Israel,  by  profaning  the  Sabbath,  v.  19. 
And  it  came  to  pass,  that  when  the  gates  of  Jerusalem  began  to  be 
dark  before  the  Sabbath,  I  commanded  that  the  gates  should  be  shut, 
and  charged  that  they  should  not  be  opened  till  after  the  Sabbath : 
and  some  of  my  servants  set  I  at  the  gates,  that  there  should  no  bur- 
den be  brought  in  on  the  Sabbath-day.  v.  21.  Then  I  testified 
against  them,  and  said  unto  them,  Why  lodge  ye  about  the  wall?  if 
ye  do  so  again,  I  will  lay  hands  on  you.  From  that  time  forth  came 
they  no  more  on  the  Sabbath,  v.  22.  And  I  commanded  the  Le- 
viteS,  that  they  should  cleanse  themselves,  and  that  they  should  come 
and  keep  the  gates,  to  sandtily  the  Sabbath-day.  Remember  me,  O 
my  God,  concerning  this  also,  and  spare  me  according  to  the  great- 
ness of  thy  mercy. 

m  Luke  iv.  16.  And  he  came  to  Nazareth,  where  he  had  been 
brought  up:  and  as  his  custom  was,  he  went  into  the  synagogue  on 
the  Sabbath-day,  and  stood  up  for  to  read.  Acts  xx.  7.  And  upon 
the  first  day  of  the  week,  &c.  (See  letter/.)  Psal.  xcii.  title,  A 
psalm,  or  song  for  the  Sabbath-day.  Isa.  lxvi.  23.  And  it  shall  come 
to  pass,  that  from  one  new-moon  to  another,  and  from  one  Sabbath 
to  another,  shall  all  flesh  come  to  worship  before  me,  saith  the  Lord. 

h  Mat.  xii.  from  verse  1  to  31.  At  that  time  Jesus  went  on  the 
Sabbath-day  through  the  corn,  and  his  disciples  were  an  hungered, 
and  began  to  pluck  the  ears  of  corn,  and  to  eat.  v.  2.  But  when. 
the  Pharisees,  &c.  v.  12.— It  is  lawful  to  do  well  on  the  Sabbath- 
days. 

61.  0  Ezek.  xxii.  26.  Her  priests  have  violated  my  law.  and  have 


¥ht  Shorter  Catechism 

p  or  doing  that  which  is  in  itself  sinful, q  o'r  bv 
unnecessary  thoughts,  words  or  works,  about: 
our  worldly  employments  or  recreations. r 

Q.  62.  J  That  are  J  he  reasons  annexed  to  the 
fourth  Commandment? 

A.  The  reasons  annexed  to  the  fourth  Com- 
mandment  are,   God's  allowing  us  six  days  of 

profaned  mine  holy  things :  they  have  put  no  difference  between  th~ 

f  and  profane,  neither  have  they  shewed  difference  between  the 

unclean  and  the  clean,    and  have  hid  their  eyes  from  my  Sabbaths, 

I  am  profaned  among  them.     Amos  viii.   5.     Saying,  When 

new-moon  be  gone,  that  we  may  sell  corn?  and  the  Sab- 

i,  that  we  may  set  forth  wneat,  making  the  ephah  small,  and  the 

'el  great,  and  falsifying  the  balances  by  deceit:     Mai.  i.  15.    Ye 

.  Behold,  what  a  weariness  i->  it  ?  and  ye  have  snuffed  at  it, 

:.aith  the  Lord  of  ho^ts;  and  ye  brought  that  which  was  torn,  and  the 

iame,  and  the  sick  ;  thus  ye  brought  an  offering :  should  I  accept: 

this  of  your  hands  r  saith  the  Lord. 

ji  Aclsxx.  7.  And  upon  the  first  day  of  the  week,  when  the  dis- 

r  to  break  bread,  Paul  preached  unto  them,  ready 

to  depart  on  the  morrow,  and  continued  his  speech  until  midnight. 

v.  9.  And  there  sat  in  a  window  a  certain  young  man  named  Euty- 

-,  being  fallen  into  a  deep  sleep  :  and  as  Paul  was  long  preaching, 

lown  with  sleep,  and  tell  down  from  the  third  loit,  and  was 

up  dead. 

q  Ezt!..  xxiii.  3S.  Moreover,  this  they  have  done  unto  me:  they 

have  defiled  my  sanctuary  in  the  same  day,  and  have  profaned  my 

Sabbaths. 

r  jer.  xvii.  24.  And  it  shall  come  to  pass,  if  ye  diligently  hearken 

unto  me,  saith  the  Lord,  to  bring  in  no  burden  through  tiie  gates  of 

thii  citv  on  the  Sibbath-day,  but  hallow    the  Sabbath-day,  to   do 

no  work  therein:   v.  2^.  Then  shall  there  enter  into  t.  legates  of  this 

<  ity,  kings  and  princes  sitting  upon  the  throne  ot  David,  riding  in 

.  they  and  their  princes,  the  men  of  Judah, 

and  the  inhabitants  of  Jerusalem,  and  this  city  shall  remain  for  ever. 

...  And  they  shall  come  from  the  cities  of  Judah,  and  from  the 

:es  ::br>ut  Jerusalem,  and  from  the  land  of  Benjamin,  and  from 

the  plaii',  and  from  the  mountain1;,  and  from  the  south,  bringing 

burnt-offerings,  and  sacrifices,  and  mear-offeringc,  and  incense,  and 

bringing  sacrifices  of  praise  unto  the  house  of  the  Lord.     la.  Iviii. 

15.   >t  thou  'urn  away  thy  foot  from  the  Sabbath,   from  doing  thy 

pleasure  on  my  holy  day,  and  call  the  Sabbath  a  delight,  the  holy  of 

.   honourable;  and  shalt  honour  him,  not  doing  thine  own 

wfing  thine  own  pleasure,  nor   speaking  thine  "own: 

wor. 


The  Shorter  Catechism',  &±q 

the  week  for  our  own  employments,*  his  chal- 
lenging a  special  propriety  in  the  seventh,   his 
own  example,  and  his  blessing  the  Sabbath  day.* 
Q^  63.  Which  is  the  fifth  Commandment  f 
A.  The  fifth   Commandment  is,  Honour  thy 
father  and  thy  mother-,   that  thy  days  may  be  long 
upon  the  land  which  the  Lord  thy  Godgiveih  t'hbeso 
(^64.  What  is  required  in  the  fifth  Command- 
ment ? 

A.  The  fifth  Commandment  requireth  the 
preserving  the  honour,  arid  performing  the  du- 
ties belonging  to  every  one  in  their  several  places 
and  relations,  as  superiors,™  inferiors, x or  equals. y 

(^65.  What  is  forbidden  in  the  fifth  Command- 
ment? 

A.  The  fifth  Commandment  forbiddeth  the 
negleding  of,  or  doing  any  thing  against  the  ho- 
nour and  duty  which  belongeth  to  every  one  in 
their  several  places  and  relations. 3 

62  s  Exod.  xx.  9.  Six  days  shall  thou  labour,  and  do  all  thy  work 
t  :  t  Exod.  xx  1 1.  Tor  in  six  days  the  Lord  made  heaven  and  earth, 
the  sea,  and  all  that  in  them  is,  and  rested  the  seventh  day:  where' 
lore  the  Lord  blessed  the  Sabbath-day,  and  hallowed  it.    ' 

63.  v  Exod.  xx.  12. 

64.  w.  Eph.  V.21.  Submitting  yourselves  one  to  another  in  the 
tear  or  God. 

•   -v  1  Pet.  ii.  15.  Honour  all  men.     Love  the  brotherhood.     Feat 
God.     Honour  the  king. 

j-  Rom.  xii,  10.  Be  kindly  affeaioned  one  to  another;  with  bro- 
therly love,  in  honour  preferring  one  another. 

,  .65.  z  Mat.  ay.  4,  For  God  commanded,  saying,  Honour  thy  fa- 
ther and  mother:  and,  He  that  curseth  father  or  mother,  let  him  die 
the  death,     v.  5.  But  ye  say,  Whosoever  shall  say  to  his  father  or 
lusinother,  It  is  a  gift  by  whatsoever  thou  mightest  be  profited  by 
me,  v.  6.  And  honour  not  his  father  or  his  mother,  he  shall  be  f> 
1  bus  have  ye  made  the  commandment  of  God  of  none  effea  by 
your .tradition.     Ezek.  xxxiv.  2.  Son  of  man,  prophesy  against  the 
snepherds  of  Israel,  prophesy  and  say  unto  them    Thns^aith  the 
Lord  God  unto  the  shepherds,  Wo  be  to  the  shepherd*  of  I 
do  feed  themselves:  should  not  the  shepherds  fce^I  the  flocks?  v    , 
Ze  eat  the  fat,  and  ye  clothe  you  with  the  wool,  ye  kill  them  t 


4jo  'fhe  Shorter  Catechism, 

Q^  66.  What  is  the  reason  annexed  to  the  fifth 
Commandment  ? 

A.  The  reason  annexed  to  the  fifth  Command- 
ment is,  a  promise  of  long  life  and  prosperity  (as 
far  as  it  shall  serve  for  God's  glory  and  their  own 
good)  to  all  such  as  keep  this  commandment.^ 

Q^  67.   Which  is  the  sixth  Commandment? 

A.  The  sixth  Commandment  is,  Thou  shalt 
not  kill.b 

Q^  68.  What  is  required  in  the  sixth  Command- 
ment  ? 

A.  The  sixth  Commandment  requireth  all  law- 
ful endeavours  to  preserve  our  own  life,*;  and  the 
life  of  others.*/ 

Q.  69.  What  is  forbidden  in  the  sixth  Com* 
mandment  ? 

A.  The  sixth  Commandment  forbiddeth  the  tak- 
ing away  of  our  own  life,  or  the  life  of  our  neigh- 
bour unjustly,  or  whatsoever  tendeth  thereunto. £ 

are  fed :  but-ye  feed  not  the  flock,  v.  4.  The  diseased  have  ye  not 
strengthened,  neither  have  ye  healed  that  which  was  sick,  neither  have 
ye  bound  up  that  which  was  broken,  neither  have  ye  brought  again 
that  which  was  driven  away,  neither  have  ye  sought  that  which  was 
lost;  but  with  force  and  with  cruelty  have  ye  ruled  them.  Rom. 
xiii.  8.  Owe  no  man  any  thing,  but  to  love  one  another;  for  h? 
that  loveth  another,  hath  fulfilled  the  law. 

66.  a  Deut.  v.  16.  Honour  thy  father  and  thy  mother,  as  the 
Lord  thy  God  hath  commanded  thee  ;  that  thy  days  may  be  prolong- 
ed, and  that  it  may  go  well  with  thee,  in  the  land  which  the  Lord 
thy  God  giveth  thee.  Eph.  vi.  2.  Honour  thy  father  and  mother, 
(which  is  the  first  commandment,  with  promise,)  v.  3.  That  it  may 
be  well  with  thee,  and  thou  mayest  live  long  on  the  earth. 

67.  b  lixod.  xx.  1 3. 

68.  c  Eph.  v.  28.  So  ought  men  to  love  their  own  wives,  as  their 
own  bodies:  he  that  lovtth  his  wife,  loveth  himself,  v.  29.  For  no 
man  ever  yet  hated  his  own  tiesh ;  but  nourisheth  and  cherisheth  it, 
even  as  the  Lord  the  church. 

it  1  Kings  xviii.  4.  For  it  was  so,  when  Jezebel  cut  oft"  the  pro- 
phets of  the  Lord,  that  Obadiah  took  an  hundred  prophets,  and  hid 
them  by  fifty  in  a  cave,  and  inA  them  with  bread  and  water. 

69.  e  Acls  xvi.  a8.  But  Pawl  Cried  with  ■  loud  voice,  saying,  Do 


T'he  Shorter  Catechism.  4*1 

Q^  70.  Which  is  the  seventh -Commandment  t 

A.  The  seventh  Commandment  is,  Thou  shaft 
pot  commit  adultery  ?f 

Q^  7 1 .  What  is  required  in  the  seventh  Com- 
mandment f 

A.  The  seventh  Commandment  requireth  the 
preservation  of  our  own  and  our  neighbour's 
chastity,  in  heart,  speech,  and  behaviour.^ 

Q^72.  What  is  forbidden  in  the  seventh  Com- 
mandment f 

A.  The  seventh  Commandment  forbiddeth  all 
unchaste  thoughts,  words,  and  a6tions.$ 

Q.   73.  Which  is  the  eighth  Commandment? 

thyself  no  harm;  for  we  are  all  here.  Gen.  ix.  6.  Whoso  sheddeth 
man's  blood,  by  man  shall  his  blood  be  shed  :  for  in  the  imaoe  of 
God  made  he  man. 

70.  f  Exod.  xx.  14. 

ji.  g  i  Cor.  vii.  2.  Nevertheless,  to  avoid  fornication/let  every 
man  have  his  own  wife,  and  let  every  woman  have  her  own  husband. 
v.  3.  Let  the  husband  render  unto  the  wife  due  benevolence:  and 
likewise  also  the  wife  unto  the  husband,  v.  5.  Defraud  ye  not  one 
the  other,  except  it  be  with  consent  for  a  time,  that  ye  may  give 
yourselves  to  fasting  and  prayer;  and  come  together  again,  that  Satan 
tempt  you  not  for  your  incontinency.  v.  34.  There  is  difference 
also  between  a  wife  and  a  virgin:  the  unmarried  woman  careth  for 
the  things  of  the  Lord,  that  she  may  be  holy,  both  in  body  and  in 
spirit:  but  she  that  is  married,  careth  for  the  things  of  the  world, 
how  she  may  please  her  husband,  v.  36.  But  if  any  man  think  that 
he  behaveth  himself  uncomely  toward  his  virgin,  if  she  pass  the 
flower  of  her  age,  and  need  so  require,  let  him  do  what  he  will,  he 
sinneth  not:  let  them  marry.  Col.  iv.  6.  Let  your  speech  be  al- 
ways with  grace,  seasoned  with  salt,  that  ye  [may  know  how  ye 
ought  to  answer  every  man.  I  Peter  iii.  2.  While  they  behold  your 
chaste  conversation  coupled  with  fear. 

72.  h  Mat.  xv.  19.  For  out  of  the  heart  proceed  evil  thoughts, 
murders,  adulteries,  fornications,  thefts,  false  witnesses,  blasphemies. 
Mat.  v.  28.  But  I  say  unto  you,  That  whosoever  looketh  on  a  wo- 
man to  lust  after  her,  hath  committed  adultery  with  her  already  in 
his  heart.  Eph.  v.  3.  But  fornication,  and  all  uncleanness,  or  covet- 
ousness,  let  it  not  be  once  named  amongst  you,  as  becometh  saints: 
v.  4.  Neither  filthiness,  nor  foolish  talking,  nor  jesting,  which  are 
not  convenient:  but  rather  giving  of  thanks. 


452  ¥he  Shorter  Catechism. 

A.  The  eighth  Commandment  is,  Thou  shalt, 
not  steal. i 

Q^  74.  What  is  required  in  the  eighth  Com* 
mdridment  P 

A.  The  eighth  Commandment  requireth  the 
lawful  procuring  and  furthering  the  wealth  and 
outward  estate  of  ourselves  and  others./' 

Q^  75.  What  is  forbidden  in  the  eighth  Com- 
uian'chnent  f 

A.    The    eighth     Commandment    forbiddeth. 


73.  i  Exod.  xx.  1  (J. 

74.  k  Gen.  xxx.  30.  For  it  was  little  which  thou  hadst  before  I 
pame,  and  it  is  now  increased  unto  a  multitude;  and  the  Lord  hath 
blessed  thee  since  my  coming:  and  now  when  shall  I  provide  for 
mine  own  house  also?  1  Tim.  v.  3.  But  if  any  provide  not  for  his 
own,  and  specially  for  those  of  his  own  house,  he  hath  denied  the 
faith,  and  is  worse  than  an  infidel.  Lev.  xxv.  35.  And  if  thy  bro- 
ther be  waxen  poor,  and  fallen  in  decay  with  thee;  then  thou  shalt 
relieve  him:  yea,  though  he  be  a  stranger,  or  a  sojourner;  that  he 
may  live  with  thee.  Deut.  xxii.  1,  Thou  shalt  not  see  thy  brother's 
ox  or  his  sheep  go  astray,  and  hide  thyself  from  them:  thou  shalt,  in 
any  case,  bring  them  again  unto  thy  brother,  v.  2.  And  if  thy 
brother  be  not  nigh  unto  thee,  or  if  thou  know  him  not,  then  thou 
shalt  bring  it  unto  thine  own  house,  and  it  shall  be  with  thee  until 
thy  brother  seek  after  it,  and  thou  shalt  restore  it  to  him  again,  v.  3. 
In  like  manner  shalt  thou  do  with  hi;  ass,  and  so  shalt  thou  do  with 
his  raiment,  and  with  all  lost  things  ol  thy  brother's,  which  he  hath 
lost,  and  thou  hast  found,  shalt  thou  do  likewise :  thou  mayst  not 
hide  thyself,  v.  4.  Thou  shall  not  see  thy  brother's  ass  or  his  ox  fall 
«lown  by  the  wav,  and  hidethysell  from  him:  thou  shalt  surely  help 
him  to  lift  them  up  a,gain.  v.  5.  The  woman  shall  not  wrar  that 
which  pertaiiuth  unto  a  man,  neither  shall  a  man  put  on  a  woman's 
garment:  for  all  that  do  so  are  abomination  unto  the  Lord  thy  God. 
i\xod.  xxiii.  4.  It  thou  meet  thine  enemy'so*  or  his  ass  going  astray, 
thou  shalt  surely  bring  it  back  to  him  again  v,  5.  If  thou  see  the 
ass  of  him  that  haterh  v.nr,  lying  under  his  burden,  and  wouldst 
forbear  to  help  him,  thou  shalt  surely  help  with  him.  Gen.  xlvii. 
34.  And  Joseph  gathered  up  all  the  money  that  was  found  in  the 
land  of  Egypt,  and  in  the  land  of  Canaan,  for  the  corn  which  they 
bought:  and  foseph  brought  the  money  into  Pharaoh's  house,  v. 
zo.  And  foseph  bought  all  the  land  ol  Egypt  tor  Pharaoh;  for  the 
Egyptians  sold  every  man  his  field,  because  the  famine  prevailed 
over  them  ;  so  the  land  became  Pharaob's. 


'The  Shorter  Catechism.  ^c-i 

whatsoever  doth,  or  may  unjustly  hinder  our  own 
or  our  neighbour's  wealth  or  outward  estate./ 

Q^  76.   IV hie h  is  the  ninth  Commandment  ? 

A.  The  ninth  Commandment  is,  'Thou  shaft 
not  bear  false  witness  against  thy  neighbour. m 

Q^  77.  What  is  required  in  the  ninth  Command- 
ment  ? 

A.  The  ninth  Commandment  requireth  thq 
maintaining  and  promoting  of  truth  between 
man  and  man,;/  and  of  our  own   and  our  neio-h- 

O 

bour's  good  name,o  especially  in  witness  bearing./) 
Q.   78.   What   is  forbidden  in   the  flint h  Com- 
mandment ? 

A.  The  ninth  Commandment  forbiddeth  what- 
soever is  prejudicial  to  truth,  or  injurious  to  our 
pwn  or  our  neighbour's  good  name.^ 

75.  /  Prov.  xxi.  17.  He  that  loveth  pleasure  shall  be  a  poor  man: 
he  that  loveth  wine  and  oil  shall  not  be  rich.  Prov.  xxiii.  20.  Be  not 
amongst  wine-bibbers  ;  amongst  riotous  eaters  of  flesh,  v.  21.  For 
the  drunkard  and  the  glutton  shall  come  to  poverty:  and  drowsiness 
shall  clothe  a  man  with  rags.  Prov.  xxviji.  19.  He  that  tilleth  his 
land,  shall  have  plenty  of  bread:  but  he  that  followeth  after  vain 
persons,  shall  have  poverty  enough.  Eph.  iv.  28.  Let  him  that 
stole,  steal  no  more:  but  rather  let  him  labour,  working  with  his 
hands  the  thing  which  is  good,  that  he  may  have  to  give  to  him  that 
needeth. 

76.  m  Exod.  xx.  16. 

77.  n  Zech.  viii.  16.  These  are  the  things  that  ye  shall  do,  Speak 
ye  every  man  the  truth  to  his  neighbour:  execute  the  judgment  of 
truth  and  peace  in  your  gates. 

0  3  John  12.  Demetrius  hath  good  report  of  all  men,  and  of  the 
truth  itself :  yea,  and  we  also  bear  record,  and  ye  know  that  our  re- 
cord is  true. 

ft  Prov.  xiv,  5.  A  faithful  witness  will  not  lie;  but  a  false  witness 
will  utter  lies.  v.  25.  A  true  witness  dclivereth  souls,  but  a  deceit- 
ful witness  speaketh  lies. 

78.  q  1  Sam.  xvii.  28.  And  Eliab  his  eldest  brother  heard  when 
he  spake  unto  the  men ;  and  Eliab's  anger  was  kindled  against  David, 
and  he  said,  Why  earnest  thou  down  hither?  and  with  whom  hast 
thou  left  those  few  sheep  in  the  wilderness?  I  know  thy  pride,  and 
the  haughtiness  of  thine  heart ;  for  thou  art  come  down,  that  thou 


45+  %he  Shorter  Catechism, 

Q.   yg.  Which  is  the  tenth  Commandment? 

A.  The  tenth  Commandment  is,  fhou  shah 
not  covet  thy  neighbour 's  house,  thou  shalt  not  co- 
vet thy  neighbour  s  wife,  nor  his  man-servant,  nor 
his  maid-servant,  nor  his  ox,  nor  his  ass,  nor  any 
thing  that  is  thy  neighbour  s.r 

Q.  80.  What  is  required  in  the  tenth  Command- 
ment f 

A.  The  tenth  Commandment  requireth  full 
contentment  with  our  own  condition,!  with  a 
right  and  charitable  frame  of  spirit  toward  our 
neighbour,  and  all  that  is  his./ 

Q^  8 1 .  What  is  forbidden  in  the  tenth  Command- 
ment t 

A.  The  tenth  Commandment  forbiddeth  all 
discontentment  with  our  own  estate,^  envying 

mightest  see  the  battle.  Lev.  xix.  16.  Thou  shalt  not  go  up  and 
down  as  a  tale-bearer  among  thy  people;  neither  shalt  thou  stand 
against  the  blood  of  thy  neighbour:  I  am  the  Lord.  Psal.  xv.  3. 
He  that  backbiicth  not  with  his  tongue,  nor  doth  evil  to  his  ncign- 
bour,  nor  taketh  up  a  reproach  against  his  neighbour. 

79.  r  Exod.  xx.  1  7. 

i>o.  s  Heb.  xiii.  $.  Let  your  conversation  be  without  covetousnessi 
and  be  content  with  such  tilings  as  ye  have;  for  he  hath  said,  1  will 
never  leave  thee,  nor  forsake  thee.  1  Tim.  vi.  o.  But  godliness  with 
contentment  is  great  gain. 

/  Job  xxxi.  29.  If  I  rejoiced  at  th  >n  of  him  that  bated 

mc,  or  lift  up  myself  when  evil  found  him.  Rom.  xii.  15.  Rejoice 
with  them  that  do  rejoice,  and  wee;;  with  them  that  weep.  1  Tim. 
i.  5.  Now  the  end  of  the  commandment  is  charity:  out  of  a  pure 
:,  and  of  a  good  conscience, and  ol  faith  unfeigned.  1  Cor.  xiii. 
4.  Charity  suffereth  long,  and  is  kind;  charity  envieth  not;  charity 
vaunteth  not  itself,  is  not  puffed  up,  v.  c.  Doth  not  behave  itself 
lemly,  seeketh  not  her  own,  is  not  easily  provoked,  thinketh  no 
f  .,  v.  6.  Rejoiceth  not  in  iniquity,  but  rejoiceth  in  the  truth: 
v.  7.  ,  {[  things,  believeth  ail  thing"-,  bopeth  all  things,  en- 

dureth  all  thinj 

81.  v  1  Kings  xxi.4.  And  Ahab  came  into  bis  bouse,  heavy  and 

I,  i"<..uisc  of  the  word  which  Naboth  the  [ezreelite  had 

spoken  to  him  :   lor  he  had  said,  1  will  not  give  thee  tut  inheritance 

of  my  fathers:  and  he  laid  him  down  upon  his  bed,  and  turned 


"The  Shorter  Catechism,  4  *  * 

or  grieving  at  the  good  of  our  neighbour,™  and 
all  inordinate  motions  and  affeclions  to  any  thine 
that  is  his.*  ° 

Q^    82.   Is  any  man  able  perfe&ly  to  keep  the 
command?nents  of  God? 

A.  No  mere  man  since  the  fall,  is  able  in  this 
life,    perfectly   to  keep    the  commandments   of 
God,y  but  doth  daily  break  them,   in  thouo-ht 
word  and  deed.s  to 

away  his  face,  and  would  eat  no  bread.  Esther  v  1*  Yet  all  this 
availeth  me  nothing,  so  long  as  I  see  Mordecai  the  jew 'sitting  at  the 
lungs  gate.  1  Cor.  x.  10.  Neither  murmur  ye,  as  some  of  them 
also  murmured,  and  were  destroyed  of  the  destroyer 

w  Gal  v.  26.  Let  us  not  be  desirous  of  vain 'glory,  provoking 
one  another,  envying  one  another.  James  iii.  14.  But  if  ye  have 
bitter  envying  and  strife  in  your  hearts,  glory  not,  and  lie  not  against 
the  truth  v.  16.  For  where  envying  and  strife  is,  there  is  confu- 
sion, and  every  evil  work. 

{    u-?01^/"' ?\  ^Yhat  shaI1  we  say  then?     Isthelawsin?     God 
forbid.     Nay,  I  had  not  known  sin,  but  bv  the  law;  for  I  had  not 
known  hist,  except  the  law  had  said,  Thou  shalt  not  covet      v  8 
Hut  sin  taking  occasion  by  the  commandment,  wrought  in  me'all 
manner  of  concupiscence.    For  without  the  law  sin  was°dead.   Rom 

?n  %u°V  ??'  T  °U  ^  n0t  COmmk  adultery,  Thou  shalt  not 
kill  Thou  shalt  not  steal,  Thou  shalt  not  bear  false  witness  Thou 
shalt  not  covet;  and  if  there  be  any  other  commandment,  it  is  brief- 
ly comprehended  in  this  saying,  namely,  Thou  shalt  love  thy  new- 
born-as  thyself.  _  Deut  v  2r.  Neither  shalt  thou  desire  thy  neifh- 
bour  s  wife,  neither  shalt  thou  covet  thy  neighbour's  house,  1m 
field,  or  his  man-servant,  or  his  maid-servant,  his  ox,  or  his  ass,  or 
any  thing  that  is  thy  neighbour's.  ' 

H  J?'  y  ?Cd7i-i  20,uF°r  there  Is  not  a  J'ust  man  «P™  earth,  that 
doth  good,  and  s.nneth  not.  1  John  i.  8.  If  we  sav  that  we  have  no 
sin,  we  deceive  ourselves,  and  the  truth  is  not  in  us.  v.  10  If  we 
say  that  we  have  not  sinned,  we  make  him  a  liar,  and  his  word  is 
rot  in  us  Gal.  vt7  For  the  flesh  lotted,  against  the  spirit,  and 
the  Spint  against  the  flesh:  and  these  are  contrary  the  one  to  the 
other;  so  that  ye  cannot  do  the  things  that  ye  would. 

2  Gen.  vi.  5    And  God  saw  thatthe  wickedness  of  man  was  areat 
m  the  earth   and  that  every  imagination  of  the  thoughts  of  his  heart 
was  only  evil  continually.     Gen.  viii.  a , .  And  the°Lord  smelld 
sweet  savour;  and  the  Lord  said  in  his  heart,  I  will  not  S  curse 

wf  °U  ?7  "T  f°r  ma"'S  Sake;  for  the  Pagination  of  man's 
heart  »  evil  from  his  youth;  neither  will  I  again  smite  any  more 


*y 


¥ be  Shorter  Catechisnt. 


Q^  83.  Are  all  transgressions  oj  the  law  e quails 
heinous  f 

A.  Some  sins  in  themselves,  and  by  reason  cf 
several  aggravations,  are  more  heinous  in  the 
sio-htofGod  than  others. # 

o 

Q^  84.   What  doth  every  sin  deserve? 

A.  Every  sin  deserveth  God's  wrath  and  curse 
both  in  this  life,  and  that  which  is  to  comei 

(3^85.  What  doth  God  require  of  us  that  we 
may  escape  his  wrath  and  curse  due  to  us  for  sin  ? 

A.  To  escape  the  wrath  and  curse  of  God  dufe 
to  us  for  sin,  God  requireth  of  us  faith  in  Jesus 

every  thing  living  as  I  have  done.  Rom.  Hi.  9.  What  then  ?  are  we 
better  than  they?  No,  in  no  wise:  for  we  have  before  proved  both 
Jews  and  Gentiles,  that  they  are  all  under  sin — and  so  on  to  verse 
21.  Jam.  iii.  2.  For  in  many  things  we  offend  all.  Ifany  man  of- 
fend not  in  word,  the  same  is  a  per  feci  man,  and  able  also  to  bridle 
the  whole  body — and  so  on  to  vtrse  1  3. 

83.  a  Ezek.  viii.  6.  He  said  furthermore  unto  me,  Son  of  man, 
seest  thou  what  they  do  ?  even  the  great  abominations  that  the  house 
of  Israel  committeth  here,  that  I  should  go  far  off'  from  my  sanctua- 
ry, but  turn  thee  yet  again,  and  thou  shalt  see  greater  abominations. 
v.  13.  He  said  also  unto  me,  Turn  thee  yet  again,  and  thou  shalt 
see  greater  abominations  that  they  do.  v.  15.  Then  said  he  unto  me, 
Ha^t  thou  bten  this,  O  son  of  man?  turn  thee  yet  again,  and  thou 
shalt  sec  greater  abominations  than  these.  1  John  v.  16.  If  any  man 
see  his  brother  sin  a  sin  which  is  not  unto  death,  he  shall  ask,  and 
he  shall  give  him  life  for  them  that  sin  not  unto  death.  There  is  a 
sin  unto  death  :  L  do  not  say  that  he  shall  pray  for  it.  Psal.  l\x\  iii. 
i  7.  And  they  sinned  yet  more  against  l.im.  by  provoking  the  Most 
High  in  the  wilderness,  v.  32.  For  all  this  they  sinned  stiii :  and  be- 
lieved not  for  his  wondrous  works,  v.  56.  Yet  thev  tempted  and 
provoked  the  most  high  God,  and  kept  not  his  testimonies. 

84.  b  Eph.  v.  6.  Let  no  man  deceive  you  with  vain  words:  for 
because  of  these  things  cometh  the  wrath  of  God  upon  the  children 
of  disobedience.  Gal.  iii.  10.  For  as  many  as  are  of  the  works  of  the 
law  nre  under  the  curse:  for  it  is  written,  Cursed  is  every  one  that 
continueth  not  in  all  things  which  are  written  in  the  book  of  the  law 
to  do  tlu  in.  Lam.  iii.  39.  Wherefore  doth  a  living  man  complain, 
a  man  for  the  punishment  ol   his  sins?   Mat.  x.w.  41.  Then  shall  he 

Ko  unto  them  on  the  left  hand,  Depart  from  me,  ye  curbed,  u 
everlasting  lire,  prepared  for  the  de\  il  and  his  angels. 


I3 he  Shorter  Catechism,  '  457 

Christ,  repentance  unto  life,<r  with  the  diligent 
use  of  all  the  outward  means  whereby  Christ 
communicateth  to  us  the  benefits  of  redemption.^ 

Qo   86.   What  is  faith  in  Jesus  Christ  ? 

A.  Faith  in  Jesus  Christ  is  a  saving  grace,*? 
whereby  we  receive  and  rest  upon  him  alone  for 
salvation,  as  he  is  offered  to  us  in  the  gospel/* 

Q.   87.  What  is  repentance  unto  life? 

A.  Repentance  unto  life  is  a  saving  grace,g 

85.  c  A&sxx,  21.  Testifying  both  to  the  Jews,  and  also  to  the 
Greeks,  repentance  toward  God,  and  faith  toward  our  Lord  Jesus 
Christ. 

d  Prov.  ii.  1.  My  son,  if  thou  wilt  receive  my  words,  and  hide 
iny  commandments  with  thee;  v.  2.  So  that  thou  incline  thine  ear 
unto  wisdom,  and  apply  thine  heart  to  understanding:  v.  3.  Yea, 
if  thou  criest  after  knowledge,  and  liftest  up  thy  voice  for  under- 
standing :  v.  4.  If  thou  seekest  her  as  silver,  and  searchest  for  her,  as 
for  hid  treasures :  v.  5.  Then  shalt  thou  understand  the  fear  of  the 
Lord;  and  find  the  knowledge  of  God.  Prov.  viii.  33.  Hear  in™ 
struclion,  and  be  wise,  and  refuse  it  not.  v.  34.  Blessed  is  the  man 
that  heareth  me,  watching  daily  at  my  gates,  waiting  at  the  posts  of 
my  doors,  v.  35.  For  whoso  findeth  me,  findeth  life,  and  shall  ob- 
tain favour  of  the  Lord.  v.  36.  But  he  that  sinneth  against  me, 
wrongeth  his  own  soul ;  all  they  that  hate  me,  love  death.  Isa.  lv.  jf* 
Incline  your  ear,  and  come  unto  me:  hear,  and  your  soul  shall  live; 
and  I  will  make  an  everlasting  covenant  with  you,  even  the  sure 
mercies  of  David. 

86.  e  Heb.  x.  39.  But  we  are  not  of  them  who  draw  back  unto 
perdition  ;  but  of  them  that  believe  to  the  saving  of  the  soul. 

f  John  i.  12.  But  as  many  as  received  him,  to  them  gave  he  powet1 
to  become  the  sons  of  God,  even  to  them  that  believe  on  his  name. 
Isa.  xxvi.  3.  Thou  wilt  keep  him  in  perfect  peace,  whose  mind  is 
stayed  on  thee:  because  he  trusteth  in  thee.  v.  4.  Trust  ye  in  the 
Lord  for  ever:  for  in  the  Lord  Jehovah  is  everlasting  strength. 
Phil.  hi.  9.  And  be  found  in  him,  not  having  mine  own  riahteous- 
ness  which  is  of  the  law,  but  that  which  is  through  the  faith  of 
Christ,  the  righteousness  which  is  of  God  by  faith,  Gal.  ii.  16, 
Knowing  that  a  man  is  not  justified  by  the  works  of  the  law,  but  by 
the  faith  of  Jesus  Christ,  even  we  have  believed  in  Jesus  Christ ;  that 
we  might  be  justified  by  the  faith  of  Christ,  and  not  by  the  works  of 
the  law  ;  for  by  the  works  of  the  law  shall  no  flesh  be  justified. 

87.  g  Acts  xi.  18.  When  they  heard  these  things,  they  held  their 
peace,  and  glorified  God,  saying,  Then  hath  God  also  to  the  Gen- 
tiles granted  repentance  unto  life, 

3M 


4 5  8  The  Shorter  Catechism. 

whereby  a  sinner,  out  of  a  true  sense  of  his  sin,£ 
and  apprehension  of  the  mercy  of  God  in  Christ,/ 
doth,  with  grief  and  hatred  of  his  sin,  turn  from 
it  unto  God,/'  with  full  purpose  of,  and  endea- 
vour after,  new  obedience./ 

Q^88.  What  are  the  outward  means  whereby 
Christ  communicate th  to  us  the  benefits  of  redemp- 
tion ? 

A.  The  outward  and  ordinary  means  whereby 
Christ  communicateth  to  us  the  benefits  of  re- 
demption, are  his  ordinances,  especially  the  word, 


h  Acts  ii.  37.  Now  when  they  heard  this,  they  were  pricked  in 
their  heart,  and  said  unto  Peter,  and  to  the  rest  of  the  apostles,  Men 
and  brethren,  what  shall  we  do  ?  v.  38.  Then  Peter  said  unto  them, 
Repent,  and  be  baptized  every  one  of  you  in  the  name  of  Jesus 
Christ,  for  the  remission  of  sins,  and  ye  shall  receive  the  gift  of  the 
Holy  Ghost. 

1  Joel  ii.  12.  Therefore  also  now,  saith  the  Lord,  turn  ye  even 
to  nic  with  all  your  heart,  and  with  fasting,  and  with  weeping,  and 
with  mourning.  Jer.  iii.  22.  Return,  ye  backsliding  children,  and 
I  will  heal  your  backslidings :  behold,  we  come  unto  thee,  for  thou 
art  the  Lord  our  God. 

k  Jer.  xxxi.  18.  I  have  surely  heard  Ephraim  bemoaning  himself 
thus,  Thou  hast  chastised  me,  and  I  was  chastised,  as  a  bullock  un- 
accustomed to  the  yoke ;  turn  thou  me,  and  I  shall  be  turned  ;  for 
thou  ait  the  Lord  my  God.  v.  19.  Surely  after  that  I  was  turned,  I 
repented,  and  after  that  I  was  instructed,  I  smote  upon  my  thigh : 
1  was  ashamed,  yea,  even  confounded,  because  I  did  bear  the  re- 
proach of  my  youth.  Ezek.  xxxvi.  31.  Then  shall  ye  remember 
your  own  evil  ways,  and  your  doings  that  were  not  good,  and  shall 
I:  •  yourselves  in  your  own  sight,  for  your  iniquities,  and  for  your 
abominations. 

/  2  Cor.  vii.  1 1.  For  behold,  this  self  same  thing,  that  ye  sorrowed 
after  a  godly  sort,  what  carefulness  it  wrought  in  you,  yea,  what 
clearing  of  yourselves,  yea,  what  indignation,  yea,  what  tear,  yea, 
what  vehement  desire,  yea,  what  zeal,  yea,  what  revenge!  in  all 
thing  ye  have  approved  yourselves  to  be  clear  in  this  matter.  Isa.  i. 
16.  Wash  ye,  make  you  clean ;  put  away  the  evil  of  your  doings  from 
before  mine  eves;  cease  to  do  evil,  v.  7.  Learn  to  do  well;  seek 
jugdment,  relieve  the  oppressed,  judge  the  fatherless,  plead  for  the 
widow. 


The  Shorter  Catechism. 


459 


sacraments,  and  prayer;  all  which  are  made  ef- 
fectual to  the  elecl  for  salvation.^ 

Q.  89.  How  is  the  word  made  effectual  to  sal- 
vation f 

A.  The  Spirit  of  God  maketh  the  reading,  but 
especially  the  preaching,  of  the  word,  an  effectual 
means  of  convincing  and  converting  sinners,  and 
of  building  them  up  in  holiness  and  comfort, 
through  faith,  unto  salvations 

88.  m  Mat.  xxviii.  iQ.  Go  ye  therefore  and  teach  all  nations,  bap- 
tizing them  in  the  name  of  the  Father,  and  of  the  Son,  and  of  the 
Holy  Ghost:  v  20.  Teaching  them  to  observe  all  things  whatsoever 

end  of  ZmmZueiy0U  '■  aA"i  ]°'  *  am  With  >'ou  ^ay  even  unto  the 
end  of  the  world.  Amen.  Acts  ii.  42.  And  they  continued  stedfastly 
in  the  apostles' doftrine  and  fellowship,  and  in  breaking  of  bread! 
i.  thetS"'     ^     v^u^  C°ntinuinS  dail>'  w«h  one  accord 

Seat  wfrh  Ph  and  bTkU1^  bread  fr°m  h0USe  to  house> did  «t  their 
meat  with  gladness  and  singleness  of  heart,  v.  47.  Praisina  God  and 

havmg  favour  with  all  the  people.  And  the  Lotd  addeTtolheSurch 
daily  such  as  should  be  saved.  "m«.u 

dis?in^vNeh'/Hi'  8'  u°  they  read  in  the  book'  in  the  ^w  of  God 
read?™  7'  T  r  ^  the  se"se>  and  caused  them  to  understand  the 

that  bdieveth  no;"1"'  *4'  ^V' *"  f^^'  and  there  COme  in  ™e 
,,Lh If   11  '  °r  A°n^  unlearned>  he  is  convinced  of  all,  he  is 

S  e§s  f„d  A  fin25'  ,And  thUS  *£  */  SeCretS  of  his  »**"  made  ma- 
KDort  th"r  C J !  " g  d°Wn,UP°n  h's  face>  he  *M  worship  God,  and 
report  that  God  is  in  you  of  a  truth.     Afts  xxvi.  1 8.  To  open  their 

ofsk"  untornHthe  h  'T  d3rkneSS  t0  ^  and  fr°m  ^  PoX 
heritance  "1       /.       '  ^J^  reCdve  forg5v™ess  of  sins,  and  in- 

Pa  xix  Thg  --  W  ?  i-  *?  ^^  ^  fahh  th3t  »  in  me- 
rsai.  xix.  8.  The  statutes  of  the  Lord  are  right,  rejoicing  the  heart- 

the  commandment  of  the  Lord  is  pure,  enlfe%thelyt  l£ 
word  nf  h  '  brue  huren'  J  commend  you  to  God,  and  to  the 

word  of  his  grace,  which  is  able  to  build  you  up,  and  to  aive  vou 
a     inheritance  among  all  them  which  are  sanctified.     Rom.  J.L 

lea n !  Z7  T  *'"?  Wr!tten  af°retime'  vvere  ™"  for  our 
1°  \  I   uS  ;     u  C  WC'  thr0USn  Patience  and   comfort  of  the  scriptures 

knt  n  ^r  hT     *  Tim"  HL  «+  And  that  from  a  child    houh2 

sa"vaIL  th  7  K?5*S.  Whkh  are  abk  to  make  thee  ^se  unto 
salva  on,  througn  faith  which  is  in  Christ  Jesus,     v.  ,6.  All  scrip! 

2 r  r »SofnfS  c"SP1S-IOn  f  G°d'  3nd  »  Pr°fitable  ^  S, 
ior  reproof,  for  correction,  for  instruction  in  righteousness-  v   1 - 

good\tkmsanRom0d  ""'If  *?*  ^^IvfunSdunVoVli 
good  a  orks.     Rom.  x.  ,  3.  For  whosoever  shall  call  upon  the  name 


4-6o  7 he  Shorter  Catechism. 

Q^  90.  How  is  the  ivor d  to  be  read  and  heard, 
that  it  may  become  effectual  to  salvation? 

A.  That  the  word  may  become  effectual  to 
salvation,  we  must  attend  thereunto  with  dili- 
gence^ preparation,/*  and  praver;^  receive  it 
with  faith  and  love  ;r  lay  it  in  our  hearts;!  and 
praclise  it  in  our  lives./ 

Q^9i.  Hozu  do  the  sacraments  become  effectual 
means  of  salvation? 

A.  The  sacraments  become  effectual  means  of 
Salvation*  not  from  any  virtue  in  them,  or  in 
him  that  doth  administer  them ;  but  only  by  the 

of  the  Lord,  shall  be  saved,  v.  14.  How  then  shall  they  call  on  him 
in  whom  they  have  not  believed  ?  and  how  shall  they  believe  in  him 
of  whom  they  have  not  heard  ?  and  how  shall  they  hear  without  a 
preacher?  v.  15.  And  how  shall  they  preach,  except  they  be  sent? 
as  it  is  written,  How  beautiful  are  the  feet  of  them  that  preach  the 
gospel  of  peace,  and  bring  glad  tidings  of  good  things?  v.  16.  But 
they  have  not  all  obeyed  the  gospel.  For  Esaias  saith,  Lord,  who 
hath  believed  our  report?  v.  17.  So  then,  faith  cometh  by  hearing, 
and  hearing  by  the  word  of  God.  Rom.  i.  16.  For  I  am  not  ashamed 
of  the  go>pel  of  Christ  :  for  it  is  the  power  of  God  unto  salvation, 
to  every  one  that  believeth,  to  the  Jew  first,  and  also  to  the  Gree.'v. 

90.  0  Prov.  viii.  34.  Blessed  is  the  man  that  htareth  mr,  watching 
daily  at  my  gates,  waiting  at  the  posts  of  my  doors. 

ji  1  Peter  ii.  1.  "Wherefore,  laying  aside  all  malice,  and  all  guile, 
and  hypocrisies,  and  envies,  and  all  evil  speakings,  v.  2.  As  new 
l<orn  babe-,  dr.-ire  the  sincere  milk  of  the  word,  that  ye  may  grow 
thereby. 

fj  Psal.  cxix.  18.  Open  thou  mine  eyes  that  I  may  behold  won- 
drous things  out  of  thy  law.  w^ 

r  Heb.  iv.  2.  Fetf  unto  us  was  the  gospel  preached,  as  well  as  unto  ^ 
them:   but  the  word  preached  did  not  profit  them,   not  being  mixed 
with  faith  in  them  that  heard  it.     2  Thes.  ii.  10.  And  with  all  de- 
ceivableness  of  linfighteousness  in  them  that  perish :  because  they 
ed  not  tin-  love  of  the  truth,  that  they  might  be  saved. 

s  Psal.  o;ix.  1  1.  Thy  word  have  1  hid  in  mine  heart,  that  I  might 
not  sin  against  tine. 

/  Luke  viii.  1  -.  But  that  on  the  good  ground  are  they,  which  in 
an  hon<  a  and  good  heart,  having  heard  the  word,  keep  it, and  bring 
forth  fruit  with  patience.  James  i.25.  But  who,,)  lookerh  into  the 
perfect  law  of  liberty,  and  continueth  therein,  !      being  not  a  far* 


^tbc  Shorter  Catechism.  46 1 

blessing  of  Christ,^  and  the  working  of  his  Spirit 
in  them,  that  by  faith  receive  them.iy 

Q.   92.  What  is  a  sacrament? 
■    A.  A  sacrament  is  an  holy  ordinance  instituted 
by  Christ,  wherein,  by  sensible  signs,  Christ  and 
the  benefits  of  the  new  covenant,  are  represented, 
sealed,  and  applied  to  believers.* 

(^93.  Which  are  the  sacraments  of  the  New 
Testament  ? 

A.  The  sacraments  of  the  New  Testament 
are,  Baptism, jy  and  the  Lord's  supper. s 

get ful  hearer,  but  a  doer  of  the  work,  this  man  shall  be  blessed  in 
his  deed. 

91.  v  1  Peter  iii.  21.  The  like  figure  whereunto,  even  baptism 
doth  also  now  save  us,  (not  the  putting  away  of  the  filth  of  the  flesh, 
but  the  answer  of  a  good  conscience  towards  God)  bv  the  resurrec- 
tion of  Jesus  Christ.  Mat.  iii.  11.  I  indeed  baptize  you  with  wa- 
ter unto  repentance  ;  but  he  thatcometh  after  me  is  mightier  than  I, 
whose  shoes  I  am  not  worthy  to  bear:  he  shall  baptize  you  with  the 
Holy  phost,  and  with  fire,  i  Cor.  iii.  6.  I  have  planted,  Apollos 
watered,  but  God  gave  the  increase,  v.  7.  So  then,  neither  is  he 
that  planteth  any  thing,  neither  he  that  watereth  :  but  God  that  giv- 
erh  the  increase. 

w  1  Cor.  xii.  13.  For  by  one  Spirit  are  we  all  baptized  into  one 
body,  whether  we  be  Jews  or  Gentiles,  whether  we  be  bond  or 
free;  and  have  been  all  made  to  drink  into  one  Spirit. 

92.  x  Gen.  xvii.  7.  And  I  will  establish  my  covenant  between 
me  and  thee,  and  thy  seed  after  thee  in  their  generations,  for  an 
everlasting  covenant ;  to  be  a  God  unto  thee,  and  to  thy  seed  after 
thee.  v.  10.  This  is  my  covenant,  which  ye  shall  keep  between  me 
and  you,  and  thy  seed  after  thee  :  Every  man-child  among  vou  shall 

fbe  circumcised.  Exod.  xih  throughout,  i  Cor.  xi.  23.  Fori  have 
received  of  the  Lord,  that  which  also  I  delivered  unto  you,  That  the 
Lord  Jesus,  the  same  night  in  which  he  was  betrayed,  took  bread. 
v.  26.  For  as  often  as  ye  eat  this  bread,  and  drink  this  cup,  ye  do  shew 
the  Lord's  death  till  he  come. 

93.  y  Mat.  xxviii.  19.  Go  ye,  therefore,  and  teach  all  nations,  bap- 
tizing them  in  the  name  of  the  Father,  and  of  the  Son,  and  of  the 
Holy  Ghost. 

z  Mat.  xxvi.  26.  And  as  they  were  eating,  Jesus  took  bread  and 
blessed  it,  and  brake  it,  and  gave  it  to  the  disciples,  and  said,  Take, 
eat;  this  is  my  body.  v.  27.  And  he  took  the  cup,  and  gave  thanks, 
and  gave  it  to  them,  sayin«g,  Drink  ye  all  of  it:  v  28.  For  this  is 


462  The  Shorter  Catechism. 

CK_  94..  What  is  baptism? 

A.  Baptism  is  a  sacrament,  wherein  the  wash- 
ing with  water,  in  the  name  of  the  Father,  and 
of  the  Son,  and  of  the  Holy  Ghost,#  doth  signify 
our  ingrafting  into  Christ,  and  partak- 
ing of  the  benefits  of  the  covenant  of  grace,  ant] 
our  engagement  to  be  the  Lord's. £ 

Q^  95.  To  whom  is  baptism  to  be  administered? 

ul.  Baptism  is  not  to  be  administered  to  any 

that  are  out  of  the  visible  church,   till  they  pro- 

their  faith  in  Christ,  and  obedience  to  him  ;c 

but  the  infants  of  such  as  are  members  of  the 

visible  church  are  to  be  baptized.*/ 

Q^  96.   What  is  the  Lord's  supper? 

A.  The  Lord's  supper  is  a  saci  anient,  where - 

mv  blond  of  the  New  Testament  which  is  shed  for  many  for  the  re- 
n  ■    ion  ot  sins. 

94.  a  Mat.  xxviii.  19.    (See  in  letter  v.) 

6  Rom.  vi.  4.  Therefore  we  are  buried  with  him  by  baptism  into 

death  :  that  like  as  Christ  was  raised  up  from  the  dead  by  the  glory 

ot  the  Father,  even  so  we  also  should  walk  in  newness  of  life.  Gal. 

.  For  as  many  of  you  as  have  been  baptized  into  Christ,  have 

put  on  Ciirist. 

95.  c  Aels  viii.  56.  And  as  they  went  on  their  way,  they  came 
unto  a  certain  water  :  and  the  eunuch  said,  See,  here  is  water  ;  what 
doth  hinder  me  to  be  baptized  ?  v.  37.  And  Philip  said,  It  thou  be- 
lieves! with  all  thine  heart,  thou  mayest.  And  he  answered  and  said, 

ve  that  Jesus  Christ  is  the  Son   of  God.     Acts  ii.  38.  Then 

Peter  said  unto  them,  Repent,  and  be  baptized  every  one  of  you  in  the 

name  ot  JestlS  Christ,  tor  the  remission  ot  sins,  and  ye  shall  receive 

i  the  Holy  Ghost. 

d  Acts  ii.  38.  ber  before,     v.  39.  For  the  promise  is  unto  you, 

and  to  \our  children,  and  to  all  that  are  afar  off,  even  as  many  as  the 

our  God  shall  calk    Gen.  xvii.  10.  See  in  letter  .v.  Compared 

with  Col.  ii.  ii,  In  whom  also  ye  are  circumcised  with  the  circum- 

1  made  without  hands,  in  putting  off  the  body  ot  the  sins  of  the 

flash,  by  the  circumcision  ol  Christ  :   \ .  12.  Buried  with  him  in  bap- 

OU  are  risen  with  him,  through  the  faith  of  the 

>n  ot  God,  who  bath  raised  him  from  the  dead.      1  Cor.  vii. 

14.  For  the  unbelieving  hu  band  is  sanctified  by  the  wile,  and  the 

unbelieving  notified  by  the  husband;  your  chil- 

Wccn  unclean,   bul  now  ate  they  holy. 


fhe  Shorter  Catechism.  463 

*n,  by  giving  and  receiving  bread  and  wine,  ac- 
cording to  Christ's  appointment,  his  death  is 
shewed  forth ;  and  the  worthy  receivers  are,  not 
after  a  corporal  and  carnal  manner,  but  by  faith, 
made  partakers  of  his  body  and  blood,  with  all 
his  benefits,  to  their  spiritual  nourishment,  and 
growth  in  graces 

Q^  97.  tVhat  is  required  to  the  worthy  receiv- 
ing of  the  Lord's  supper? 

A.  It  is  required  of  them  that  would  worthily 
partake  of  the  Lord's  supper,  that  they  examine 
themselves  of  their  knowledge  to  discern  the 
Lord's  body ,f  of  their  faith  to  feed  upon  him,g 
of  their  repentance,/'  love,/ and  new  obedience;/: 

96.  e  1  Cor.  xi.  23.  For  I  have  received  of  the  Lord,  that  which 
also  I  delivered  unto  you,  that  the  Lord  Jesus,  the  same  night  in 
which  he  was  betrayed,  took  bread :  v.  24.  And  when  he  had  given 
thanks,  he  brake  it,  and  said,  Take,  eat;  this  is  my  body,  which  is 
broken  for  you:  this  do  in  remembrance  of  me.  v.  25.  After  the 
same  manner  also  he  took  the  cup,  when  he  had  supped,  saying, 
This  cup  is  the  new  testament  in  my  blood  :  this  do  ye,  as  oft  as  ye 
drink  it,  in  remembrance  of  me.  v.  26.  For  as  often  as  ye  eat  this 
bread,  and  drink  this  cup,  ye  do  shew  the  Lord's  death,  till  he  come. 
1  Cor.  x.  16.  The  cup  of  blessing  which  we  bless,  is  it  not  the  com- 
munion of  the  blood  of  Christ  ?  The  bread  which  we  break,  is  it  not 
the  communion  of  the  body  of  Christ. 

97./  1  Cor.  xi.  28.  But  let  a  man  examine  himself,  and  so  let 
him  eat  of  that  bread,  and  drink  of  that  cup.  v.  29.  For  he  that 
eateth  and  drinketh  unworthily,  eateth  and  drinketh  damnation  to 
himself,  not  discerning  the  Lord's  body. 

g  2  Cor.  xiii.  5.  Examine  yourselves,  whether  ye  be  in  the  faith; 
prove  your  own  selves:  know  ye  not  your  own  selves,  how  that 
Jesus  Christ  is  in  you,  except  ye  be  reprobates? 

h  1  Cor.  xi.  31.  For  if  we  would  judge  ourselves,  we  should  not 
be  judged. 

i  1  Cor.  x.  16.  The  cup  of  blessing  which  we  bless,  is  it  not  the 
communion  of  the  blood  of  Christ?  The  bread  which  we  break,  is 
it  not  the  communion  of  the  body  of  Christ?  v.  17.  For  we  being 
many  are  one  bread,  and  one  body :  for  we  are  all  partakers  of  that 
one  bread. 

k  1  Cor.  v.  7.  Purge  out  therefore  the  old  leaven,  that  ye  may  be 
a  new  lump,  as  ye  are  unleavened.    For  even  Christ  our  passover 


464  The  Shorter  Catechu.; 

lest  coming  unworthily,  they  cat  and  drink  judg* 
ment  to  themselves./ 

Q^  98.  //  'hat  is  prayer  ? 

A.  Pruver  is  an  offering  up  of  our  desires  unto 
God,w  for  things  agreeable  to  his  will,*  in  the 
name  of  Christ,*?  with  confession  of  our  sins,^> 
and  thankful  acknowledgment  of  his  mercies.^ 

Q.  99.  What  rule  hath  God  given  for  our  dt- 
region  in  prayer? 

Si.  The  whole  word  of  God  is  of  use  to  direct 
us  in  prayer  \r  but  the  special  rule  of  direction  is 
that  form  of  prayer  which  Christ  taught  his  dis- 
ciples, commonly  called,   The  Lord's  prayer. s 

h  sacrificed  for  Us.  v.  8.  Therefore  let  us  keep  the  feast,  not  with 
old  leaven,  neither  with  the  leaven  of  malice  and  wickedness;  but 
with  the  unleavened  bread  of  sincerity  and  truth. 

/  1  Cor.  i.  28,  29.   (See  in  letter/'.) 

98.  fk  Psal.  lxii.  8.  Trust  in  him  at  all  times:  ye  people,  pour 
out  your  heart  before  him  :  God  is  a  refuge  for  us.     Selah. 

n    1  John  v.  14.  And  thii>  is  the  confidence  that  we  have  in  him, 
ii  we  ask  any  thing  according  to  his  will,  he  heareth  us. 

'■  John  svi.  23.  A\m\  in  that  day  ye  shall  ask  me  nothing:  Verilv, 
verily  1  say  unto  you,  Whatsoever  ye  shall  ask  the  Father  in  my 
name,  he  wiil  give  it  you. 

Ji  I'sal.  xxxii.  J.  i  acknowledged  my  sin  unto  thee,  and  mine 
iniquity  have  J  not  hid:  I  said,  1  will  confess  my  transgression; 
>  the  Lord:  and  thou  fdrgavest  the  iniquity  of  my  sin.  Selah. 
v.  6.  For  this  shall  every  one  that  is  godly  pray  unto  thee,  in  a 
time  when  thou  mayest  be  found;  surely  in  the  lloods  of  great  wa- 
ters, they  shall  not  come  nigh  unto  him.  Dan.  ix.4.  And  I  prayed 
unto  the  Lord  my  God,  and  marie  my  confession,  and  said,  O  Lord, 
the  great  and  dread! ul  God,  keeping  the  covenant  and  mercy  to 
them  that  love  him,  and  to  them  that  keep  his  commandments. 

q  Phil.  iv.  6.  Be  careful  tor  nothing  :  but  in  every  thing,  bj  prayer 
and  supplication  with  thanksgiving,  let  your  requests  be  made  known 
unto  ( 

1  John  v.  14.   And  this  is  thr  confidence  that  we  have  in' 
him,  that  ifwt  a  k  any  thing  according  to  hi-,  will,  he  bearet 

f.  \i.  <;,  10,  11,  12,  15.  After  this  manner  therefore  pray  ye, 
Our  Fatfa  with  Luke  xi.  2,  3,4.     And  he  ?ai<* 

onto  them,  when  ye  pray,  say,  Our  Father,  ' 


The  Shorter  Catechism.  465 

Q.  100.  What  doth  the  preface  of  the  Lord's 
prayer  teach  us  f 

A.  The  preface  of  the  Lord's  prayer  (which  is, 
Our  Father  which  art  in  heaven  J )  teacheth  us  to 
draw  near  to  God  with  all  holy  reverence  and 
confidence,  as  children  to  a  Father  able  and 
ready  to  help  us  ;v  and  that  we  should  pray  with, 
and  for  others.w 

Q^  1  o  1 .  What  do  we  pray  for  in  the  first  peti- 
tion f 

A.  In  the  first  petition  (which  is,  Hallowed  be 
thy  name,x)  we  pray,  That  God  would  enable  us 
and  others  to  glorify  him  in  all  that  whereby  he 
maketh  himself  known  ;y  and  that  he  would  dis- 
pose all  things  to  his  own  glory.s 

Q.  102.  What  do  we  pray  for  in  the  second  pe- 
tition ? 

A.  In  the  second  petition  (which  is,  Thy  king- 
dom come,a)  we  pray,  That  Satan's  kingdom  may 
be  destroyed  ;£  and  that  the  kingdom  of  grace 

100.  t  Mat.  vi.  9. 

•v  Rom.  viii.  15.  For  ye  have  not  received  the  spirit  of  bondage 
again  to  fear;  but  ye  have  received  the  Spirit  of  adoption,  whereby 
we  cry,  Abba,  Father.  Luke  xi.  13.  If  ye  then,  being  evil,  know 
how  to  give  good  gifts  unto  your  children:  how  much  more  shall 
your  heavenly  Father  give  the  holy  Spirit  to  them  that  ask  him? 

w  Acts  xii.  5.  Peter  therefore  was  kept  in  prison;  but  prayer  was 
made  without  ceasing  of  the  church  unto  God  for  him.  1  Tim.  ii. 
1.  I  exhort,  therefore,  that  first  of  all,  supplications,  prayers,  inter- 
cessions, and  giving  of  thanks,  be  made  for  all  men :  v.  2.  For  kings, 
and  for  all  that  are  in  authority ;  that  we  may  lead  a  quiet  and  peace- 
able life  in  all  godliness  and  honesty. 

101.  x  Mat.  vi.  9. 

y  Psal.  Ixvii.  2  That  thy  way  may  be  known  upon  earth,  thy 
saving  health  among  all  nations.  v»  3.  Let  the  people  praise  thee, 
O  God  ;  let  all  the  people  praise  thee. 

z  Psal.  lxxxiii.  throughout. 

102.  a  Mat.  vi.  10. 

b  Psal.  lxviii.  1.  Let  God  arise,  let  his  enemies  be  scattered  :  let 
them  also  that  hate  him  flee  before  him.     v.  18.  Thou  hast  ascended 

3N 


466  the  Shorter  C ate  chum. 

mav  be  advanced,*:  ourselves  and  others  brought 
into  it,  and  kept  in  it;<:/  and  that  the  kingdom  of 
glorv  mav  he  hastened.* 

Q^  103.  J  J 'hat  do  iv  e  pray  for  in  the  third  pe- 
tition f 

A,  In  the  third  petition  (which  is,  thy  will 
be  done  m  earth,  as  it  is  in  heaven,/)  we  pray, 
That  God,  by  his  grace,  would  make  us  able 
and  willing  to  know,  obey,  and  submit  to  his 
will  in  all  things^  as  the  angels  do  in  heaven./^ 


en  high;  thou  hast  led  captivity  captive;  thou  hast  received  gifts  fof 
men ;  yea,  for  the  rebellious  also,  that  the  Lord  God  might  dwell 
among  them. 

c  Rev.  xii.  10.  And  I  heard  a  loud  voice  saying  in  heaven,  Now 
is  come  salvation  and  strength,  and  the  kingdom  of  our  God,  and 
the  power  of  his  Christ :  for  the  accuser  of  our  brethren  is  cast  down, 
which  accused  them  before  our  God  day  and  night,  v.  11.  And 
they  overcame  him  by  the  blood  of  the  Lamb,  and  by  the  word  of 
their  testimony;  and  they  loved  not  their  lives  unto  the  death. 

d  2  Thes.  iii.  1.  Finally,  brethren,  pray  for  us,  that  the  word  of 
the  Lord  may  have  free  course,  and  be  glorified  even  as  it  is  with 
you.     Rom.  x.  1.  Brethren,  my  heart's  desire  and  prayer  to  God  for 

•_1  is,  that  they  might  be  saved.  John  xvii.  9.  I  pray  for  them  : 
1  prav  not  for  the  world,  but  for  them  which  thou  hast  given  me, 
ior  they  are  thine,  v.  20.  Neither  pray  I  for  these  alone,  but  for 
them  also  which  shall  believe  on  me  through  their  word. 

e  Rev.  xxii.  20.  He  which  testifieth  these  things  saith,  Surely  I 
come  quickly.     Amen.     Even  so,  come,  Lord  Jesus. 
103.  f  Mat.  vi.  10. 

g  Psal.  lxvii.  throughout.     Psal.  cxix.  36.  Incline  my  heart  unto 
thy  testimonies,  and  not  to  covetousness.     Mat.  xxvi.  39.  And  he 

I  a  little  further,  and  fell  on  his  face,  and  prayed,  saying,  O  my 
Father,  if  it  be  possible,  let  this  cup  pass  from  me  :  nevertheless,  not 
as  I  will,  but  as  thou  wilt.  2  Sam.  xv.  25.  And  the  king  said  unto 
Zadok,  Carry  back  the  ark  of  God  into  the  city  :  if  I  shall  find  fa- 
vour in  the  eyes  of  the  Lord,  he  will  bring  me  again,  and  shew  me 
both  it,  and  his  habitation.  Job  i.  21.  And  (Job)  said,  Naked  came 
I  out  of  my  mother's  womb,  and  naked  shall  I  return  thither  :  the 
Lord  gave,  and  the  Lord  hath  taken  away  ;  blessed  be  the  name  of 
the  Lord. 

h  P»al.  ciii.  20.  Bless  the  Lord,  ye  his  angels,  that  excel  in  strength, 

.io  his  commandments,  hearkening  unto  the  voice  of  his  word. 


*the  Shorter  Catechism,  467 

Q^  104.  IVJjat  do  iv  e  pray  for  in  the  fourth  pe- 
tition ? 

A.  In  the  fourth  petition  (which  is,  Give  us 
this  day  our  daily  breadj)  we  pray,  That  of  God's 
free  gift  we  may  receive  a  competent  portion  of 
the  good  things  of  this  life,  and  enjoy  his  blessino- 
with  them.>6 

Q^  105.  What  do  we  pray  for  in  the  fifth  peti- 
tion f 

A.  In  the  fifth  petition  (which  is,  Andfor 
us  our  debts,  as  we  forgive  our  debtors  J)  we  prav, 
That  God,  for  Christ's  sake,  would  freely  pardon 
all  our  sins  ;m  which  we   are  the  rather  encou- 

v.  21.  Bless  ye  the  Lord,  all  ye  his  hosts,  ye  ministers  of  his  that  do 
his  pleasure. 

j  04  i  Mat.  vi.  11, 

k  Prov.  xxx.  S.  Remove  far  from  me  vanity  and  lies ;  give  me 
neither  poverty,  nor  riches ;  feed  me  with  food  convenient  for  me  ; 
v.  9.  Lest  I  be  full,  and  deny  thee,  and  say,  Who  is  the  Lord?  or 
lest  I  be  poor,  and  steal,  and  take  the  name  of  my  God  in  vain. 
Gen.  xxviii.  20.  And  Jacob  vowed  a  vow,  saving,  If  God  will  be 
with  me,  and  will  keep  me  in  this  way  that  I  go,  and  will  give  me 
bread  to  eat,  and  raiment  to  put  on.  1  Tim.  iv.  4.  For  every  crea- 
ture of  Gci  is  good,  and  nothing  to  be  refused,  if  it  be  rece: 
frith  thanksgiving:  v.  5.  For  it  is  sanctified  bv  the  word  of  God  and 
prayer. 

105.  /  Mat.  vi.  is. 

m  Psal.  li.  1.  Have  mercy  upon  me,  O  God,  according  to  thv 
loving  kindness:  according  unto  the  multitude  of  thy  tender  mercies 
blot  out  my  transgressions,  v.  2.  Wash  me  throughly  from  mine 
iniquity,  and  cleanse  me  from  my  sin.  v.  7.  Purge  me  with  hyssop, 
and  I  shall  be  clean  :  wash  me,  and  I  shall  be  whiter  than  snow.  r. 
9.  Hide  thy  face  from  my  sins ;  and  blot  out  all  mine  in 
Dan.  ix.  17.  Xow,  therefore,  O  our  God,  hear  the  prayer  of  thy 
servant,    and  his  supplications,  and  cause  thy  face  I  :x>n 

thy  sanctuary  that  is  desolate,  for  the   L  sake.     v.  iS.  C" 

God,  incline  thine  ear,  and  hear ;  open  thine  eyes,  and  behold  our 
desolations,  and  the  city  which  is  called  by  thy  name  ;  for  we  do 
not  present  our  supplications  before  thee  for  our  righteousness,  but 
for  thv  great  mercies  v.  19.  O  Lord,  hear;  O  Lord,  forgive;  O 
Lord,  hearken  and  do;  defer  not,  for  thine  own  sake.  O 
Ijr  thy  city  and  thy  people  are  called  by  thj  name. 


468  *fhe  Shorter  Catechism. 

raged  to  ask,  because  by  his  grace  we  are  enabled, 
from  the  heart,  to  forgive  others.** 

Q^  1 06.  IV hat  do  we  pray  for  in  the  sixth  pe- 
tition ? 

A.  In  the  sixth  petition  (which  is,  And  lead 
us  not  into  temptation,  but  deliver  us  from  evil,o) 
we  pray,  That  God  would  either  keep  us  from 
being  tempted  to  s'm,p  or  support  and  deliver  us 
when  we  are  tempted. q 

Q^  107.  What  doth  the  conclusion  of  the  Lord' 's 
prayer  teach  us  f 

A.  The  conclusion  of  the  Lord's  prayer  (which 
is,  For  thine  is  the  kingdom,  and  the  power,  and 
the  glory,  for  ever,  Amcn,r)  teacheth  us,  to  take 
our  encouragement  in  prayer  from  God   only,x 

«  Luke  x'1.4.  And  forgive  us  our  sins:  for  we  also  forgive  every 
one  that  is  indebted  to  us. — Mat.  xviii.  35.  So  likewise  shall  my  hea- 
venly Father  do  also  unto  you,  ii  ye  from  your  hearts  forgive  not 
every  one  his  brother  their  trespasses. 

106.  0  Mat.  vi.  13. 

/i  Mat.  xxvi.41.  Watch  and  pray,  that  ye  enter  not  into  tempta- 
tion :  the  spirit  indeed  is  willing,  but  the  flesh  is  weak. 

q  2  Cor.  xii.  7.  And  lest  I  should  be  exalted  above  measure  through 
the  abundance  of  the  revelations,  there  was  given  to  me  a  thorn  in 
the  flesh,  the  messenger  of  Satan  to  buffet  me,  lest  I  should  be  ex- 
alted above  measure,  v.  8.  For  this  thing  I  besought  the  Lord 
thrice,  that  it  might  depart  from  me. 

107.  ;•  Mat.  vi.  13. 

s  Dan.  ix.  4.  And  I  praved  unto  the  Lord  my  God,  and  made  my 
confession,  and  said,  O  Lord,  the  great  and  dreadful  God,  keeping 
the  covenant  and  mercy  to  them  that  love  him,  and  to  them  that 
keep  his  commandments :  v.  7.  O  Lord,  righteousness  belongeth 
unto  thee,  but  unto  us  confusion  of  bees,  as  at  this  day:  10  the  men 
of  fuclah,  and  to  the  inhabitants  <>t  Jerusalem,  and  unto  all  Israel 
that  are  near,  and  that  are  alar  off,  through  all  the  countries  whither 
thou  hast  driven  them,  because  ol  their  trespass  that  they  have  tret- 
passed  against  thee.  v.  8.  O  Lord,  to  us  belongeth  confusion  of 
face,  to  our  kings,  to  our  princes,  and  to  our  lathers,  because  we 
have  sinned  against  thee.  v.  q.  To  the  Lord  our  God  belong  mer- 
cies and  forgivenesses,  though  we  have  rebelled  against  him.  v.  16. 
O  Lord,  according  to  all  thy  righteousness,  1  beseech  thee,  let  thine 
anger  and  thy  fury  be  turned  away  from  thy  city  Jerusalem,  thy  holy 


the  Shorter  Catechism. 


469 


and  in  our  prayers  to  praise  him,  ascribing  king- 
dom, power,  and  glory  to  him./  And,  in  testi- 
mony of  our  desire,  and  assurance  to  be  heard, 
we  sav,  Amen.v 

mountain:  because  for  our  sins,  and  for  the  iniquities  of  our  fathers, 
Jerusalem  and  thy  people  are  become  a  reproach  to  all  that  are  about 
us.  v.  1 7.  Now,  therefore,  O  our  God,  hear  the  prayer  of  thy  ser- 
vant, and  his  supplications,  and  cause  thy  face  to  shine  upon  thv 
sanctuary  that  is  desolate,  for  the  Lord's  sake.  v.  18.  O  my  God, 
incline  thine  ear,  and  hear;  open  thine  eyes,  and  behold  our  deso- 
lations, and  the  city  which  is  called  by  thy  name:  for  we  do  not  pre- 
sent our  supplications  before  thee  for  our  righteousness,  but  for  thy 
great  mercies,  v.  19.  O  Lord,  hear;  O  Lord,  forgive;  O  Lord, 
hearken  and  do ;  deter  not,  for  thine  own  sake,  O  my  God  :  for  thy 
city  and  thy  people  are  called  by  thy  name. 

/  1  Chron.  xxix.  10.  Wherefore  David  blessed  the  Lord  before  all 
the  congregation :  and  David  said,  Blessed  be  thou,  Lord  God.of  Israel 
our  father,  for  ever  and  ever.  v.  1 1.  Thine,  O  Lord,  is  the  great- 
ness, and  the  power,  and  the  glory,  and  the  victory,  and  the  ma- 
jesty:  for  all  that  is  in  the  heaven,  and  in  the  earth,  is  thirlt;  thine  is 
the  kingdom,  OLord,  and  thou  art  exalted  as  head  above  all.  v.  12. 
Both  riches  and  honour  come  of  thee,  and  thou  reignest  over  all; 
and  in  thine  hand  is  power  and  might,  and  in  thine  hand  it  is  to  make 
great,  and  to  give  strength  unto  all.  v.  13.  Now,  therefore,  our 
God,  we  thank  thee,  and  praise  thy  glorious  name. 

v  1  Cor.  xiv.  16.  Else  when  thou  shalt  bless  with  the  spirit,  how- 
shall  he  that  occupieth  the  room  of  the  unlearned  say,  Amen,  at  thy 
giving  of  thanks,  seeing  he  understandeth  not  what  thou  sayest? 
jRev.  xxii.  20.  He  which  testifieth  these  things,  saith,  Surely  I  come 
quickly.  Amen.  Even  so,  come,  Lord  Jesus,  v.  21.  The  grace  of 
pur  Lord  Jesus  Christ  be  with  you  all.     Amen. 


THE 


GOVERNMENT, 

DISCIPLINE, 


AND 


WORSHIP, 


ASSOCIATE-REFORMED  CHURCH 


IN 


NORTH-AMERICA. 


NEW-YORK: 
Printed  by  T.  &  J.  SWORDS,  No.  99  Pearl-ftreet. 

1799. 


Associate-Reformed  Synod  at  Greencastle, 
May  31,  1799. 

ACT, 

Approving  an  Overture  concerning  the  Government,  Discipline,  and 
Worship  of  the  Church. 

THE  SYNOD  having,  at  several  meetings,  maturely  consi- 
dered the  Overture  concerning  government,  discipline,  and 
worship,  which  was  published  by  them  in  the  year  one  thousand 
seven  hundred  and  ninety-six,  and  transmitted  to  the  different  Pres- 
byteries ;  and  the  said  Overture  having  undergone  sundry  alterations 
ami  amendments,  the  Synod  do  solemnly  receive  the  form  of  Presby- 
terial  church-government  therein  contained,  and  prepared  by  the  As- 
sembly of  Divines  at  Westminster,  as  being,  in  substance,  the  only 
form  oi  government  which  the  Lord  Jesus  hath  prescribed  to  his 
church.  They  do  also  receive  the  application  thereof  in  the  afore- 
said Overture,  both  to  church  discipline  and  to  the  other  practical 
parts  of  government,  as  sound  and  scriptural,  and  greatly  conducive 
to  the  edification  of  the  body  of  Christ.  And  they  do  likewise  re- 
ceive the  Directories  for  the  public  and  private  worship  of  God,  con- 
tained in  the  aforesaid  Overture,  as  holding  forth  such  things  as  are 
of  divine  institution  in  every  ordinance  of  worship.  And  they  do 
hereby  declare,  that  the  aforesaid  form  of  Presbyterial  church  go- 
vernment, with  its  said  applications,  and  the  Directories  for  the 
public  and  private  worship  of  God,  to  be  the  true  and  genuine 
government,  discipline,  and  worship  of  the  Associate-Reformed 
Church. 

By  order  of  Synod, 

JOHN   RIDDELL,  Moderator. 

EBENEZER  DICKEY,  Clk.  P.  T. 


THE 

GOVERNMENT,   &c. 
BOOK  I. 

Of  the  Government  of  the  Church. 


PREFACE. 

JESUS  Christ,  upon  whose  shoulders  the  government  ts, 
whose  name  is  called  Wonderful,  Counsellor,  The 
mighty  God,  The  everlasting  Father,  The  Prince  of 
Peace,a  of  the  increase  of  whose  government  and  peace 
there  shall  be  no  end,  who  sits  upon  the  throne  of  David, 
and  upon  his  kingdom,  to  order  it,  and  to  establish  it  with 
judgment  and  justice,  from  henceforth  even  for  ever;  hav- 
im  all  power  given  unto  him  in  heaven  and  in  earth  by  the 
Father,  who  raised  him  from  the  dead,  and  set  him  at 
his  own  right  hand,  far  above  all  principalities,  and  power  > 
and  might,  and  dominion,  and  every  name  that  is  named, 
not  only  in  this  world,  but  also  in  that  which  is  to  come> 
and  put  all  things  under  his  feet,  and  gave  him  to  be  the 
head  over  all  things  to  the  church,  which  is  his  body,  the 
fulness  of  him  that  fillet h  all  in  all:  He  being  ascended  up 
far  above  all  heavens,  that  he  might  fill  all  things,  received 
gifts  for  his  church,  and  gave  officers  necessary  for  the 
edification  of  his  church,  and perfecling  of  his  Saint s,b 

a  lea.  ix.  6,   7.  b  Mat.  xxviii.  18,  19,  20.     Eph.  i.  20,  21, 

22,  23.     Compared  with  Eph.  iv.  8,  11.  and  Psal.lxviii.  18. 

CHAP.  I. 

Of  the  Church,  its  Officers  and  Judicatories  in  general. 

Section  I.     Of  the  Church. 

1 .  r  ■  ^HERE  is  one  general  church  visible,  held  forth 
J^     in  the  New  Testament. a 
2.    The   miniftry,  oracles,   and   ordinances   of  thg 

a  1  Cor.  xii.  12,  13,  28. 
?0 


474  Of  Church-Government.  [Book  L 

New  Testament,  are  given,  by  Jesus  Christ,  to  the  ge- 
neral church  visible,  tor  the  gathering  and  perfecting 
of  it  in  this  life,  until  his  second  coming.^ 

3.  Particular  visible  churches,  members  of  the  ge- 
neral church,  are  also  held  forth  in  the  New  Testa- 
ment.<r  Particular  churches  are  made  up  of  visible 
saints,  viz.  of  such  as,  being  of  age,  profess  faith  in 
Christ,  and  obedience  to  Christ,  according  to  the  rules 
of  faith  and  life  taught  by  Christ  and  his  apostles  \  and 
of  their  children.  <•/ 

Sect.  II.     Of  the  Officers  of  the  Church. 

1.  Christ  hath  instituted  a  government,  and  gover- 
nors ecclesiastical  in  the  church.  To  that  purpose  the 
apostles  did  immediately  receive  the  keys  from  the  hand 
of  Jesus  Christ  ;  and  did  use  and  exercise  them  in 
all  the  churches  of  the  world  upon  all  occasions. 

2.  And  Christ  hath  since  continually  furnished  some 
in  his  church  with  gifts  ot  government,  and  with  com- 
mission to  execute  the  same  when  called  thereunto. 

3.  The  officers  which  Christ  hath  appointed  for  the 
edification  of  his  church,  and  the  perfecting  of  the 
saints,  are,  some  extraordinary,  as  apostles,  evangelists, - 
and  prophets,  which  are  ceased  :  others  ordinary  and 
perpetual,  as  pastors,  teachers,  and  other  church  go- 
vernors and  deacons. 

Sect.  III.     Of  Ecclesiastical  Assemblies. 

1 .  It  is  lawful  and  agreeable  to  the  word  of  God. 
that  the  church  be  governed  by  several  sorts  of  Assem- 
blies, which  are  composed  ot  pastors  and  other  eld. 
and  arc  Congregational,  Classical,  and  Syno- 
dic al. 

2.  The  government  of  the  church,  by  these  several 
sorts  of  Assemblies,  in  a  just  subordination  of  the  con- 
gregational to  the  classical  ;  and  of  the  classical  to  the 

6  1  Cor.  \ii.  28.    Eph.  iv.  4,  t.  with  10 — 16.       c  Gal.  i.  21,  22 
•4.   ii.  1.  J  A  .39,41.      i  Cor.  i.  2.   with  2  Cur 

ix.  13.    I  Cor.  vii.  14.     Rom.  \i.  ifr.     Mark  .\.  14.. 


Pastors. 


473 


synodical assembly,  is  called Presbyterial  church- 
government;  and  is  the  true  and  only  form  of  go- 
vernment which  the  Lord  Jesus  Christ  hath  pre- 
scribed in  his  word. 

3.  The  power  which,  according  to  the  word  of 
God,  belongeth,  in  common,  to  all  the  judicatories  of 
the  church,  is — 

To  call  before  them  every  person  or  persons  under 
their  inspection,  whom  the  ecclesiastical  business  which 
is  before  them  doth  concern.* 

To  hear  and  determine  such  causes  and  differences 
as  do  orderly  come  before  them. 

To  dispense  .church  censures. 


CHAP.  II. 

Of  Church-Officers  in  particular. 
Sect.  I.     Pastors. 

THE  Pastor  is  an  ordinary  and  perpetual  officer  in 
the  church. a 
it  belongs  to  his  office, 

1.  To  pray  for  and  with  his  flock,  as  the  mouth  of 
the  people  unto  God.  Acts  vi.  2,  3,  4,  and  xx.  36. 
Where  preaching  and  prayer  are  joined  as  several  parts 
of  the  same  office.  The  office  of  the  elder,  (that  is  the 
pastor)  is  to  pray  for  the  sick  even  in  private,  to  Which 
a  blessing  is  especially  promised  ;i>  much  more,  there- 
fore, ought  he  to  perform  this  in  the  execution  of  his 
office,  as  a  part  thereof.^ 

2.  To  read  the  scriptures  publicly.  For  the  proof 
of  which  let  it  be  observed, 

1  ft.  That  the  Priests  and  Levitesin  the  Jewish  church 
were  trusted  with  the  public  reading  of  the  word.*/ 
2d.  That  the  ministers  of  the  gospel  have  as  ample 

*  Mat.  xviii.  1 5 — 20. 

a  Jer.  iii.iij.  b  James  v.  14,  15.  c  1  Cor.  xiv.  15.  </Dcutf 
xxxi.  9 — 11.     Neh.  viii.  1 — 3,  13. 


47 <j  Of  Church-Government.  [Book  I , 

a  charge  and  commission,  to  dispense  the  word,  as  well 
as  other  ordinances,  as  the  Priests  and  Levites  had  un- 
der the  law,  which  is  proved  from  Isaiah  Ixvi.  21.  Mat. 
xxiii.  34.  where  our  Saviour  entitleth  the  officers  of  the 
New  Testament,  whom  he  will  send  forth,  by  the  same 
names  of  the  teachers  of  the  old.  Which  propositions 
prove,  that  therefore  (the  duty  being  of  a  moral  naturej 
it  tolloweth  by  just  consequence,  that  the  public  read- 
ing of  the  scriptures  belongeth  to  the  Pastor's  office. 

3.  To  feed  the  flock,  by  preaching  of  the  word,  ac- 
cording to  which  he  is  to  teach,  convince,  reprove,  ex- 
hort, and  comfort. e 

4.  To  catechise,  which  is  a  plain  laying  down  the 
first  principles  of  the  oracles  of  God,/  or  of  the  doc- 
trine of  Christ ;  and  is  a  part  of  preaching. 

5.  To  administer  the  sacraments.^ 

6.  To  bless  the  people  from  God.  Numb.  vi.  23 — 
26.  with  Rev.  xiv.  5.  (where  the  same  blessings,  and 
persons  from  whom  they  come,  are  expressly  mention- 
ed) Isa.  Ixvi.  21.  where,  under  the  names  of  Priests 
and  Levites  to  be  continued  under  the  gospel,  are  meant 
evangelical  Pastors,  who  are  therefore  by  office  to  bless 
the  people.// 

7.  To  visit  his  people  from  house  to  house,  as  often 
as  may  consist  with  the  other  duties  of  his  office,  and 
the  situation  ot  the  people  among  whom  he  labours  ; 
but  ;n  closely  connected  congregations  it  ought  to  be  es- 
sayed once  every  year.  In  these  visitations  he  is  to  in- 
quire into  the  spiritual  condition  of  his  flock;  and  to 
give  them  such  counsel,  exhortation,  warning,  and  en- 
couragement, a*  they  may  respectively  need./ 

8.  To  take  care  of  the  poor./fc 

9.  And  he  hath  also  a  ruling  power  over  the  flock  as 
a  Pastor./ 


I  2  Tim.  Hi.  16,  17.    Tit.  i.  q.     f  Tfcb.  v.  12.      g  Mat.  xxviii. 
iq.     I  Cor.  xi.  23 — 25.  and  x.  26.       // Drut.  x.  8.     2  Cor.  xiii.  14. 
•    xx.  20.  k  Adts  iv.  34 — 37.     xi.  30.     Gal.  ii.  9,  10. 

/  1  Tim.  v.  17.    A£h  xx.  17,28.     Hcb.  xiii.  7,  17. 


Teacher  or  Doclor 


Sect.  II.     Teacher  or  Doctor. 


477 


i.  The  scripture  doth  hold  out  the  name  and  title 
of  teacher  as  well  as  the  pastor ,m 

2.  Who  is  also  a  minister  of  the  word,  as  well  as  the 
pastor,  and  hath  power  of  administration  of  the  sacra- 
ments. 

3.  The  Lord  having  given  different  gifts,  and  diverse 
exercises  according  to  these  gifts,  in  the  ministry  of  the 
word;;*  though  these  different  gifts  may  meet  in,  and 
accordingly  be  exercised  by,  one  and  the  same  minister  \o 
yet,  where  there  are  several  ministers  in  the  same  con- 
gregation, they  may  be  designed  to  several  employ- 
ments, according  to  the  different  gifts  in  which  each  of 
them  doth  most  excel  :p  And  he  that  doth  more  excel 
in  exposition  of  scripture,  in  teaching  sound  doctrine, 
and  in  convincing  gainsayers,  than  he  doth  in  applica- 
tion, and  is  accordingly  employed  therein,  may  be  cal- 
led a  teacher  or  doctor.  Nevertheless,  where  there  is 
but  one  minister  in  a  particular  congregation,  he  is  to 
perform,  so  far  as  he  is  able,  the  whole  work  of  the  mi- 
nistry.^ 

4.  A  teacher  or  doctor  is  of  most  excellent  use  in 
schools  and  universities;  as  of  old  in  the  schools  of  the 
prophets,  and  at  Jerusalem,  where  Gamaliel  and  others 
taught  as  doctors. 

5.  The  scripture  acknowledged  no  degrees  of  rank 
or  dignity  among  the  ministers  of  the  word  ;  but  hath 
established  them  in  a  perfect  equality  of  office  and  au- 
thority. The  names  of  pastor,  teacher,  bishop,  and 
presbyter,  are  but  different  names  for  one  and  the  same 
office.  The  distinction  of  superior  and  inferior  clergy, 
under  whatever  form  or  pretext  adopted,  is  highly  un- 
scriptural  and  antichristian.r 


m  1  Cor.  xii.  28.     Eph.  iv.  11.  n  Rom.  xii.  6 — S.     1  Cor. 

xii-  1 — 7-         0  1  Cor.  xiv.  3.     2  Tim.  iv.  2.     Tit.  i.  9.        //  See 
letter  c.     1  Peter  iv.  10,  11.  q  See  letter  p.  r  A&s  xx.  17. 

Kith  verse  28.     Phil.  i.  1.     Tit.  i,  5,  7. 


478  Of  Church-Government.  [Book  I. 

Sect.  III.     Other  Church-Governors. 

1.  As  there  were  in  the  Jewish  church  elders  of  the 
people  joined  with  the  Priests  and  Levites  in  the  go- 
vcrnment  of  the  church  ;s  so  Christ,  who  hath  instituted 
government,  and  governors  ecclesiastical  in  the  church, 
hath  furnished  some  in  his  church,  beside  the  minis- 
ters of  the  word,  with  gifts  for  government,  and  with 
commission  to  execute  the  same  when  called  thereunto  : 
who  are  to  join  with  the  minister  in  the  government  of 
the  church :/  which  officers  reformed  churches  com- 
monly call  Elders. 

2.  It  belongs  not  to  this  class  of  elders  to  preach  the 
word,  or  to  administer  the  sacraments;  but  as  far  as 
relates  to  the  government  of  the  church,  their  voice  in 
judicatories  is  equal  to  that  ot  the  preaching  presby- 
ters.;/ 

Sect.  IV.     Deacons. 

t.  The  scripture  doth  hold  out  deacons  as  distinct 
officers  in  the  church. v 

2.  Whose  office  is  perpetual. w  To  whose  office  it 
belongs  not  to  preach  the  word,  or  administer  the  sa- 
craments; or  to  join  in  the  government  of  the  church, 

it  chiefly  to  take  special  care  in  distributing  to  the 
necessities  of  the  poor. at 

ct.  V.     Of  Particular  Congregations, 

i .  It  i<  lawful  and  expedient  that  there  be  fixed  con- 
<ns;  that  is,  a  certain  company  of  Christians  to 
meet  in  one  assembly  ordinarily  for  public  worship. 
When  believers  multiply  to  such  a  number  that  they 
conveniently  meet  in  one  place,  it  is  lawful  and 
exj  edient  that  they  should  be  divided  into  distinct  and 
fixed   congregations,  for  the  better  administration  of 


:>.  xix.  8 — ic.  /  Rom.  xii.  7,  8.     1  Cor.  xii.  38. 

1  Tim- i  Phil.  t.  X.     r  Tim.  iii.  8.         w  See  letter  r. 

s-i.  1 — 4. 


Particular  Congregations.  479 

such  ordinances  as  belong  unto  them,  and  for  the  dis- 
charge of  mutual  duties.^ 

2-  The  ordinary  way  of  dividing  Christians  into  dis- 
tinct congregations,  and  most  expedient  for  edification, 
where  it  is  practicable,  is  by  the  respective  bounds  of 
their  dwellings. 

First ',  Because  they  who  dwell  together,  being  bound 
to  all  kind  of  moral  duties  one  to  another,  have  the 
better  opportunity  thereby  to  discharge  them;  which 
moral  tye  is  perpetual :  for  Christ  came  not  to  destroy 
the  law,  but  to  fulfil  it. z 

Secondly,  The  communion  of  saints  must  be  so  or- 
dered, as  may  consist  with  the  most  convenient  use  of 
the  ordinances,  and  discharge  of  moral  duties,  without 
respect  of  persons. # 

Thirdly,  The  pastor  and  people  must  so  nearly  dwell 
together,  as  that  they  may  mutually  perform  their  du- 
ties each  to  other  with  most  conveniency. 

3.  In  this  society  some  must  be  set  apart  to  bear 
office. 

Sect.   V.      Of  the  Officers   of  a   particular 
Congregation. 

1.  For  officers  in  a  single  congregation  there  ought 
to  be  one  at  the  least,  both  to  labour  in  the  word  and 
doctrine,  and  also  to  rule. 

2.  It  is  also  requisite  that  there  should  be  others  to 
join  in  the  government. 

3.  And  likewise  it  is  proper  that  there  be  others  to 
take  special  care  for  the  relief  of  the  poor. 

4.  The  number  of  each  of  which  is  to  be  propor- 
tioned according  to  the  condition  of  the  congregation. 

5.  Officers,  not  disqualified  by  misdemeanors  in  their 
stations,  ought  ordinarily  to  retain  their  offices  for  life. 


y  1  Cor.  xiv.  26,  33,  40.  z  Deut.  xv.  7,  it.     Mat.  xxii.  39. 

t.  17.         a  1  Cor.  xiv.  36.     Heb.  x.  24,  25.    James  ii.  i,  2. 


(     4*o     ) 

CHAP.  III. 

Of  the  Election  of  Church  Officers. 

Sect.  I.  Of  the  Election  of  Pastors. 

i.  TVT^  rcrson  can  DC  chosen  pastor  to  any  congre- 
JJ\    gat  ion  who  has  not  been  regularly  licensed  to 
preach  the  gospel. 

2.  The  choice  of  a  pastor  to  a  particular  congrega- 
tion belongs  to  the  male  members  thereof,  who,  when- 
ever such  a  choice  is  necessary,  are  to  be  convened,  by 
the  ciders,  for  that  purpose. 

3.  The  members,  thus  convened,  having  appointed 
a  moderator  of  the  meeting,  bhall  delegate  one  or  more 
of  their  own  number  to  the  Presbytery,*  under  whose 
inspection  they  are  placed,  to  apply  for  the  moderation 
of  a  call.-}- 

4.  The  commissioners,  thus  authorized,  appearing 
before  the  Presbytery,  and,  having  presented  their  com- 
mission, shall  be  interrogated  concerning  the  provision 
which  the  congregation  have  already  made  for  a  minis- 
ter, the  maintenance  they  intend  to  give  him,  and  then- 
prospects  of  being  able  to  fulfil  their  engagements.  If 
the  presbytery  receive  such  satisfaction  on  these  points, 
as,  in  connection  with  other  circumstances,  shall,  in  their 

Igment,  warrant  a  moderation,  they  shall  grant  it  ac- 
cordingly. If  not,  they  shall  deliver  their  objections  in 
writing,  to  the  commissioners,  to  be  laid  before  the 
congregation  at  their  return. 

5.  When  a  moderation  is  granted,  the  Presbytery 
shall  appoint  oik  oi  their  number  to  preach  on  a  week* 

,  as  soon  as  convenient,  in  the  petitioning  congrega- 
tion, and  to  moderate  in  the  preparation  of  a  call. 

1  or  th(  form  of  a  commission  sec  Appendix  I.  No.  3. 
I    A  mini  ter,  deputed  by  the  Presbytery  to  a  vacant  congrega- 
tion, presiding  in  the  meeting  at  which  a  call  is  to  be  made  out  for  a 
particular  person,  ascertaining  the  rotes  of  the  people,  and  certify- 
ing the  whole  proceeding  for  presbyterial  decision,  ii  said  to  icov*- 

UA1L    A    CALL. 


Ekftion  of  Pastors.  481 

6.  The  form  of  a  call  being  drafted,  the  minister,  af- 
ter concluding  public  worship,  shall,  in  presence  of  the 
congregation,  demand  the  name  of  the  person  for  whom 
the  call  is  designed^  and,  having  twice  distinctly  men- 
tioned it,  shall  require  such  members  as  favour  the  no- 
mination to  hold  up  their  right  hands,  and  afterwards, 
such  as  are  against  it. 

7.  If  there  be  more  than  one  candidate,  the  mode- 
rating minister  shall,  in  the  manner  now  described,  take 
the  votes  of  the  congregation  on  each  nomination.  The 
greatest  number  of  votes,  not  less  than  a  clear  majority, 
constitutes  an  election. 

8.  Although  a  majority  of  votes  must  be  considered 
as  expressing  the  sense  of  a  congregation,  yet  it  is  de- 
sirable that  their  choice  should  be  unanimous,  or  nearly 
so :  It  is,  therefore,  judged  advisable,  in  cases  where  the 
majority  is  small,  that  the  call  be  not  hastily  prosecuted, 
unless  the  minority  cordially  acquiesce:  and,  on  the 
other  hand,  public  order  and  Christian  love  require  a 
minority,  however  respectable,  not  to  persist  in  oppo- 
sition without  weighty  reasons. 

9.  If  it  appear  that  the  members  of  the  congregation 
have  not  been  duly  notified,  or  that,  by  any  accident,  a 
large  proportion  of  them  has  been  detained  from  attend- 
ing, the  minister  may  defer  the  election  another  week, 
without  a  new  order  from  the  Presbytery :  nor  shall  he 
be  obliged  to  preach  on  this  second  day  of  election,  un- 
less he  omitted  it  on  the  first, 

10.  After  the  election,  the  call  shall  be  signed,  first 
by  the  elders  and  deacons  of  the  congregation,  and  then 
by  the  electing  members  respectively.  After  this,  the 
ordinary  hearers,  though  not  entitled  to  vote,  may,  if 
they  please,  affix  their  signatures  to  the  call  as  adhe- 
rents. 

1 1 .  The  call  subscribed,  witnessed  by  two  or  more 
respectable  persons  not  members  of  the  congregation ,• 
?f  they  can  be  obtained,  and  attested  by  the  modern t- 

3P 


482  Of  Church-Government.  [Book  I. 

ing  minister*  shall  be  transmitted  to  the  Presbytery  by 
a  commissioner  or  commissioners  duly  authorized.* 

\i.  The  call  being  now  in  the  hands  of  the  Presby- 
tery, shall  be  by  them  proceeded  in,  as  hereafter  pre- 
scribed. 

Sect.  II.     Of  the  Election  of  Elders  and  Dea- 
cons. 

1.  When  a  vacancy  in  either  of  these  offices  is  to  be 
filled,  or  the  number  of  officers  to  be  enlarged,  the  ex- 
isting officers  should  previously  confer  among  them- 
selves, and,  after  mature  deliberation,  nominate  such  of 
their  brethren  as  they  judge  most  eminently  fitted  for 
official  stations,  and  as  may  meet  the  approbation  of  the 
congregation. 

2.  If  a  congregation  be  destitute  of  officers,  the  oldest 
and  most  experienced  members  should,  upon  confer- 
ence with  each  other,  and  with  the  other  members,  as 
they  have  opportunity,  agree  on  a  nomination  of  elders 
and  deacons. 

3.  After  due  notice  given  in  public,  the  electing 
members  shall  be  assembled,  some  time  in  the  week, 
days  of  fasting  and  thanksgiving  excepted,  for  the  pur- 
pose of  choosing  such  officers,  and  the  number  of  them, 
as  shall  be  necessary. 

4.  At  this  meeting,  the  candidates,  nominated  as 
aforesaid,  shall  be  publicly  proposed.  In  this  nomi- 
nation, however,  the  congregation  are  by  no  means 
obliged  to  concur;  but  it  is  lawful  for  any  member  to 
propose  any  other  member  in  the  room  of  any  of  the 

aid  candidates. 

5.  When  the  congregation,  on  being  interrogated, 
bj  the  minister,  shall  declare  themselves  ready  to  vote, 
he  shall  take  their  sense  with  respect  to  each  candidate 

rately.     The  votes  to  be  given,  on  both  sides  of 
the  question,  by  holding  up  the  right  hand. 

•  For  the  form  of  a  call,  and  ol  its  attestation,  see  Appendix  I, 
No.  4,  5. 


Eleclion  of  Elders  and  Deacons.  483 

6.  The  names  of  the  persons  elected  shall,  on  the 
•succeeding  Sabbath,  or  as  soon  after  as  possible,  be  pub- 
licly intimated  to  the  congregation;  together  with  the 
day  of  ordination,  which,  in  settled  congregations,  shall 
be  at  least  two  weeks  after  the  notification ;  and  all 
who  have  any  just  objections  against  the  ordination  of 
the  said  officers-elect,  shall  be  required  to  lay  them  be- 
fore the  Session  previously  to  the  time  appointed  for  or- 
dination. 

8.  It  is  expedient  that  a  meeting  of  Session  be  held 
before  the  ordination,  to  examine  the  candidates,  and 
hear  objections,  if  any  there  be. 

9.  If  the  congregation  be  vacant,  they  shall  apply5 
by  their  commissioner  or  commissioners  duly  autho- 
rized, to  the  Presbytery,  for  one  of  their  number  to  or- 
dain the  said  officers-elect; ;  and  if  there  be  no  officers 
in  the  congregation,  to  depute  a  committee  of  Presby- 
tery to  act  as  their  Session. 

10.  No  valid  objections  being  offered,  the  candi- 
dates, on  the  day  of  ordination,  presenting  themselves 
before  the  congregation  after  the  conclusion  of  sermon, 
and,  agreeably  to  the  annexed  formula,  engaging  to 
maintain  the  doctrine,  government,  worship,  and  dis- 
cipline of  the  church,  shall,  with  solemn  prayer,  be 
set  apart  by  the  minister  to  their  respective  offices.  Af- 
ter prayer,  the  minister  is  to  exhort  both  officers  and 
people  to  their  several  duties. 

1 1.  An  elder  or  deacon,  removing  from  his  own  into 
another  congregation,  and  bringing  with  him  recent 
testimonials  of  his  personal  and  official  conduct,  may, 
with  the  consent  of  the  congregation,  be  added  to  the 
Session  without  a  new  ordination. 

12.  A  list  of  the  ruling  elders  in  every  congregation, 
with  the  time  of  their  ordination,  is  to  be  given  by  the 
minister  to  the  Presbytery, 


484  Of  Church-Government.  [Book  L 

.Formula  of  Questions/*?;-  ruling  Elders  and  Deacons. 

DO  you  believe  the  holy  scriptures  of  the  Old  and  New  Testaments 
to  be  the  word  of  the  living  God  ;  the  perfect  and  only  rule  of 
iaicn  and  practice,  to  which  nothing  is  to  be  added,  and  from 
which  nothing  is  to  be  taken,  at  any  time,  or  upon  any  pretext, 
whether  of  new  revelations  of  the  Spirit  or  traditions  of  men? 

Do  you  receive  the  doctrine  of  this  church,  contained  in  her  Con- 
fession and  Catechisms,  as  founded  on  the  word  of  God,  and  as 
the  expression  of  your  own  faith?  and  do  you  resolve  to  adhere 
thereto,  in  opposition  to  all  Deistical,  Popish,  Arian,  Socinian, 
Arminian,  Neonomian,  and  Sectarian  errors,  and  all  other  opi- 
nions which  are  contrary  to  sound  doctrine  and  the  power  of  god- 
liness ? 

Do  you  approve  the  form  of  Presbyterial  church-government,  and 
the  Directories  for  worship,  received  by  this  church,  as  agreeable 
to,  and  founded  on,  the  word  of  God?  And  do  you  resolve  to 
maintain  and  observe  them  accordingly  ? 

Do  you  promise  to  submit,  in  the  spirit  of  meekness,  to  the  admo- 
nitions of  the  brethren  of  this  Session,  in  subordination  to  the 
Synod?  and  do  you  promise  to  maintain  the  unity  of  the  Spirit 
in  the  bond  of  peace;  and  that  you  will  not  follow  any  divisive 
courses,  by  complying  with  the  defections  of  the  times,  or  by  giv- 
ing yourself  [or  yourselves']  up  to  a  detestable  neutrality  in  the 
cause  of  God? 

Are  not  zeal  for  the  glory  of  God,  and  a  desire  of  being  instrumen- 
tal in  edifying  bis  Church,  the  principal  motives  which  induce 
you  to  take  the  office  of  {ruling  Elder  or  Deacon]  to  this  con- 
gregation ? 

Have  you  used  any  undue  method  to  procure  your  call  to  the  office 
of — [ruling  Elder,  or  Deacon?] 

Do  you  sincerely  resolve  to  rule  sour  family,  [or families,]  in  the  ft  ai 
of  the  Lord,  and  to  be  circumspect  in  tlie  whole  of  your  con- 
Ltioii,  following  after  righteousness,  faith,  charity  r  and  do 
you  also  promise  to  promote  the  edification  of  the  body  of  Christ, 
by  endeavouring  to  perform  all  the  official  duties  incumbent  upou 
you  with  zeal  apd  fidelity? 

For  Ruling  Elders. 

Do  you  promise  to  be  faithful  and  impartial  in  the  exercise  of  disci- 
pline, and  to  be  punctual  in  attending  meetings  of  Session,  and 
superior  judicatories,  as  you  may  be  called? 

For  Deacons. 

Do  von  promise  to  attend  to  the  necessities  of  the  poor,  with  Chris- 
tian n  and  tenderness,  and  to  manage  all  such  ten.. 

i  the  church  as  may  be  committed  to  your  care  with  dili- 
t  and  fidelity,  according  to  the  direeti<  ns  which,  frc 
to  t;  on  by  the  Session  ? 


The  Session,  4S5 

For  Ruling  Elders,  and  Deacons. 

)o  you  make  these  promises  as  in  the  presence  of  Him,  who  search- 
eth  the  hearts,  and  trieth  the  reins  oi  the  children  of  men  ;  and  as 
you  would  desire  to  give  in  your  account  with  joy  at  the  great  day 
of  the  Redeemer's  appearance,  when  He  shall  come,  and  all  his 
saints  with  him? 


CHAP.  IV. 

Of  Congregational  Assemblies  or  Sessions. 

S e  c  t  .  I.  Of  the  S e  s  s  1  o  n  in  general. 

f.  r  1  ^HE  Session  consists  of  the  minister  or  minis-? 
JL     ters,  and  elders  of  a  particular  congregation. 

2.  They  have  power  to  inquire  into  the  knowledge 
and  spiritual  estate  of  the  several  members  of  the  con- 
gregation— to  take  cognizance  of  ail  scandals  which 
happen  in  it  j  and,  for  this  purpose,  authoritatively  to 
call  before  them  any  member  or  members  of  the  con- 
gregation, and  to  introduce,  as  they  shall  see  occasion, 
witnesses  or  informants  from  other  congregations  or  de- 
nominations—to admonish  and  rebuke — to  suspend, 
authoritatively,  from  the  sacraments,  persons  not  yet 
cast  out  of  the  church — to  determine  the  seasons  of  con- 
gregational fasts  and  thanksgivings — to  regulate  the 
hours  of  service  on  the  Lord's  day,  and  also  on  week 
days,  except  the  regulation  be  made  by  a  superior  ju- 
dicatory— and  generally  to  make  such  prudential  ar- 
rangements respecting  the  religious  circumstances  of  the 
congregation  as  do  not  contravene  the  received  order 
of  the  church. 

3.  The  minister  has  power  to  convene  the  Session  as 
often  as  he  shall  judge  necessary,  and  shall  always  do  it, 
when  requested  by  two  of  the  elders.  Applications  for 
baptism  may  be  properly  intimated  to  them  on  the  Lord's 
day,  in  the  interval,  or  at  the  close  of  public  worship, 
without  the  formality  of  a  constituted  judicatory. 

4.  Deacons,  though  not  members  of  the  Session, 
ought  always  to  be  present,  that  they  may  make  re- 


4S6  Of  Church-Goverume  [Book  I, 

ports,  and  receive  instructions,  on  the  business  of  their 
office.  It  is  expedient  that  the  Session  consult  them 
in  things  belonging  to  their  office;  and  it  may  also,  at 
times,  be  profitable  to  ask  their  opinion  and  advice  in 
matters  relating  to  the  exercise  of  discipline,  and  other 
Sessional  functions, 

5.  It  is  incumbent  on  the  members  of  Session,  in  cases 
where  their  transactions  do  not  require  publication,  to 
maintain  a  prudent  reserve,  and  not  communicate,  un- 
necessarily, to  others,  the  facts  which  come  before  them, 
and  their  consequent  proceedings. 

6.  That  families  may  be  punctually  visited,  the  con- 
duct of  members  carefully  observed,  and  discipline  ef- 
fectually exercised,  it  may  be  proper  that  the  congrega- 
tion be  divided,  by  the  Session,  into  as  many  districts 
as  there  are  elders :  and  that  a  district  be  committed  to 
each  elder  for  his  official  inspection. 

7.  Extraordinary  cases,  in  which  the  due  order  can- 
not, in  every  thing,  be  observed,  may  be  referred  to 
the  Presbytery  for  direction  ;  but  if  the  emergency  re- 
quire a  decision  before  the  Presbytery  can  be  assembled, 
the  Session,  after  mature  deliberation,  may  proceed. 

8.  Every  Session  shall  take  care  that  an  exact  register 
be  kept  of  the  members  of  the  congregation,  of  marri- 
ages, and  of  the  births  of  children  baptized. 

Sect.  II.   Principles  (^Church-Fellowship  to 

be  carefully  attended  to  by  Sessions. 

1.  Visible  membership  is  solemnly  recognized  by 
admission  to  the  seals  of  the  covenant  of  grace,  viz, 
baptism  and  the  Lord's  suppc 

I  icrauients,  being  seals  of  the  same  cove- 

nant, and  representing  the  same  benefits,^  cannot  be 

I  with  respect  to  the  right  and  the  duty  1 
ceiving  them.  Therefore  all  bapiized  persons,  1 
by  their  baptism,  acknowledged  members  ot  the  visi- 

*  Mat.  xxviii.  19.    1  Cor.  xi.  24.  b  A&s  ii.  3S.  with  Mat. 

28. 


The  Session.  48  7 

ble  church,  are  bound,  by  the  baptismal  vow,  to  shew 
forth  the  Lord's  death,  when  arrived  at  the  years  of 
discretion ;  and  are  the  lawful  subjects  of  church-go- 
vernment. 

3 .  As  visible  membership,  not  being  inseparably  con- 
nected with  regenerating  grace, c  may  be  forfeited  by 
open  renunciation  of  Christ's  truth  ;d  by  evident  want 
of  acquaintance  with  its  power,<?  or  by  unholy  conduct  \f 
no  person,  though  baptized,  may  be  admitted  to  a  seat 
at  the  table  of  the  Lord,  or  to  baptism  for  his  children, 
unless  his  profession  and  practice  afford  sufficient  reason 
for  the  judgment  of  charity,  that  he  is  a  member  of  the 
church  invisible.^ 

4.  No  unbaptized  person  can  be  admitted  to  the 
Lord's  table,  or  to  baptism  for  his  children.^ 

5.  All  who  dedicate  their  children  in  baptism,  do 
thereby  avouch  the  Lord  to  be  their  God  in  Christ  ;i 
and  shall,  therefore,  on  their  admission  to  that  privilege, 
be  strictly  enjoined  to  aft  consistently  in  their  profes- 
sion, by  celebrating,  in  the  sacrament  of  the  supper, 
the  dying  love  of  the  Lord  Jesus. 

6.  Such  as  offer  their  children  in  baptism,  while  they 
abstain  from  the  sacrament  of  the  supper,  and  persist 
in  neglecting  this  ordinance,  after  solemn  and  frequent 
admonition  by  the  officers  of  the  church,  do,  in  effect, 
renounce  their  obedience  to  Christ,^  and  shall  be  debar- 
red from  every  sacramental  privilege. 

7.  But,  as  some  persons  of  tender  consciences,  who 
find  liberty  in  presenting  theirchildren  in  baptism,  may, 
notwithstanding,  be  deterred  by  darknefs  of  mind,  dis- 
tressing fears,  or  strong  temptations,  from  approaching 
the  table  of  the  Lord,  an  exception  is  made  in  favour 
of  those  who  give  evidence  of  their  labouring  under 
such  discouragements ;  and  it  is  enjoined  on  the  officers, 
particularly  the  minister  or  ministers  of  the  congrega- 

c  Heb.  vi.  4—6.  d  i  Tim.  i.  19,  20.  e  John  xv.  2.  / 1  Cor. 
v.  throughout,  g  Mat.  vii.  16—20.  Afts  vi'ii.  37.  //  Gal.  iii.  27, 
*  Acts  ii.  38.      k  Johnxiv.  15.  with  Luke  xxii.  19.  and  vi.  48. 


4?S  Of '  Ch'trck-Govemment.  [Book  ti 

tion,  to  use  every  gentle  and  persuasive  method  for  re- 
moving their  difficulties,  and  for  bringing  them  for- 
ward to  shew  their  love  to  Jesus  Christ,  by  performing 
the  great  duty,  and  improving  the  unspeakable  mercy, 
of  partaking  of  the  communion  of  his  body  and  blood./ 
8.  Such  as  have  been  at  the  Lord's  table,  and  after- 
ward neglect  that  ordinance,  shall,  alter  admonition 
duly,  but  ineffectually,  used  for  their  reformation,  be 
judicially  excluded  from  the  privileges  of  the  church. 

Sect.  III.     Of  the  Admission  of  Members. 

i.  Application  for  membership  from  members  of 
other  denominations,  shall,  at  all  times,  be  cautiously 
received  :  nor  shall  it  be  admitted  in  any  case,  unless, 
upon  deliberate  examination,  the  applicants  shall  appear 
to  act  from  a  solid  conviction  of  duty,,  and  shall  dis- 
cover Christian  meekness  towards  the  party  whose  com- 
munion is  relinquished;  The  application  shall  also, 
when  made  by  individuals,  be  accompanied  with  testi- 
monials, if  they  can  be  obtained  on  a  regular  request 
to  the  Session,  or  at  least  minister  of  the  congregation 
to  which  they  belong.  .  No  encouragement  shall  be  gi- 
ven to  causeless  desertion  from  other  churches,  nor  the 
smallest  countenance  to  fugitives  from  discipline. m 

2.  In  ordinary  cases,  applications  for  baptism,  or  for 
a  seat  at  the  Lord's  table  for  the  first  time,  must  be 
timeously  made  to  the  minister,  or  an  elder  of  the  con- 
gregation, and  by  cither  of  them  be  communicated, 
without  delay,  to  the  Session,  that  they  may  have  suffi- 
cient time  to  inquire  into  the  characters  and  conversa- 
tion of  the  applicants.  The  same  regulation  shall  be  ob- 
served with  respect  to  applications  from  persons  of  other 
denominations,  and  from  members  who  have  been  more 
than  a  year  absent,  at  a  distance  from  the  congregation, 
and  do  not  produce  satisfactory  testimonials ;  or  who 
have  been  debarred,  by  a  judicial  sentence,  from  the 

/  Hcb.  xii.  12,  13.     mi  Cor.  x.  32.  xiv.  33.  Hcb.  x.  24. 


The  Session.  489 

tommunion  of  the  church,  and  are  desirous  of  re-ad- 
mission. 

3.  It  is  left  to  the  discretion  of  Sessions,  who  are 
best  acquainted  with  their  particular  circumstances,  to 
fix  the  time  which  ought  to  intervene  between  applica- 
tion for  church-privileges  and  the  obtaining  of  them. 
But  in  ordinary  cases  it  should  not  be  less  than  eight 
days. 

4.  Applicants  shall  be  examined  concerning  their 
knowledge,  principles,  and  experience,  by  the  minister 
or  ministers ;  or  by  one  or  more  of  the  ruling  elders  in 
conjunction  with  him,  as  the  Session  may  judge  advisa- 
ble. Nor  shall  there  be  made  any  distinction  between 
the  qualifications  requisite  for  baptism,  whether  of 
adults  or  their  infants,  and  for  admission  to  the  table 
of  the  Lord. 

Sect.  IV.     Of  Testimonials. 

1 .  When  a  member  of  a  congregation  is  called  in 
providence  to  remove  to  another,  or  to  some  distant 
place,  he  is  to  apply  for  testimonials  of  his  character 
and  standing  in  the  church,  which,  if  not  more  than  a 
year  old,  shall  entitle  him  to  sealing  ordinances  in  any 
congregation  a  under  the  inspection  of  the  Synod  :  And 
without  such  testimonials,  no  person,  not  well  known 
to  one  or  more  of  the  Session,  shall  be  admitted  to  com- 
munion merely  on  the  plea  of  having  been  a  member  of 
another  congregation.  In  such  case,  he  must  either 
obtain  testimonials  from  the  place  he  last  left,  or  sub- 
mit to  the  regulations  prescribed  in  the  foregoing 
Section. 

2.  To  members  of  unexceptionable  character,  who 
are  about  to  remove,  testimonials  shall  at  all  times  be 
granted  at  their  request ;  but  they  shall,  on  no  consi- 
deration, be  given  to  any  person  who  is  known  to  be 
corrupt  in  principle,  or  immoral  in  practice,  or  who  is 
under  censure. 

«  Rom.  xvi.  1. 


490  Of  Church-Government.  [Bookl.. 

3.  Members  removing  to  a  distance,  and  neglecting 
to  apply  tor  their  testimonials)  shall  not  obtain  them  in 
virtue  of  a  subsequent  application,  unless  the  Session 
have  reason  to  believe  that  their  conversation,  during 
their  absence,  hath  been  as  becometh  the  gospel  of 
Christ. 

4.  in  ordinary  cases,  testimonials  must  be  signed  by 
the  minister  or  ministers  of  the  congregation,  or  one  of 
them  ;  and  by  one  or  more  ot  the  elders. 

5.  Testimonials  of  persons  who  become  resident  mem- 
bers, are  to  be  carefully  preserved  by  the  minister,  and 
new  ones  to  be  given  in  their  stead,  whenever  removal 
or  other  occurrence  shall  render  it  necessary.* 


CHAP.  V. 

Of  Classical  Assemblies  or  Presbyteries. 

Sect.  I.     Of  the  Presbytery  in  general. 

1.  rpHE  scripture  doth  hold  out  a  Presbytery  in  a 
church,  a 

2.  The  Presbytery  consisteth  of  all  the  ministers  of 
the  word,  within  a  certain  district;  each  accompanied 
by  a  ruling  elder  commissioned  from  the  Session.  An 
organized  congregation  that  is  vacant,  but  able  and 
willing  to  support  a  pastor,  hath  a  right  to  be  repre- 
sented by  an  elder,  and  should  never  neglect  to  send 
one,  commissioned  by  the  rest. 

3.  The  scripture  doth  hold  forth,  that  many  parti- 
cular congregations  may  be  under  one  Presbytcrial  go- 
vernment. 

The  proposition  is  proved  by  instances  : 
I.  Of  the  church   of  Jerusalem,  which  con- 
sisted oi    more  congregations  than  one;  and  all  these 
congregations  were  under  one  Presbytcrial  government. 
That  the  church  of  Jerusalem  consisted  of  more  con- 
gregations than  one,  is  mam. 

*   Appendix  I.  No.   1,  2. 

a  1  Tim.  i.  14.     Acts  xv.  z,  4.  6. 


The  Presbytery.  491 

1st.  By  the  multitude  of  believers  mentioned  in  di- 
vers places;  both  before  the  dispersion  of  the  believers 
there,  by  means  of  the  persecution  ;£  and  also  after  the 
dispersion,  c 

2d.  By  the  many  apostles  and  other  preachers  in  the 
church  of  Jerusalem.  And  if  there  were  but  one  con- 
gregation there,  then  each  apostle  preached  but  sel- 
dom ;  which  will  not  consist  with  Acts  vi.  2. 

3d.  The  diversity  of  languages  among  the  believers, 
mentioned  both  in  the  second  and  sixth  chapters  of  the 
Ads,  doth  argue  more  congregations  than  one  in  that 
church. 

Secondly.  All  those  congregations  were  under  one 
Presbyterial  government;  because, 

1  st.  They  were  one  church.^ 

2d.  The  elders  of  the  church  are  mentioned.^ 

3d.  The  apostles  did  the  ordinary  acts  of  Presbyters, 
as  Presbyters,  in  that  church  :  which  proveth  a  Presby- 
terial church  before  the  dispersion.     Acts  vi. 

4th.  The  several  congregations  in  Jerusalem  being 
one  church,  the  elders  of  that  church  are  mentioned  as 
meeting  together  tor  acts  of  government,/"  which  proves 
that  those  several  congregations  were  under  one  Presby- 
terial government. 

And  whether  these  congregations  were  fixed  or  not 
fixed,  in  regard  of  officers  or  members,  it  is  all  one  as 
to  the  truth  of  the  proposition. 

Nor  doth  there  appear  any  material  difference  be- 
twixt the  several  congregations  in  Jerusalem,  and  the 
many  congregations  now  in  the  ordinary  condition  of 
the  church,  as  to  the  point  of  fixedness  required  of  of- 
ficers or  members. 

Therefore,  the  scripture  doth  hold  forth,  that  many 
congregations  may  be  under  one  Presbyterial  govern- 
ment. 


b  A£ts  i.  15.  ii.  4  r ,  46,47.  iv.  4.  v.  14.  vi.  r,  7.  viii.  1.  c  Acts 
ix.  31.  xii.  34.  xxi.  20.  d  Afts  i"i.  47.  v.  n.  viii.  1.  xii.  5.  xv.  4, 
e>A6tsxi.  30.  xv.  4,  6,  22.  xxi.  17,  18.        /  See  letter  c. 


49 *  Of  Church-Government.  [Book  I. 

If.  By  the  instance  of  the  church  of  Ephesus  ; 
for, 

First,  That  there  were  more  congregations  than  one 
in  the  church  of  Ephesus,  appears  by  Acts  xx.  31.  where 
is  mention  of  Paul's  continuance  at  Ephesus,  in  preach- 
ing, for  the  space  of  three  years  :  and  Acts  xix.  1 8 — 20. 
where  the  special  effect  of  the  word  is  mentioned  ;  and 
vcr.  10  and  1  7  of  the  same  chapter,  where  is  a  distinc- 
tion of  Jews  and  Greeks:  and  1  Cor.  xvi.  8,  9.  where  it 
is  assigned  as  a  reason  of  Paul's  stay  at  Ephesus  unto 
Pentecost,  that  a  great  and  effectual  door  was  opened 
unto  him  ;  and  ver.  19.  where  is  mention  of  a  particu- 
lar church  in  the  house  of  Aquila  and  Priscilla,  then  at 
Ephesus,  as  appears  from  Acts  xviii.  19,  24,  26.  all 
which  laid  together,  doth  prove  that  the  multitude  of 
believers  did  make  more  congregations  than  one  in  the 
church  of  Ephesus: 

Secondly,  That  there  were  many  ciders  over  these 
many  congregations,  as  one  flock,  appearetb.f 

Thirdly,  That  these  many  congregations  were  one 
church,  and  that  they  were  under  one  Presbyterial  go- 
vt, rn  me  nt,  appcarcth./z 

4.  The  authority  of  the  Presbytery  rcacheth   to  all 
things  that  concern  the  particular  churches  within  their 
bounds,  which  do  not  belong  to  sessional  or  synodical 
jurisdiction  :  such  as  deciding  on  appeals  from  church- 
ions,  and   other  references  brought   orderly   before 
them — rebuking  gross  or  contumacious  offenders — di- 
cing  the   censure  of  excommunication — approving 
or  censuring  the  sessional  records — appointing  supplies 
preaching  and  other  ordinances  to  vacancies — exa- 
mining and  taking  charge  of  students  of  theology — 
aminingand  licensing  candidates  for  the  ministry — or- 
ing,  installing,  removing,  and  judging  ministers — 
disjoining  or  uniting  congregations — resolving  cases  of 
conscience — inquiring  into  the   state  of  the   churches 

g  A£b  xx.  17,  »$,  28,  30,  36,  37.        h  Rev.  ii.  1—6,  compared 
with  letter  «■. 


The  Presbytery.  493 

under  their  inspection;   and  rectifying  any  disorders, 
abuses,  or  other  evils,  by  which  any  of  them  may  suffer. 

5.  Although  the  number  of  members  in  Prctbyte- 
ries  cannot  be  determined  by  any  general  rule,  yet, 
that  the  affairs  of  the  church  of  Christ  may  be  pro- 
perly conducted,  it  is  proper  that  a  Presbytery  consist 
of  not  less  than  two  ministers,  with  two  elders. 

6.  As  the  office  of  minister  includeth  that  of  elder, 
a  Presbytery,  if  no  elders  attend,  may  be  constituted 
by  ministers  alone,  provided  their  number  be  not 
less  than  three. 

7.  Presbyteries  should  meet  as  frequently  as  the  si- 
tuation of  the  ministers  will  admit :  but  they  are  strictly 
required  to  meet  at  least  once  in  six  months.  Besides 
their  stated  meetings,  they  should  meet  occasionally, 
when  any  urgent  business  demands  immediate  atten- 
tion. In  these  cases,  the  moderator  hath  power  to  con- 
vene the  Presbytery,  and  shall  always  do  it  at  the  re- 
quest of  two  members. 

8.  All  occasional  meetings  of  Presbytery  shall  be 
called  by  letters  addressed  from  the  moderator  to  the 
ministers  thereof  respectively ;  or  by  personal  informa- 
tion. 

Sect.'  II.      The  Duty  of  Presbyteries  with  respe£t  to 
Students  of  Divinity. 

1.  As  an  able,  evangelical,  and  faithful  ministry  is  of 
unspeakable  moment  to  the  peace,  the  purity,  the  pros- 
perity, and  the  glory  of  the  Christian  church,  Pres- 
byteries are  bound  to  use  their  utmost  diligence  in  train- 
ing up  young  men  for  that  holy  office. 

2.  No  person  can  be  admitted  as  a  student  of  divi- 
nity without  previous  examination,  by  a  committee  of 
Presbytery,  as  to  abilities,  education,  and'  piety;  and 
every  applicant  for  such  admission  must  produce,  as  an 
essential  preliminary,  testimonials  of  his  having  been  in 
full  communion  with  the  Christian  church./' 

i  1  Tim.  ili.  6. 


494  0/  Chuych-Go'jcrnment.  [Book  I, 

3.  As  great  literature  and  abilities,  without  the  sanc- 
tifying grace  of  the  Lord  Jesus,  arc  not  only  useless, 
but  pernicious  to  vital  religion,  no  person,  whatever 
be  his  eminence  in  cither,  shall,  on  any  consideration, 
be  admitted  by  a  Presbytery,  to  study  lor  the  ministry, 
unless  they  have  ground  to  believe  that  he  hath  some 
saving  acquaintance  with  the  power  or  godliness. £  And 
Presbyteries  are  enjoined  to  be  particularly  careful  as 
well  as  tender  in  this  inquiry,  that  the  honour  of  Je- 
sus Christ,  and  the  eternal  interests  of  men,  be  not 

ryed  through  negligence  or  partiality. 

4.  Since  many  whom  the  Lord  hath  blessed  with 
excellent  endowments,  and  with  the  saving  grace  of 
his  Spirit,  are  deterred  by  groundless  fears,  or  disabled 
by  penurious  circumstances,  from  prosecuting  theolo- 
gical studies, Presbyteries  are  especially  required  to  make 
inquiries  after  such,  and  to  encourage  and  aid  them  to 
become  qualified  for  the  holy  ministry. 

5.  Students  should  attend,  if  possible,  the  meet; 
of  judicatories. 

Sect.  III.     Of  licensing  Candidates. 

1.  In  ordinary  cases,  no  student  of  divinity  can  be 
admitted  to  trials  for  licence,  without  a  course  of  the- 
ological study,  during  three  full  years,  after  the  time 
of  his  being  received  by  the  Presbytery. 

2.  No  student  of  divinity  shall  be  taken  on  trials  for 
licence,  without  producing  satisfactory  testimonials,  as 
well  pf  his  unexceptionable  conduct,  as  of  his  profici- 
ency in  classical  and  philosophical  literature. 

3.  The  candidate  must,  on  examination  by  the  Prcs- 
bytery,  give  proof  of  his  skill  in  the  original  languages 
ol  the  scriptures — of  his  acquaintance  with  ecclesiasti- 
cal history,  and  with  the  doc! lines  of  our  holy  religion. 
He  shall  be  exam;.  I,  especially,  on  the  Deistical, 
Socinian,  and  Arminian  controversies}  on  the  nature 

Cor.  i.  4. 


The  Presbytery.  495 

"of  the  sacraments  j  on  the  principles  of  church  govern- 
ment;  and,  privately,  on  his  own  experience  of  the 
grace  of  the  Lord  Jesus./ 

4.  In  order  to  afford  a  specimen  of  his  ministerial 
talents,  the  candidate  shall  perform  the  following  pieces 
of  trial : 

1st.  A  Homily  ;  which  is  a  doctrinal  discourse  on 
some  text  of  scripture,  and  is  required  to  be  accurate, 
perspicuous,  and  concise. 

2d.  An  Exegesis,  or  dissertation  in  Latin,  on  some 
topic  in  divinity;  in  which,  as  in  the  former,  the  can- 
didate is  to  confine  himself  closely  to  his  subject,  and 
to  aim  at  the  establishment  of  truth,  or  the  refutation 
of  error,  chiefly  by  pertinent  scriptural  reasoning. 

3d.  A  Critical  Exercise;  which  is  intended  to 
furnish  the  candidate  with  an  opportunity  of  displaying 
his  taste  and  judgment  in  sacred  criticism,  by  giving  a 
critical  explication  of  the  text ;  removing  its  difficul- 
ties; solving  any  important  question  which  may  spring 
from  it ;  detecting  misapplications  and  perversions  of 
it;  stating  its  connection,  and  summing  up  its  contents 
in  a  brief,  energetic  paraphrase.  This  exercise  is  to 
close  with  a  short  deduction  of  the  doctrines  natively 
arising  from  the  text,  and  with  a  concise  application. 

4th.  A  Lecture  ;  which  is  anexposition  of  several 
verses  of  scripture,  and  the  excellence  of  which  consists 
in  elucidating  the  meaning  of  those  verses,  by  rigidly 
following  the  train  of  truth  contained  in  them  ;  stating, 
with  clearness  and  precision,  their  connection  and  mu- 
tual dependence  ;  and  placing,  in  a  strong  light,  the  ar- 
gument of  the  inspired  writer. 

5th.  A  popular  Sermon. 

5.  It  is  expedient  that  these  pieces  of  trial  be  deli- 
vered before  the  Presbytery  at  different  times,  that  they 
may  be  able  to  judge  of  the  progress  of  the  candidate. 
The  lecture  and  popular  sermon  are  to  be  delivered  in 
public  immediately  before  license. 

/  z  Tim.  ii.  1  C. 


■yjb  Of 'Church-Government.  [Book  I. 

6.  When  the  candidate  hath  finished  his  trials,  the 
moderator  shall  take  the  sense  of  the  Presbytery  con- 
cerning them;  and  if  they  be  not  satisfied,  and  refuse 
to  sustain  them,  the  candidate,  after  having  the  ob- 
jections of  the  Presbytery  stated  to  him,  with  all  pos- 
sible gentleness  and  tenderness,  shall  either  be  remanded 
to  his  studies,  or  have  those  parts  of  trial  in  which  he 
was  defective,  again  appointed  to  him  on  the  same,  or 
on  different  subjects,  as  the  Presbytery  shall  judge  fit. 

7.  If  the  Presbytery  be  satisfied  with  his  trials,  and 
sustain  them  for  license,  he  is  to  be  affectionately  and 
solemnly  reminded  by  the  moderator,  of  the  import- 
ance, the  difficulty,  and  the  excellence  of  that  work  on 
which  he  is  about  to  enter  ;  and  exhorted  to  a  suitable 
deportment.  He  is  then,  alter  taking  upon  himself 
the  engagements  prescribed  in  the  formula  of  ques- 
tions,* to  be  licensed,  in  the  name  of  the  Lord  Jesus 
Christ,  to  preach  the  everlasting  gospel,  as  a  proba- 
tioner for  the  holy  ministry. -f-  The  remarks  of  the 
Presbytery  on  trials  are  always  to  be  private,  unless  the 
candidate,  in  his  public  discourses,  advance  such  errors, 
as  they  judge  necessary,  for  the  cause  of  truth,  to  be 
publicly  noticed. 

8.  All  probationers  are  to  be  under  the  direction,  aod 
to  fulfil  the  appointments,  of  the  Presbyteries  by  which 
they  were  licensed  ;  and  may  not,  without  Presbyterial 
permission,  or  unavoidable  necessity,  desert  the  boun- 
daries assigned  to  them. 

9.  Probationers  should  attend  Presbyterial  and  Syno- 
1  meetings,  but  have  no  vote  in  either,  nor  any  right 

to  dispense  the  sacraments,  or  to  exercise  any  part  ot 
church  discipline. 

10.  In  laying  appointments  on  probationers,  Presbv- 
teries  should  consult,  as  far  as  possible,  their  circum 
stances  and  inclinations. 


*  See  III.  of  the  following  Se&ion. 

I  For  the  form  of  licensure  see  Appendix  I.  No.  6, 


The  Presbytery.  497 

Sect.  IV.    Of  the  Ordination  of  Ministers. 

Under  the  head  of  ordination  of  ministers,  is  to  be 
considered,  the  doclriue  of  ordination,  the  power  of  it, 
and  the  manner  of  performing  it. 

I.     Of  the  Doctrine  of  Ordination. 

1.  No  man  ought  to  take  upon  him  the  office  of  a 
minister  of  the  word,  without  a  lawful  calling.^ 

2.  Ordination  is  always  to  be  continued  in  the 
church. « 

3.  Ordination  is  the  solemn  setting  apart  of  a  person 
to  some  public  church-office, 0 

4.  Every  minister  of  the  word  is  to  be  ordained  by 
imposition  of  hands  and  prayer,  with  fasting,  by  those 
preaching  Presbyters  to  whom  it  doth  belong./) 

5.  It  is  agreeable  to  the  word  of  God,  and  very  expe- 
dient, that  such  as  are  to  be  ordained  ministers,  be  de- 
signed to  some  particular  church,  or  other  ministerial 
charge.  ^ 

6.  He  that  is  to  be  ordained  minister,  must  be  duly 
qualified,  both  for  life  and  ministerial  abilities,  accord- 
ing to  the  rules  of  the  apostle. r 

7.  He  is  to  be  examined  and  approved  by  those  bf 
whom  he  is  ordained. s 

8.  No  man  is  to  be  ordained  a  minister  for  a  particu- 
lar congregation,  if  they  of  that  congregation  can  shew 
just  cause  of  exception  against  himJ 

II.     Of  the  Power  of  Ordination. 

1 .  Ordination  is  the  act  of  a  Presbytery .<y 

2.  The  power  of  ordering  the  whole  work  of  ordina- 
tion is  in  the  whole  Presbytery ;  which,  when  it  is  over 

m  John  ill.  37.  Rom.  x.  14,  i£.  Jer.  xiv.  14.  Heb.  v.  4; 
n  Titus  i.  5.  1  Tim.  v.  21,  22.  0  Numb.  viii.  10,  11,  14,  19, 
ea.    Afts  vi.  3,  $,  6.  /z   1  Tim.  v.  22.    A6h  xiv.  23.    xiii.  3. 

q  Adts  xiv.  23.     Titus  i.  5.     A£ts  xx.  1 7,  28.         r  1  Tim.  iii.  2 — 6, 
Titus  i.  5—9.         s  1  Tim.  iii.  7,  io.     v.  22.  t  1  Tim.  iii.  2', 

Titus  i.  7.        vi  Tim.  i'v.  14. 

3R 


498  Of  Church-Government .  [Book  1. 

more  congregations  than  one,  whether  those  congrega- 
tions be  fixed  or  not  fixed  in  regard  of  officers  or  mem- 
beis,  it  is  indifferent  as  to  the  point  of  ordination.:;' 

It  is  very  requisite,  that  no  single  congregation 
that  can  conveniently  associate,  do  assume  to  itself  all 
and  sole  power  in  ordination. 

1  st.  Because  there  is  no  example  in  scripture,  that 
single  congregation,  which  might  conveniently  as- 

iate,  did  assume  to  itself  all  and  sole  power  in  ordi- 

1  in  ;  neither  is  there  any  rule  which  may  warrant  such 

.-.ictice. 

2d.  Because  there  is,  in  scripture,  example  of  an  or- 
dination in  a  Presbytery  over  divers  congregations:  as 
in  the  church  of  Jerusalem,  where  were  many  congrc- 

iQns:  these  many  congregations  were  under  one 
Presbytery,  and  this  Presbytery  did  ordain. 

4.  The  preaching  Presbyters  orderly  associated  in 
I  r  sb)  ferial  judicatory,  are  those  to  whom  the  imposi- 
1  rj  of  hands  doth  appertain,  for  those  congregation^ 
within  their  bounds  respectively; 

IN.     Of  the  Manner  of  ordaining  Ministers. 

1.  No  call  shall  be  presented  or  accepted,  but  from 
the  Pfiesb)  tcry  to  which  the  presentee  belongs,  and  at  a 
Presb  I      il  meeting; 

The  Presb}  tery  hath  power  to  prevent  the  ordination 
of  a  particular  person  to  a  particular  congregation,  but: 
not  to  compel  it  against  the  consent  of  either  of  the 
pari; 

3.  When  a  Presbytery  hath  so  far  approved  a  regular 
call  for  a  probationer,  as  to  grant  thereupon  trials  for 

I nation,  it  shall  be  put  into  his  hands  by  the  mode- 
rator; and  he  be  required  to  declare  his  acceptance  or 

lisal ;  time,  however,  being,  by  his  desire,  granted  to 
him  for  consideration. 

4.  If  the  call  be  accepted  by  the  probationer,  the 
Presbyter)'  shall  appoint  him  two  public  discourse 

vj  1  Tim.  Iv,  14. 


The  Presbytery.  499 

lecture  and  a  popular  sermon,  in  order  to  judge  of  his 
progress  since  his  licensure,  and  of  the  fitness  of  his  gifts 
to  the  place  to  which,  he  is  called. 

5.  Satisfaction  being  given  in  these,  the  Presbytery 
shall  appoint  a  day  for  the  ordination ;  and  shall  also 
cause  the  congregation  to  be  assembled  at  a  convenient 
time  previously  thereto;  and  at  that  meeting  a  written 
intimation,  termed  an  Edict,  purporting  that  "  the 
"  Presbytery,  having  received  a  call  for  Mr.  A.  B. 
"  preacher  of  the  gospel,  to  be  their  minister,  and  find- 
"  ing  nothing  to  impede  his  settlement  among  them, 
"  will  ordain  him  accordingly,  if  no  just  objection  be 
"  seasonably  offered,"  shall  be  publicly  read  to  the 
cofigregatioruV 

6.  The  Presbytery  meeting  at  the  time  specified  in 
the  edict,  the  person  by  them  appointed  to  serve  it,  or, 
in  his  absence,  the  clerk  of  the  congregation,  or  one  of 
the  Session,  shall  return  it,  indorsed  with  his  certification, 
that  it  has  been  duly  served.  If  no  objections  be  made, 
the  Presbytery  shall  proceed  to  the  ordination;  if  any 
be  made,  the  Presbytery  shall  carefully  consider  them, 
and  either  sustain  or  overrule  them,  as  their  nature  and 
proof  shall  render  necessary. 

7.  On  the  day  of  ordination  a  solemn  fast  shall  be 
observed  in  the  congregation,  that  they  may  the  more 
earnestly  join  in  public  prayer  for  the  Lord's  blessing 
upon  his  ordinances,  and  on  the  labours  of  his  servant 
to  whom  the  administration  of  them  is  about  to  be 
committed. 

8.  Immediately  before  ordination,  one  of  the  mem- 
bers of  the  Presbytery,  previously  appointed,  shall  preach 
a  sermon  concerning  the  office  and  duty  of  the  ministers 
qt  Christ,  and  how  the  people  should  receive  them 
for  their  work's  sake.  The  sermon  and  prayer  being 
ended,  the  minister  shall  briefly  state  the  proceedings 
of  Presbytery  relatively  to  the  occasion  of  the  meeting, 
and  shall  then  desire  the  candidate  to  present  himself. 

x  Appendix  I.  No.  7. 


5°o  Of  Gkurch-Governvient.  [Book  I. 

9.  On  his  appearing,  the  presiding  minister  shall,  in 
the  face  of  the  congregation,  and,  according  to  the  an- 
nexed formula,  interrogate  him  concerning  his  faith  in 
Phrist  Jesus,  and  his  persuasion  of  the  reformed  re- 
ligion according  to  the  scripture  ;  his  sincere  intentions 
and  ends  in  desiring  to  enter  into  this  calling;  his  dili- 
gence in  praying,  reading,  meditation,  preaching,  mi- 
nistering the  sacraments,  discipline,  and  doing  all  mi- 
nisterial duties  towards  his  charge:  his  zeal  and  faith- 
fulness in  maintaining  the  truth  of  the  gospel,  and  unity 
of  the  church  against  error  and  schism;  his  care  that 
himsclt  and  his  family  may  be  unblameable,  and  exam- 
ple to  the  flock  :  his  v\  illingness  and  humility,  in  meek- 
ness of  spirit,  to  submit  unto  the  admonitions  of  his 
brethren,  and  discipline  ot  the  church;  and  his  resolu- 
tion to  qontipue  in  his  duty  against  all  trouble  and 
persecution. 

10.  In  all  which  having  declared  himself,  professed 
his  willingness,  and  promised  his  endeavours,  by  the 
help  of  Gon  ;  the  minister  likewise  shall  demand  of  the 
people  concerning  their  willingness  to  receive  and  ac« 
jknowledge  him  as  the  minister  of  Christ,  and  to  obey 
and  submit  unto  him,  as  having  rule  over  them  in  the 
.Lord,  and  to  maintain,  encourage,  and  assist  him  in 
all  the  different  parts  of  his  office. 

1 1.  Which  being  mutually  promised  by  the  people, 
the  presiding  minister  shall  descend  from  the  pulpit, 
and  the  candidate,  kneeling,  shall  be  solemnly  set  a; 

to  the  office  and  work  of  the  ministry,  by  the  laying  on 
of  the  hands  of  the  Presbytery,  which  is  to  be  accom- 
panied with  a  short  prayer  or  blowing,  by  the  pr< 
minister  as   their    mouth,   to  the  fojlowinj  : — ; 

"  Thankfully  acknowledging  the  great  men  y  oi   G 
"  in  sending  Jests  Christ  for  the  redemption  ol   his 
"  people,  and  tor  his  ascension  to  the  right  hand  <>f  Gon 
"  tl  ■,   and  tl  1  -ut  his  Spib  1  J  , 

•  and  giving  gifts  to  men,  apostles,  ei  >ts,  pro- 

"  phetS,  nd   teacher,  for  the   gathering  and 

"  building  up  of  his  1 


The  Presbytery.  50? 

*f  ing  this  man  to  this  great  work :  [Here  let  them  im~ 
■'  pose  hands  on  his  head]  to  intreat  him  to  fill  him  with 
"  his  Holy  Spirit;  to  give  him,  (whom  in  his  great 
"  and  venerable  name  they  thus  set  apart  to  his  holy 
"  service)  to  fulfil  the  work  of  his  ministry  in  all  things, 
"  that  he  may  both  save  himself,  and  the  people  com- 
^  mitted  to  his  charge." 

12.  The  prayer  to  this  purpose  being  ended,  the  pre- 
siding and  other  ministers  are  to  take  the  person  ordained 
by  the  right  hand,  saying,  We  give  unto  you  the  right 
hand  of  fellowship,  to  take  part  of  the  ministry  with  us. 
The  officers  of  the  congregation  should  also  take  him 
by  the  right  hand,  as  a  testimony  of  their  accepting  him 
as  the  minister  of  that  congregation. 

13.  After  this,  the  presiding,  or  some  other,  minister 
is  briefly  to  exhort  him  to  consider  the  greatness  of  his 
office  and  work;  the  danger  of  negligence  both  to  him- 
self and  his  people,  and  the  blessing  which  will  accom- 
pany his  faithfulness,  in  this  life,  and  that  to  come.  He 
is  likewise  to  exhort  the  people  to  carry  themselves  ac- 
cording to  their  promise,  dutifully,  respectfully,  and 
kindly  to  him,  as  to  their  minister  in  the  Lord  :  pray- 
ing for  him,  accepting  his  message  in  humility  and  love, 
and  endeavouring  to  encourage  his  heart,  and  strengthen 
his  hands,  in  the  discharge  of  his  weighty  ministerial 
duties.  And  so,  by  prayer,  commending  both  him  and 
his  flock  to  the  grace  of  God,  after  singing  a  psalm.,  let 

him  dismiss  the  assembly  with  a  blessing. 

9 


Of  Church  -  G  . :;:! .  [  Book  I . 

Formula  rf  Questions/^  Ministers  at  tick  Ordinat: 

DO  you  believe  the  holy  scriptures  of  the  Old  and  "v  w  Testaments 
to  be  the  word  or  flic  living  God,  the  nd  only  rule  of 

i  and  practice,  to  which  nothing  is  to  be  added,  and  hum  which 
nothing  is  to  be  taken,  at  any  time,  or  upon  any  pretext,  whether 
of  new  revelations  of  the  Spirit,  or  traditions  of  i. 
D.)  you  receive  the  doctrine  of  this  church,  contained  in  the  Confes- 
sion and  Catechisms,  as  founded  on  the  word  of  God,  and  as  the 
expression  of  your  own  faith  ?  And  do  you  resolve  to  adhere  there- 
to, in  opposition  to  all  Deistical,  Popish,  Arian,  Socinian,  Armi- 
nian,   Neonomian,  and   Sectarian  errors,  and  all  inions 

which  are  contrary  to  sound  doctrine  and  the  power  of  godliness  ? 
Do  you  approve  the  form  of  Presbyterial  church-government,  and 
the  Directories  for  worship,  received  by  this  church,  as  agn 
to,  ;.nd  founded  on,  the  word  of  God?      And  do  you  resolve  to 
maintain  and  observe  them  accordingly) 
Do  you  promise  to  submit,  in  the  spirit  of  meekness,  to  the  admo- 
riitions  of  the  brethren  of  this  Presbytery,  in  subordination  to  the 
Synod  ?     And  do  you  promise  to  maintain  the  unity  of  the  Spirit 
in  the  bond  of  peace;  and  that  you  will  not  follow  any  divisive 
courses,  by  complying  with  the  defections  oi  the  times,  or  by  gi\  - 
ing  yourself  up  to  a  detestable  neutrality  in  the  cause  of  God  ? 
Arc-  not  zeal  for  the  glory  of  God,  and  a  desire  of  being  instrumen- 
tal in  edifying  his  Church,  the  principal  motives  which  induce 
you  to  take  the  office  of  a  pastor  to  this  con- legation? 
Have  you  used  any  undue  methods  to  procure  your  call  to  the  office 

of  pastor? 
Do  you  sincerely  resolve  to  rule  your  family  in  the  fear  of  the  Lord, 
and  to  be  circumspect  in  the  whole  of  your  conversation,  folloW- 
ig  after  righteousness,  faith,  charity?    And  do yoa  also  promise 
to  promote  the  edification  of  the  body  of  Christ,  by  endeavour* 
,  to  perform  all  the  official  duties  incumbent  upon  you  with 
ll  and  fidelity? 
!>')  you  accept  the  call  to  be  the  pastor  of  this  congregation  ?     And 
do  you  promise  to  preach  the  gospel,  not  with  the  enticing  words 
of  man's  wisdom,  but  in  the  purity  and  simplicity  thereof;  not 
shunning  to  declare  the  whole  counsel  of  God;  to  catechise  and 
exhort  from  house  to  house;  to  visit  the  sick;  ami  to  perform 
what  other  duties  are  incumbent  upon  you,  as  a  faithful  minister 
Christ,  for  convincing  and  reclaiming  sinner-,  and  for  build- 
ing up  saints  in  their  most  holy  faith? 
Do  you  make  these  promises  as  in  :  Him  who  scarch- 

eth  the  hearts,  and  trieth  the  reius  ol  thi  children  oi  men,  and  as 
you  would  desire  to  give  in  your  account  w  i  .  real  day 

oi  the  i  ice,  when  He  shall  come,  and  all  his 

.'ii .- 


The  Presbytery.  503 

Sect.  V.     Of  the  Translation  of  Ministers. 

1.  Since  ministers  are  officers  of  the  church  at  large, 
they  may,  upon  weighty  reasons,  be  translated  from  one 
pastoral  charge  to  another. 

2.  Translation  is  the  act  of  a  Presbytery  ;v  nor  may 
any  minister,  without  such  an  act,  forsake  his  own  con- 
gregation. 

3.  Forasmuch  as  the  hasty  and  causeless  translation 
of  ministers  may  create  jealousies  and  distentions,  and 
otherwise  endanger  the  peace  and  comfort  of  the  church, 
Presbyteries  should  acr,  in  this  matter,  with  great  cau- 
tion, deliberation,  and  tenderness,  towards  all  parties 
concerned, 

4.  A  call  for  a  settled  minister  is  to  be  prepared  in 
the  same  manner  as  one  for  a  probationer,  or  a  minis- 
ter without  a  charge. 

5.  When  such  a  call  hath  been  regularly  laid  before 
a  Presbytery,  they  shall  summon  the  congregation  in 
which  the  minister  is  settled,  and  that  by  which  he  is 
called,  to  appear,  by  their  commissioners,  on  a  day  ap- 
pointed for  that  purpose^  that  the  reasons  both  for  and 
against  the  translation,  may  be  fairly  and  fully  stated 
and  discussed.  If  his  congregation  send  no  commis- 
sioners, they  shall  be  considered  as  acquiescing  in  the 
call.  If,  by  their  commissioners,  they  oppose  the  call, 
the  Presbytery,  after  a  patient  and  impartial  hearing, 
and  with  their  view  fixed  on  the  general  good  of  the 
church,  shall  decide  on  the  propriety  or  impropriety  of 
the  proposed  translation.  If  they  and  the  minister  cal- 
led accede  to  it,  they  shall  forthwith  dissolve  his  pas- 
toral relation  to  his  present  charge,  and  proceed  to  set- 
tle him  in  the  congregation  whither  he  is  called. 

6.  The  Presbytery  shall  always  enter  upon  their  mi- 
nutes their  reasons  for  translating  a  minister ;  and  where 
that  measure  is  likely  to  give  much  dissatisfaction  to  his 
people,  a  copy  of  the  reasons  shall  be  extracted  from  the 

y  Acts  xiii.  1 — 3, 


Of  Church-C  nent.  [Book  I. 

minutes,  and  sent  to  them  by  their  commissioner  or 
commissioners. 

7.  After  the  translation' of  a  minister  hath  been  de- 
termined by  the  Presbytery,  his  settlement  is  to  be  con- 
dueled  in  the  same  manner  as  at  his  ordination;  ex- 
cepting, however,  the  trials,  imposition  of  hands,  the 
right  hand  of  fellowship  by  ministers,  so  much  of  the 
formula  as  doth  not  relate  to  his  new  connection;  and 
the  presence  of  the  Presbytery.  Though  this  be  de- 
sirable, yet  a  single  minister,  by  Presbyterial  appoint- 
ment, is  competent  to  instal  one  who  hath  been  for- 
med v  ordained. 

8.  When  a  minister  judges  it  necessary  to  demit  his 
charge  to  the  Presbyter)-,  he  must  give  his  reasons,  a 
copy  of  which  shall  be  sent  by  the  clerk  to  his  congre- 
gation, and  they  shall  be  desired,  if  they  have  any  ob- 
jections, to  represent  them  to  the  Presbytery  as  soon  as 
possible,  by  an  authorized  commissioner.  The  Pres- 
bytery shall  then  proceed  and  decide  as  in  the  case  of 
translation  from  one  charge  to  another. 

Sect.   VI.      General  Rules   concerning  Licensures, 
Ordinations,  and  Translations. 

i.  Every  licensure,  ordination,  and  instalment  must 
be  directed  by  the  authority  of  the  Presbytery  within! 
whose  bounds  it  takes  place;  and,  therefore,  students  of 
iriity,  probationers,  and  ministers  must  obtain  a  re- 
gular dismission  from  the  Presbytery  to  which  they 
belong,  before  they  can  be  licensed,  ordained,  or  foi- 
led, by  the  authority  of  another. 

2.  Probationers  or  ministers  must  be  translated  from' 
jurisdiction  of  one  Presbytery  to  that  of  another,  on:' 

the  application  of  the  latter  to  the  former,  or  by  the 
authority  of  Syn 

3.  A  call  from  a  vacancy  in  one  Presbytery,  to  a  pro- 
bationer, or  minister  in  another,  must  be  addressed  to 
the  former,  and  by  them  transmitted  to  the  latter,  that 

lay  be  presented  to  the  candidate,  and  he  regularly 


The  Presbytery.  505 

transferred  to  the  Presbytery  by  whose  authority  he  is 
to  be  ordained  or  installed. 

4.  Students  of  divinity,  probationers,  or  ministers, 
removing  with  the  consent  of  their  Presbytery,  shall  re- 
ceive a  Presbyterial  certificate,  suited  to  their  respective 
conditions. z 

5.  Every  Presbytery  shall  keep  exact  records  of  per- 
sons licensed,  ordained,  and  installed,  with  their  testi- 
monials, the  time  and  place  of  their  licensures,  ordina- 
tions, and  instalments;  as  also  of  the  increase  of  their 
members,  probationers,  and  students ;  of  removals  and 
deaths ;  and  shall  make  a  report  thereof  to  the  Synod  at 
their  next  meeting. 

6.  No  money  or  gift  of  any  kind  shall  be  received 
from  the  person  to  be  licensed,  ordained,  or  installed^. 
or  from  any  on  his  behalf,  for  licensure,  ordination,  or 
instalment,  or  ought  else  belonging  to  them,  by  any  of 
the  Presbytery,  or  any  appertaining  to  any  of  them,  upon 
what  pretence  soever.  Only  the  necessary  expences 
contracted  by  the  members  of  the  Presbytery  in  attend- 
ing an  ordination  or  instalment,  should  be  borne  by  the 
congregation  where  the  settlement  is  made. 

7.  In  all  ordinary  cases,  the  regulations  of  this,  and 
of  the  four  sections  immediately  preceding,  are  to  be 
strictly  observed  :  but  in  the  cases  of  great  and  pressing 
emergency,  Presbyteries  are  to  proceed  in  licensing  pro- 
bationers, and  ordaining  and  installing  ministers,  as, 
after  mature  deliberation,  they  shall  judge  prudent ; 
conforming  themselves,  however,  to  the  order  prescrib- 
ed, as  closely  as  necessity  will  permit ;  and  making  an 
accurate  statement  to  the  Synod  of  their  deviations  from 
it,  and  of  the  reasons  of  such  deviations. 


For  the  form  of  these  certificates  see  Appendix  I.  No.  8,  9, 


s 


(    s<*    ) 

CHAP.  VI. 

Of  Synodical  Assemblies. 

These  are  either  particular  or  general. 

Sect.  I.     Of  the  Particular  Synod. 

i.  r  |  ^HIS  Synod  is  immediately  superior  to  the  Pres^ 
bytery,  and  consists  of  several  Presbyteries  met 
together  for  their  mutual  help  and  comfort,  and  for  ma- 
naging the  affairs  of  the  churches  under  their  inspection. 
2.  The  Synod  hath  power  to  decide  on  references  and 
appeals,  brought  regularly  before  them  from  Presbyte- 
ries— to  examine,  censure,  or  approve  their  records — 
to  try  all  causes  in  which  a  Presbytery  is  a  party  :  if  found 
guilty  of  flagrant  misdemeanors  in  their  judicial  capa- 
city, to  censure  them  according  to  the  nature  of  their 
offence — to  erect  new  Presbyteries — to  unite  or  divide 
those  which  are  already  erected — to  appoint  days  of 
fasting;  and  thanksgiving  throughout  their  bounds — to 
employ  members  ot  Presbyteries,  or  probationers  be- 
longing to  any  of  them,  in  public  service — to  give  ad- 
vice to  Presbyteries — and,  generally,  to  make  such  re- 
gulations, with  respect  to  Presbyteries,  Sessions,  and 
people  under  their  care,  as  do  not  interfere  with  the 
ei  ublished  order  of  the  church. 

Sect.  II.     Of  the  General  Synod. 

i.  When  the  multiplication  of  Presbyteries,  and 
their  distances  from  each  other,  render  it  impracticable 
or  unedifying  to  meet  all  in  one  Synod,  it  is  proper 
that  they  be  divided  into  two  or  more,  as  their  circum- 
stances may  require. 

2.  It  is  lawful  and  requisite,  for  the  maintenance  of 
union,  and  for  the  promotion  of  the  common  interest- 
that  all  the  particular  Synods  meet  together,  by  Pre3~ 
bytcrial  delegation,  in  one  general  Synod. a 

a  Afts  xv. 


The  Synod,  507 

3.  Delegates  to  the  general  Synod  shall  be  appor- 
tioned as  "follows :  Every  Presbytery  containing  not 
more  than  two  ministers,  shall  be  entitled  to  send  one 
minister  and  one  elder ;  and  for  every  three  ministers 
above  that  number,  one  minister  and  one  elder  more. 
This  proportion  shall  be  preserved  till  the  number  of 
delegates  exceed  thirty ;  after  which  each  Presbytery 
consisting  of  more  than  ten  ministers,  shall,  for  every 
four  additional  ministers,  be  entitled  to  send  one  mi- 
nister and  one  elder. 

4.  Delegates  to  the  general  Synod  must  produce 
commissions  signed  by  the  moderator  and  clerk  of  the 
Presbytery  by  whom  they  are  sent ;  nor  can  they,  with- 
out such  commissions,  be  entitled  to  a  seat.£ 

6.  Nine  delegates  shall  constitute  a  quorum  for  bu- 
siness. 

7.  The  general  Synod,  thus  constituted,  is,  in  every 
respect,  to  the  particular  Synods,  what  the  latter  are 
to  the  Presbyteries  within  their  bounds.  It  is  also  the 
province  of  the  general  Synod,  to  decide  questions  re- 
specting doctrine  and  discipline — to  bear  testimony 
against  errors  and  immoralities — to  correspond  with 
other  churches ;  and,  in  general,  to  preside  over  the 
religious  interes-ts  of  the  church  at  large.  But  no  re- 
gulations intended  to  be  universal  and  permanent  shall 
be  established,  without  previously  transmitting  them 
to  the  several  Presbyteries,  that  they  may  have  time  to 
consider  .and  report  their  judgment  thereon. 

8.  The  particular  Synods  are  required  to  be  very 
strict  in  calling  the  several  Presbyteries  to  account,  with 
respect  to  their  punctuality  in  sending  delegates  to  the 
general  Synod,  and  censuring  such  as  are  found  negli- 
gent. Presbyteries  are  to  observe  equal  strictness  in 
examining  their  delegates  with  respect  to  their  attend- 
ance, and  in  censuring  delinquents. 


h  For  the  form  of  a  commission  see  Appendix  I.  No.  io. 


(     508     ) 

CHAP.  VII. 

General  Rules  to  be  observed  in  Judicata 

Sect.  I.     Of  their  Constitution. 

i.  ~T~?  VERY  stated  meeting  of  a  Judicatory,  church 
jT:'j  sessions  excepted,  is,  ordinarily,  to  be  intro- 
duced with  a  sermon  by  the  last  moderator;  who  shall 
also,  with  solemn  prayer,  constitute  the  court  in  the 
name  of  the  Lord  Jesus  Christ,  and  shall  preside 
till  another  moderator  be  chosen. 

2.  To  avoid  inconvenience,  a  substitute  shall  be  ap- 
pointed to  preach  before  the  Judicatory  in  case  of  the 
moderator's  absence. 

3.  If  the  last  moderator  be  absent,  the  oldest  minis- 
ter present  shall  take  his  place. 

4.  Excepting  in  church-sessions,  moderators  are  to 
be  elected  in  the  following  manner  : — The  moderator, 
for  the  time  being,  shall  nominate  two  ministers,  and 
out  of  these  one  is  to  be  elected  by  ballot. 

5.  Every  Judicatory  is  to  have  a  clerk,  who  may  ei- 
ther be  a  member  thereof  or  not,  as  shall  be  deemed 
expedient.  He  is  to  be  chosen  by  an  open  vote,  un- 
less two  or  more  members  of  the  Judicatory  be  proposed ; 
in  which  case  he  shall  be  elected  by  ballot. 

Sect.  II.    Of  the  Office  of  the  Moderator. 

1.  The  moderator  is  to  begin  and  conclude  every 
sitting  of  the  Judicatory  with  a  short  and  pertinent 
prayer. 

2.  The  moderator,  as  the  mouth  of  the  Judicatory, 
is  to  propound  the  subjects  of  deliberation — to  confine 
speakers  to  the  point  under  consideration — to  put  the 
question  when  the  members  are  prepared  to  vote  ;  pre- 
viously to  which  he  shall  give  a  clear  and  concise  state- 
ment of  it — to  prevent  members  from  leaving  the  Judi- 
catory without  permission  from  himself — todecide  ques- 
tions of  order,  subject,  however,  to  the  judgment  of 
the  Judicatory — to  give  the  casting  vote  in  all  equal  di- 


Rules  for  "Judicatories.  509 

yisions — to  enforce  the  strict  observation  of  the  rules  of 
procedures — and,  in  general,  to  maintain  the  dignified 
order  necessary  in  a  court  met  in  the  name  of  Jesus. 

3.  Although  the  moderator,  from  the  nature  of  his 
office,  cannot  take  a  part  in  the  deliberations  of  a  Judi- 
catory, yet  he  may  propose  what  appears  to  him  the 
most  eligible  method  of  conducting  any  particular  bur- 
siness;  and,  incases  of  any  intricacy,  it  is  proper  and 
respectful  that  his  judgment  be  requested  by  the 
court. 

Sect.  III.     Of  the  Office  of  the  Clerk. 

1.  The  clerk  is  to  be  a  person  of  religious  character, 
and  of  good  reputation  for  prudence  and  fidelity.  On 
entering  upon  his  office,  he  shall  promise  the  faithful 
discharge  of  its  duties,  and  is  to  continue  during  the 
pleasure  of  the  Judicatory. 

2.  He  is  to  insert  nothing  in  the  minutes  but  by  di- 
rection of  the  moderator;  and  every  minute  of  import- 
ance is  immediately  to  be  read  for  the  approbation  of 
the  Judicatory. 

3.  He  is  carefully  to  preserve  the  papers  and  books 
of  the  Judicatory;  nor  is  he  to  give  extracts  from  them 
(except  to  members  or  parties  concerned)  without  their 
order;  nor  is  he,  without  such  an  order,  to  let  the  ori- 
ginal documents  go  out  of  his  hands ;  nor  to  expose  the; 
records  of  the  private  transactions  of  the  court,  or  any 
part  of  them. 

c  These  are  in  Appendix  II. 


(    5*e    ) 

BOOK     II. 

Of  Discipline. 

CHAP.  I. 

General  Principles  of  Discipline. 

j.  TN  the  imperfect  and  mingled  state  of  the  visible 
Jj^  church,  disorders  cannot  be  altogether  avoided. 
But,  from  the  ungodliness  of  carnal  professors  of  reli- 
gion (whom  the  utmost  vigilance  of  church-officers 
cannot  always  exclude)  and  from  remaining  depravity 
even  in  the  truly  gracious,  offences  or  scandals 
do,  and  must  frequently  arise.fi 

2.  An  offence  or  scandal  is  not  every  thing 
which  displeaselh.  It  is,  in  scripture,  directly  opposed 
to  edification,  and,  properly  speaking,  is  something 
in  a  professor's  carriage  which  either  in  itself,  or  from 
its  circumstances,  may  tempt  others  to  sin,  or  may,  in 
any  respect,  mar  their  spiritual  edification  or  comfort. b 

3.  To  remove  scandals,  and  to  prevent  their  unhappy 
effects,  is  the  design  of  discipline.  For  this  pur- 
pose it  hath  been  instituted  by  the  Lord  Jesus 
Christ  \c  nor  can  a  church,  without  the  faithful  and 
spiritual  application  of  it,  hope  for  his  countenance  and 
blessing.fi7 

4.  The  exercise  of  discipline  is  highly  important  and 
necessary, 

1st.  For  vindicating  the  honour  of  Jesus  Christ, 
that  suffcrcth  by  the  miscarriage  of  professors.*? 

2d.  For  maintaining  the  dignity  of  his  ordinances, 
and  chastening  disobedience  thereto./ 

3d.  For  averting  the  judgments  of  God,  which  arc 


a  Mat.  xviii.  7.    A&svitf.  13.  b  Rom.  xiv.  13,  20,  21.    Rev. 

ii.  14.  <•  Mat.  wiii.  17.     1  Cor.  v.  13.  J  Rev.  ii.  5,  16,  &c. 

c  1  Tim.  viii.  1.         /"  2  Cor.  ii.  6.     x.  6. 


General  Principles .  $  1 1 

threatened  against  such  churches  as  are  not  zealous  ia 
purging  out  scandals.^ 

4th.  For  preserving  the  purity  of  the  church,  that 
the  profane  leaven  do  not  spread  and  infect  the  whole 
body.// 

5th.  For  the  benefit  of  the  offender  himself,  that  by 
the  impartial  administration  of  this  ordinance  oIChrist, 
he  may,  through  grace,  be  humbled,  ashamed,  reco- 
vered from  his  sin./ 

5.  Hence  it  is  evident,  that  nothing  ought  to  be  ad- 
mitted, by  any  Judicatory,  as  a  ground  of  censure, 
which  cannot  be  proved  scandalous  from  the  word  of 
God,  or  from  the  regulations  and  practice  of  the  church 
founded  thereon;  and  which  doth  not  involve  those 
evils,  for  the  prevention  of  which  church  discipline  is 
instituted. £ 

6.  From  the  ends  of  discipline  it  is  farther  manifest, 
that  scandals  of  the  same  kind  are  not  always  to  be 
treated  in  the  same  manner :  since  what  may  edify  in 
one  case,  may  destroy  edification  in  another.  Church 
officers  are,  therefore,  wisely  to  consider  occasion,  time, 
place,  disposition  of  offenders,  present  state  of  the  church, 
and  other  circumstances,  which,  in  different  cases,  may 
greatly  vary  their  manner  of  proceeding  for  the  attain- 
ment of  the  same  end.  Nor  is  this  to  be  accounted  par- 
tiality, or  respecting  of  persons  in  judgment,  provided 
nothing  be  done  from  carnal  considerations.  For  as  the 
principle  is  di&ated  by  sound  reason ;  so  it  is  sanctioned 
by  apostolic  example,  and  exhibited,  in  the  scripture, 
for  our  direction./ 

7.  Exercise  of  discipline  being  one  of  the  most  deli- 
cate and  difficult  parts  of  the  duty  of  church-officers,  and 
in  which  their  discretion  may  be  highly  salutary,  or  their 
indiscretion  highly  pernicious,  it  is  incumbent  on  them, 
in  the  discharge  of  it,  to  use  their  utmost  prudence  and 
circumspedion;  to  blend  tenderness  with  fidelity,  and 

g  Rev.  ti.  5,  16,  &c.     //  1  Cor.  v.  6,  7.     *  1  Cor.  v.  5.     k  Rom, 
mv.  i.     /  i  Tim,  i.  20.     Gal.  v.  12.     Jude  i.  23. 


5i2  Of  Church-Government.  [Book  II. 

moderation  with  firmness;  and  to  implore  from  the 
head  or  the  church,  both  jointly  and  separately,  that 
wisdom  which  is  prolitable  to  direct. 


CHAP.  II. 

Of  Private  Scandals. 

i.TT^RIVATE  scandals  are  those  which  are  known 
only  to  an  individual,  or,  at  most,  to  a  few. 

2.  These  arc  not  to  be  immediately  prosecuted  before 
a  Church  Judicatory  ;  as  it  would  be  attended  with 
great  and  serious  evils — it  would  wear  the  appearance 
of  personal  malice — would  alienate  the  aftedions  of 
members  from  each  other — would  open  numerous  sour- 
ces of  angry  and  vexatious  litigation — would  probably 
exasperate  and  harden  the  offender  instead  of  reclaiming 
him — would  grieve  the  hearts  of  the  godly — would 
stumble  many  who  otherwise  would  not  be  stumbled — ■ 
would  bring  a  reproach  on  the  name  of  Christ— 
would  tend  to  break  the  peace  of  the  church — to  engen- 
der divisions — to  render  the  discipline  of  Christ's 
house  contemptible  and  odious;  and  would  thus  be- 
come more  scandalous  than  the  scandals  which  it  was 
intended  to  remove. 

3.  In  all  cases  of  private  scandal,  it  is  necessary  to 
observe  the  comely  order  prescribed  by  our  Lord  Je- 
sus Christ. 

First.  The  person  offended  is  to  go  privately  to  his 
offending  brother,  and,  dealing  faithfully  with  his  con- 
science, is  to  trv  the  effect  of  serious,  affectionate  re- 
monstrance. 'I'd!  /:;;>!  his  fault  be  tic  ecu  thee  and  him 
alon  e.  Nor  is  the  duty  to  be  viewed  as  fulfilled  by  a 
single  admonition.  It  is  to  be  so  often  repeated,  and  at 
such  intervals,  as  may  give  a  fair  opportunitv,  to  pro- 
duce the  effecl.  11  this  succeed,  the  offence  is  done 
away,  and  a  transgressor  recovered,  without  disturbing 
the  quiet,  or  sullying  the  reputation,  of  the  church.- 
Thou  hast  rained  thy  brother. 


Public  Scandals.  513 

Secondly.  Due  time,  after  these  attempts,  being  al- 
lowed for  reflection,  and  for  manifesting  some  reforma- 
tion, if  the  offender  continue  in  his  sinful  course,  the 
brother  who  admonished  him  is  to  take  with  him  two  or 
three  more  members  of  the  church,  and  in  the  spirit  of 
meekness,  to  repeat,  in  their  presence,  his  former  ex- 
postulations :  they  are  also  to  join  in  endeavouring  to  re- 
claim the  offender ;  warning  him  of  his  danger,  and  of 
the  necessity  which  his  obstinacy  will  impose  on  them, 
of  bringing  him  before  the  bar  of  the  church. 

Thirdly.  If,  on  due  forbearance,  it  appear  that  these 
tender  and  Christian  proceedings  are  disregarded,  the 
whole  affair  shall  be  represented  to  the  Judicatory  to 
which  the  offender  is  immediately  subject.  If  he  neg- 
lecl  to  hear  them,  tell  it  unto  the  church.w 

4.  Informers  who  have  not  taken  these  previous 
Steps,  shall  themselves  be  considered  as  scandalous,  and 
treated  accordingly. 


CHAP.  III. 

0/*Public  Scandals. 

1.  TJUBLIC  Scandals  are  those  which  are  socircum- 
\^_     stanced  as  to  require  the  cognizance  of  a  Judi- 
catory. 

2.  It  often  may,  and  does  happen,  that  a  scandal  may 
be  gross  in  itself,  and  known  to  several,  while  yet  it 
cannot  be  pursued  to  conviction.  In  such  cases,  though 
it  be  afflicting  to  upright  men  to  see  the  church  of 
Christ  profaned  with  impunity;  yet  it  is  proper  to 
forbear,  till  the  Lord  shall  bring  to  light  the  hidden 
things  of  darkness:  since  nothing  tends  more  to  wea- 
ken  the  authority  of  discipline,  and  to  multiply  scan- 
dals, than  Judicatories  commencing  processes  against  of- 
fenders, and  failing  in  their  proof. 

3.  Offences  are  public,  i.  e.  are  to  be  brought  before 
Church  Judicatories  for  trial : 

m  Mat.  xviii.   i£ — 17. 

3T 


5 1 4  Of  DiscipUnt .  [Book  1 1. 

ivW/.  When  they  arc  not  removed  by  the  method 
laid  down  in  the  preceding  chapter.  In  such  cases,  a 
scandal,  though  at  first  private,  is  aggravated,  by  ob- 
stinacy, into  an  evil  which  requires,  as  the  last  human 
remedy,  the  interference  of  public  authority  :  and  it  is 
then  the  duty  ot  the  person  offended  to  lay  it,  with  its 
evidence,  and  the  means  which  it  hath  resisted,  before 
the  proper  Judicatory.      Tell  it  to  the  church. 

Secondly.  When  a  scandal,  gross  in  its  nature,  is  so 
notorious  and  open,  that  many  are  in  danger  of  being 
infected,  it  is  immediately  to  be  inquired  into  judici- 
ally; nor  is  private  admonition  at  all  necessary  to  ripen 
it  for  a  proe\ 

Thirdly.  When  a  scandal  is  rumoured  abroad,  even 
though  it  doth  not  appear  to  have  been  committed  be- 
fore a  considerable  number  or  witnesses,  it  falls  under 
the  cognizance  ot  the  Church  Judicatory.  It  is  the 
duty  of  members  who  hear  such  reports  to  acquaint  the 
Judicatory.  Nor  is  previous  expostulation,  in  private, 
either  necessary  or  proper  :  because  the  scandal  is  not 
in  any  sense  private  ;  and  because  the  credit  of  religion, 
especially  in  that  branch  of  the  church  to  which  the 
scandal  is  attached,  may  greatly  suffer  before  private 
admonition  can  produce  its  effect. 

This  ground  of  process  is  denominated  in  church 
d  isci  pli  ne,  F  A  ma  c  l  a  m  o  s  a  ,  (crying  fame)  and  the 
management  of  it  requires  the  greatest  prudence. 

It  is  not  every  tale  of  scandal  which  amounts  to  a 
fama  clamosa.  In  order  to  this  it  is  indispensible, 
ist.  That  the  report  specify  some  particular  sin  or  sins  : 
2dly.  That  it  be  wide  spread :  gdly.  That  it  be  not 
transient:  dthly.  That  it  be  accompanied  with  public 
presumptions  of  its  truth. 

4.  When  scandals,  originally   private,  are  brought 
before  a  Judicatory,   it  may  often  be  expedient  to  deal 
1  the  scai  person  by  a  deputation  of  members 

in  order  to  gain  him,  without  resorting  to  a  formal  pro- 
cess. 


'Processes  $i$ 

CHAP.  IV. 

Of  Processes  in  general. 

I,  TT  THEN  all  other  means  of  removing  a  scandal 
V  V     are  found  ineffectual,  the  Judicatory  which 
hath  immediate  cognizance  thereof,  is  to  take  it  under 
the  most  serious  judicial  consideration. 

2.  No  person  can  be  admitted  as  an  accuser,  who 
jeither  is,  at  the  time  of  accusation,  or  who  hath  been 
recently,  at  enmity  with  the  person  accused ;  or  who  is 
employed  by  another  to  accuse ;  or  who  is  not  of  intire 
fame;  or  who  is  actually  under  censure,  or  process  for 
censure.  Judicatories  are  also  to  be  exceedingly  cau- 
tious in  receiving  accusations  from  any  who  have  the 
prospect  of  temporal  advantage  from  the  accusation,  or 
of  temporal  disadvantage,  from  its  failure :  as  likewise, 
in  receiving  them  from  any  who,  though  not  of  ill  re- 
pute, are  known  to  be  trifling,  officious,  querulous, 
passionate,  rash,  or  imprudent. 

3.  No  person  can  be  compelled  to  become  an  ac- 
cuser. 

4.  All  processes,  raised  at  the  instance  of  a  party 
complaining,  against  scandals  originally  private,  must 
be  pursued  in  the  name  of  the  compjajner ;  and  he 
bound  to  make  out,  not  only  the  proof  of  the  scandal, 
but  of  his  previous  Christian  demeanor  with  regard  to 
it,  on  peril  of  being  himself  censured  as  a  scandalous 
person. 

5.  In  all  other  processes  for  public  scandals  there  is 
no  need  of  an  accuser;  nor  is  the  name  of  the  informer, 
without  his  consent,  to  be  given  up.  Yet  if  the  inno- 
cence of  the  party  charged  be  satisfactorily  cleared,  the 
Judicatory  is  to  inquire  whether  the  information  was 
lodged  through  malice,  or  imprudence,  or  otherwise, 
and  to  deal  with  the  informer  accordingly. 

6.  Although  a  process  for  scandal  be  relinquished  by 
the  party  who  commenced  it,  yet  it  may  not  therefore 
be  dismissed  by  a  Judicatory;  since  the  support  of  dis- 


5 1 6  Of  Discipline.  [Book  If. 

cipline,  the  recovery  of  the  offender,  and  the  edification 
of  the  church,  are  concerned  in  bringing  it  to  an  issue. 

7.  In  a  judicial  process  it  is  requisite  that  the  scandal 
be  libelled — the  offender  cited — proof  adduced — and 
sentence  given. 

Of  Libels. 

1.  A  libel  is  a  written  charge  of  scandal  preferred 
against  an  individual  by  judicial  authority.  It  consists 
ot  two  parts,  whereof  the  first  contains  the  scandal  it- 
self, and  the  second  charges  it  in  point  of  fact,  on  a 
particular  person.  Thus,  if  A.  B.  were  prosecuted  for 
drunkenness,  the  libel  would  set  forth,  first,  the  hein- 
ousness  of  the  sin,  and  then,  that  A.  B.  hath  actually 
committed  \i.n  But,  in  ordinary  cases,  it  may  be  suf- 
ficient simply  to  state  the  charges  against  the  offender. 

2.  Every  libel,  excepting  those  grounded  on  afama 
(lamosa,o  must  specify  not  only  the  scandal  libelled,  but 
also  time  and  place,  that  the  person  accused  may  have 
the  benefit  of  every  circumstance  which  can  contribute 
to  his  vindication. 

3.  In  the  case  of  fama  clamosa,  it  often  happens,  that 
though  the  scandal  be  exceedingly  flagrant,  yet  the  cir- 
cumstances of  time  and  place  are  very  difficult  to  be 
proved ;  and,  therefore,  in  such  cases  the  charge  in  the 
libel  should  be  couched  in  more  general  terms. 

When  a  complaint  is,  in  the  judgment  of  a  Judicato- 
ry, clearly  vexatious  and  frivolous,  they  are  to  endeavour 
to  convince  and  satisfy  the  complainer;  but,  on  no 
consideration  to  grant  a  libel. 

Of  Citations. 

1.  When  it  is  judged  proper  to  prefer  a  libel  against 
an  offender,  he  shall,  by  a  written  citation,  signed  by 
the  moderator  and  clerk  of  the  Judicatory,  or  either  of 
them,  be  summoned,  at  least  eight  live  days,  to  appear 
at  the  bar  of  the  Judicatory,  and  put  in  his  answer. 

«  Appendix  I.  No.  It.  »  See  chap.  iii.  3. 


Processes. 


5*7 


1.  Every  citation  must  specify,  1st.  The  Judicatory 
before  which  the  offender  is  to  appear:  2d.  The  name 
of  the  offender  :  3d.  The  time  and  place  of  appearance : 
and,  4th,  The  name  of  the  prosecutor, unless  the  process 
be  instituted  by  the  Judicatory.  It  must  also  be  ac- 
companied, in  the  first  instance,  with  a  copy  of  the  li- 
bel.^ 

3 .  A  citation  is  also  to  be  sent  to  all  who  are  designed 
as  witnesses,  provided  they  be  members  of  the  church  ;q 
other  persons,  and  members  of  other  churches,  can  only 
be  requested  to  appear. 

4.  If  the  offender  refuse  to  obey  his  summons,  he  is 
to  be  cited  again  within  at  least  ten  free  days  after  the 
day  first  appointed  for  his  appearance;  but  the  time  al- 
lotted him  after  his  second  summons,  is  left  to  the  dis- 
cretion of  the  Judicatory,  provided  it  be  not  less  than 
is  fully  sufficient  for  a  seasonable  appearance  before 
them.  A  second  neglect  or  refusal  shall  be  followed  by 
a  third  citation,  with  a  certification,  that  if  the  offen- 
der do  not  appear  at  the  time  appointed,  the  Judica- 
tory, besides  censuring  him  for  contumacy,  will  proceed 
to  try  the  libel  exhibited  against  him  as  if  he  were  pre- 
sent. 

5.  That  Judicatories  may  not  be  rash  or  unreasonable 
in  this  part  of  the  process,  they  are  to  be  well  ascertain- 
ed, before  they  order  a  second  or  third  citation,  that  the 
first  and  second  have  been  duly  served ;  and  for  this 
purpose,  the  person  appointed  to  serve  the  summons 
shall  certify  the  Judicatory  of  its  execution. 

6.  If  the  offender  appear,  or  if,  having  refused  to  ap- 
pear, he  be  proceeded  against  in  his  absence,  the  first 
thing  to  be  considered  is  the  relevancy  of  the  libel; 
that  is,  whether  the  thing  charged,  even  supposing  it 
to  be  proved,  is  really  censurable.  To  the  relevancy, 
the  person  accused  hath  always  a  right  to  object:;  but 
the  Judicatory  must  judge  of  the  weight  of  his  objec- 
tions. 

Ji  Appendix  I.  No.  is.        q  Appendix  I.  No.  13. 


5 1  a  Of  Discipline.  [Book  II. 

7.  If,  on  due  consideration,  the  libel  be  found  not 
relevant,  all  further  proceedings  are  precluded  of  comic ; 
but  if  it  be  sustained,  the  offender  is  to  be  interrogated 
respecting  the  matter  ot  fact.  If  he  acknowledge  it, 
the  way  is  prepared  for  a  decision;  but  if  he  deny  it, 
the  Judicatory  is  to  examine  the  proof  by  which  it  is 
supported ;  and  previously  to  give  him  a  list  of  the  wit- 
nesses. 

Of  Witnesses. 

1.  Witnesses,  who,  being  members  of  the  church, 
refuse  to  appear  and  give  their  testimony  when  legally 
summoned,  may  be  censured  for  contumacy. 

2.  Children,  idiots,  those  defective  in  any  of  the 
senses  on  which  the  accuracy  of  their  knowledge  and 
testimony  depends,  accusers,  persons  of  infamous  cha- 
racter, at  enmity  with  the  accused,  under  censure  or 
process  for  censure,  who  expect,  directly  or  indirectly, 
to  reap  any  temporal  advantage,  or  to  avoid  any  tem- 
poral disadvantage,  by  giving  testimony,  cannot  be 
admitted  as  witnesses  either  for  or  against  an  offender. 
On  any  of  these  grounds,  he  has  a  right  to  challenge  a 
witness,  and  the  Judicatory  is  candidly  to  hear  and  to, 
decide  on  his  exceptions. 

3.  Two  unexceptionable  witnesses,  at   least,  whose 
tisiony  goes  to  the  precise  act  charged  in  the  libel, 

and  to  the  circumstances  of  time  and  place  under  which 
it  is  stated  to  have  been  committed,  are  necessary  tq 
conviction. 

4.  In  those  cases,  however,  of  a  fama  clamosa,  in 
which  the  libel  charges  the  scandal  more  generally,  al- 
though there  be  not  two  concurring  testimonies  as  to 
the  same  act ;  yet  ij  '  unexceptionable  witnesses 
bear  testimony  to  different  similar  acts,  belonging  un- 
questionably to  the  scandal  charged,  the  Libel  shall  be 
considered  as  proved.  Thus,  it  a  person  be  accused 
on  a  fama  clamosa,  of  profane  swearing,  if  several  good 
wit;  stify;  one,  that  he  hath  heard  him  swear 
profanely  at  such  a  time  or  place;  another,  at  such  a 


Processes.  5 1 9 

time  or  place;  another,  at  such  a  time  or  place,  &c.  it 
shall  be  sufficient  for  conviction. 

5.  Witnesses  are  to  be  examined  in  the  presence  of 
the  accused,  who  is  at  liberty  to  cross-examine  them  : 
the  same  privilege  belongs  to  every  member  of  the  Ju- 
dicatory ;  but  no  questions  are  to  be  put  or  answered, 
except  through  the  moderator. 

6.  Every  witness,  before  his  testimony  is  heard,  must 
be  solemnly  purged  of  malice  against  the  accused,  or  of 
receiving  any  advantage,  directly  or  indirectly,  from  ap- 
pearing as  a  witness;  and  then  is  to  be  solemnly  sworn. 
The  oath  is  to  be  administered  by  the  moderator,  and 
to  be  taken  by  the  witness,  holding  up  his  right  hand  ; 
all  the  members  of  the  Judicatory,  and  others  present, 
standing,  s 

7.  The  depositions  of  witnesses  are  to  be  taken  down 
in  writing,  and  then  read  to  them,  that  mistakes  may 
be  corrected,  or  omissions  supplied;  after  which  they 
are  to  be  signed  by  the  deponents,  and  to  be  laid  up 
among  the  papers  of  the  Judicatory. 

8.  When  an  offence  is  committed  in  the  bounds  of  a 
Judicatory,  different  from  that  with  which  the  offender 
is  immediately  connected,  the  former  should  give  intel- 
ligence thereof  to  the  latter :  if  they  do  not,  the  latter,  on 
knowledge  thereof,  shall,  if  proof  cannot  otherwise  be  had, 
make  speedy  application  to  the  former,  who  shall  either 
cite  the  witnesses  before  the  said  Judicatory,  or  shall 
themselves  hear  the  testimony,  and  transmit  it  to  the 
applicants,  as  circumstances  may  require. 

9.  When  such  an  application  is  received  by  a  Judi- 
catory, and  the  distance  is  too  great  for  the  witnesses 
conveniently  to  repair  to  the  other,  the  Judicatory  ap- 
plied to  shall  appoint  a  day  for  hearing  the  cause,  at 
such  an  interval  as  shall  afford  the  offender  an  opportu- 
nity of  appearing  in  his  own  defence,  if  he  be  so  mind- 
ed :  of  which  time  information  shall  be  given  to  the 
moderator  of  the  Judicatory  applying,  and  by  him  sea- 
sonably notified  to  the  offender. 

i  Appendix  I.  No.  14. 


<io  Of  Discipline.  [Book  ll. 

Other  Proof. 

i.  The  records  of  a  Judicatory,  or  any  part  thereof, 
whether  original  or  transcribed,  if  authenticated  by  the 
moderator  and  clerk,  or  either  of  them,  shall  be  deemed 
good  and  sufficient  evidence  in  every  other  Judicatory. 

2.  Testimony  taken  before  a  Judicatory,  and  certi- 
fied as  above,  shall  be  received  by  every  other  as  no  less 
valid,  than  if  it  had  been  taken  before  themselves. 

3.  Genuine  private  papers,  such  as  letters,  &c.  shall 
be  admitted  in  proof,  unless  just  cause  can  be  shewn 
for  refusing  them. 

4.  Although  conviction  cannot  be  grounded  on  pre- 
sumptions alone,  yet  they  are  always  to  be  taken  in 
connection  with  the  testimony,  as  they  are  frequently  of 
essential  importance  in  establishing  or  destroying  its 
credibility ;  and  less  or  more  stress  is  to  be  laid  upon 
them,  as  they  arc  trivial,  probable,  or  violent. 

Of  Exculpation. 

1.  The  accused  hath  always  a  right  to  exculpate 
himself,  and  for  this  purpose  to  adduce  every  kind  of 
proof  which  is  admitted  against  him, 

2*  In  the  case  of  contradictory  evidence,  the  Ju- 
dicatory is  carefully  to  consider  the  nature,  cumber,; 
respectability,  and  circumstances  of  the  different 
proofs. 

3.  After  the  several  proofs  have  been  heard,  the  ac- 
cused shall  have  the  privilege  of  commenting  on  them, 

Of  Sentences. 

1.  The  accused  having  finished  his  remarks  or  de- 
fence, if  any  be  offered,  the  Judicatory  shall  seriously 
ponder  the  libel,  and  the  proofs,  together  with  the  ex- 
culpation, in  order  to  prepare  their  sentence. 

2.  It  is  not,  however,  to  be  understood,  that  Judica- 
tories are  bound  to  give  sentence  at  the  same  meeting 
at  which  the  cause  is  tried,  or  even  to  finish  the  trial  at 
one  meeting.     Herein  they  must  use  their  discretion, 


Processes  against  Ministers.  £21 

being  careful,  at  the  same  time,  that  a  process  be  not 
needlessly  protracted. 

3.  Sentences  are  either  absolutory,  which  acquit  the 
accused;  or  condemnatory  y  which  pronounce  him  guilty 
of  the  scandal  libelled  ;  or  mixed,  which  partly  acquit, 
and  partly  condemn. 


CHAP.  V. 

Of  Processes  against  Ministers. 

LL   processes   against  ministers  are  to  com- 
mence before  the  Presbyteries  to  which  they 
belong. 

2.  The  honour  and  success  of  the  gospel  being  inti- 
mately connected  with  the  unblemished  reputation  of 
ministers,  both  as  to  doctrine  and  conduct,  scandalous 
charges  are  not  to  be  received  by  any  Judicatory  upon 
slight  grounds ;  nor,  when  received,  to  be  negligently 
examined;  nor,  if  found  true,  to  be  slightly  censured. 

3.  That  the  faults  of  ministers  may  not  be  indis- 
creetly spared,  nor  rashly  made  the  subject  of  judicial 
cognizance,  the  same  candour,  caution,  and  method, 
substituting  only  the  Presbytery  for  the  Session,  are  to 
be  observed  in  investigating  charges  against  them,  as  are 
prescribed  in  the  case  of  private  members. 

4.  If  a  minister  be  convicted  of  such  principles  or 
conduct  as  are  clearly  and  grossly  scandalous,  the  Pres- 
bytery, whatever  be  his  repentance,  or  however  mani- 
fested, is  immediately  to  depose  him,  and  to  assign 
him  a  day  for  the  public  confession  of  his  sin,  and  pro- 
fession of  repentance. 

5.  A  minister,  accused  of  atrocious  crimes,  and  re- 
fusing, after  three  regular  citations,  to*appear  at  the  bar 
of  the  Presbytery,  shall  be  suspended  from  the  exercise 
of  his  office;  and  if  he  persist  in  his  contumacy,  may 
be  deposed  and  excommunicated. 

6.  Presbyteries  are  to  be  extremely  careful  of  involv- 
ing in  the  shame  and  severity  of  a  judicial  process  those 

2  U 


$n  Of  Discipline.  [Book  IT, 

irregularities  which  appear  to  be  merely  ads  of  infirmi- 
ty ;  and  those  errors  which  do  not  strike  at  the  vitals  of 
doctrinal  or  practical  godliness;  which  are  not  pertina- 
ciously adhered  to,  nor  mischievously  propagated  to  the 
subversion  of  the  order,  unity,  purity,  and  peace  of  the 
church.  They  are,  therefore,  thoroughly  to  sift  accu- 
sations against  ministers,  and  to  be  well  satisfied  respec- 
ting the  criminal  and  pernicious  nature  and  tendency 
of  the  scandal  charged,  before  they  allow  a  libel  to  be 
grounded  thereon.  And  they  are  to  use  special  diligence 
for  removing  those  uneasinesses  and  complaints  which 
arise  from  causes  that  will  not  warrant  a  process. 

7.  Calumniators  of  ministers  are  to  be  severely  cen- 
sured, and  in  proportion  to  the  malignity  or  rashness 
which  shall  appear  in  the  prosecution. 


c 


CHAP.  VI. 

Of  Censures. 

HUHCH  CENSURES,  being   entirely   of  a 
spiritual  nature,  cannot  operate  any  civil  effect. 

2.  As  they  are  among  the  most  important  means  by 
which  the  Lord  Jesus  reigns  in  his  church,  they  are 
to  be  employed  with  much  caution,  reverence,  and  so- 
lemnity ;  nor  can  there  be  a  greater  indignity  offered  to 
his  majesty,  than  to  prostitute  them  to  any  carnal  pur- 
poses. 

3.  Although  the  contempt  which  the  world  pours 
upon  ecclesiastical  censures  should  call  forth  the  exer- 
cise of  prudence,  yet  church-officers,  being  clothed  with 
the  authority  of  their  King,  are  not  thereby  to  be  detei  - 
red  from  the  faithful  discharge  of  their  duty  ;  they  are 
rather  to  be  stimulated  to  double  vigilance,  lest  the 
barriers  which  Christ  hath  erected  to  separate  his 
church  from  the  world,  be  swept  away  by  the  torrent  of 
evil  opinion  and  evil  example. 

4.  The  Lord  Jesus  Christ  having  promised  that 
he  will  ratify  in  heaven,  those  censures  which,  in  his 


Censures.  523 

name,  and  according  to  his  appointment,  are  inflicted 
by  his  officers  upon  earth, <z  they  cannot  be  despised  but 
at  the  utmost  peril ;  and  will  be  found  to  have  a  serious 
influence  on  the  spiritual  condition  of  those  who  fall 
under  them. 

Church  censures  are  five  fold :  admonition,  rebuke,  sus- 
pension, deposition,  and  excommunication. 

Of  Admonition. 

1.  Admonition  is  the  lowest  degree  of  censure.  It 
consists  in  gently  reproving  an  offender,  for  his  sin  and 
scandal;  warning  him  of  his  guilt  and  danger;  and  ex- 
horting him  to  be  more  watchful  and  circumspect  for 
the  future.  It  supposes  the  offence  to  be  known  only 
to  a  few,  or  to  be  less  aggravated  in  its  circumstances. 

2.  It  ought  to  proceed  on  a  certain  knowledge  of  the 
sin  and  scandal  having:  been  committed ;  and  is  the 
first  step  which  should  be  taken  towards  the  offender's 
reformation. 

3.  Admonition,  in  the  case  of  a  private  church- 
member,  or  ruling  elder,  ought  to  be  administered  in 
private  by  one  or  more  members  of  Session :  in  the  case 
of  a  minister,  by  one  or  more  members  of  Presbytery. 

Of  Rebuke, 

1.  Rebuke  is  a  higher  degree  of  censure,  and  should 
be  administered  by  an  ecclesiastical  court  in  a  judicial 
capacity.  When  it  can  bp  done  without  injuring  the 
public  credit  of  religion,  Judicatures  may  find  it  for 
edification  to  rebuke  the  offender  in  private.  This  is 
particularly  necessary  in  cases  of  private  scandal,  and  it 
must  always  be  done  in  the  name  of  the  head  of  the 
church. 

2.  When  the  scandal  is  public,  and  the  sin  more  ag- 
gravated, it  is  proper  that  the  rebuke  be  publicly  ad- 
ministered. But  it  is  generally  expedient  that  rebukes, 
whether  private  or  public,  be  preceded  by  private  ad- 
monition. 

a  Mat.  xviiL  18. 


5 24  Of  Discipline.  [Book  II. 

Of  Suspension. 

i.  Suspension  relates  cither  to  the  private  members, 
or  to  the  officers  of  the  church.  With  respect  to  the  for- 
mer, it  is  a  temporary  judiral  exclusion  of  an  offender  from 
sealing  ordinances./?  With  respect  to  the  latter,  it  is  a 
temporary  judicial  exclusion  from  the  exercise  of  office. c 

2.  This  censure  is  attached  to  scandals  which  cannot 
be  removed  by  admonition  or  rebuke,  and  which  render 
it  improper  for  the  scandalous  person  to  remain  in  the 
actual  enjoyment  of  sacramental  privilege,  or  in  the 
exercise  of  office. 

3.  Suspensions  are  generally  indefinite  in  their  dura- 
on,  continuing  till  the  person  suspended  afford  signs  of 
tipenitence  which  may  warrant  their  repeal.  But  Judi- 
catories are  to  consider  how  far  it  may  be  expedient,  in 
certain  cases,  to  limit  their  operation  to  a  fixed  period. 

4.  Suspension,  unless  of  ministers,  may  be  either  pri- 
vate or  public.  The  former  is  oftentimes  indispensible, 
when  bringing  the  scandal  to  public  view,  would  be  un- 
necessary, yea,  highly  injudicious. 

5.  Sessions  may  find  it  their  duty  to  keep  back  from 
sealing  ordinances,  by  a  private  resolution,  members  of 
whom  scandalous  reports  are  corroborated  by  strong 
presumption^,  even  though  they  have  not  been,  or  can- 
not be  legally  convicted. 

6.  When  a  scandal,  or  the  charge  of  a  scandal  is 
made  public  so  near  tire  time  of  celebrating  the  sacra- 
ment of  the  supper,  that  there  is  not  leisure  for  a  due 
examination,  the  accused  person,  provided  his  offence, 
it  proved,  require  such  a  censure,  is  by  all  means  to  be 
restrained  from  communicating. 

7.  Suspension,  after  public  rebuke,  is  always  to  be 
public. 

8.  As  the  maintenance  of  the  honour  of  Christ,  the 
exoneration  of  church-officers,  and  the  warning  <>t 
others,  arc  principal  ends  of  censure,  it  is  not  necessary 

b  Appendix  I.  No.  15.  c  Appendix  I.  No.  16. 


Censures. 


S25 


to  the  propriety  of  a  public  suspension,  that  the  person 
suspended  be  actually  present.  But  this  does  not  ab- 
solve the  offender  from  his  obligation  to  appear ;  and  he 
is  to  be  strictly  required  thereto  by  the  Judicatory  cen- 
suring. 

Of  Deposition. 

i.  Deposition  is  the  judicial  degradation  of  an  officer 
from  his  office. d  Probationers,  though  they  may  be  sus- 
pended or  discharged,  having  never  been  invested  with 
office,  cannot,  properly,  be  deposed. 

2.  An  act  of  deposition  is  not  to  be  passed  but  with 
the  greatest  deliberation ;  and  for  the  most  important 
reasons.  It  is  ordinarily  to  be  preceded  by  suspension. 
It  is  not,  if  possible,  to  be  inflicted  on  ministers,  with- 
out Synodical  advice ;  nor  on  other  presbyters,  without 
the  advice  of  a  Presbytery. 

3.  When  a  minister  is  deposed,  his  congregation  is 
immediately  to  be  declared  vacant. 

4.  Deposition  doth  not  necessarily  draw  after  it  the 
censure  of  excommunication. 

Of  Excommunication. 

1.  Excommunication  is  the  judicial  excision  of  an  of- 
fender',  from  the  visible  church  of  Christ,  and  a  pro- 
nouncing him  to  belong  to  the  kingdom  of  Satan.e 

2.  Heinous  violations  of  the  law  of  God  in  practice, 
and  such  errors  in  principle  as  unhinge  the  christian 
profession,  are  the  only  scandals  for  which  the  sentence 
of  excommunication  shall  be  passed. 

3.  Even  on  those  enormous  scandals,  except  they 
be  accompanied  with  aggravations  of  peculiar  atrocitv, 
this  dreadful  censure  is  not  to  be  pronounced  till  gent- 
ler means  have  failed. 

4.  When  private  members  or  officers,  not  being 
ministers  of  the  word,  fall  into  such  scandals,  the  Ses- 
sion is  to  proceed  as  in  the  prosecution  of  other  public 

d  Appendix  I.  No.  16.  <-  Appendix  I,  No.  17. 


5  z6  Of  Discipline.  [Book  IT. 

scandals;  and  having  brought  the  matter  to  a  public 
admonition  and  suspension  from  sealing  ordinances,  is 
to  refer  the  case,  and  all  proceedings  therein,  to  the 
Presbytery. 

$.  The  Presbytery*  when  there  is  no  appeal,  shall 
resume  the  process  where  the  Session  left  it,  unless  there 
appear  such  defects  in  the  Sessional  proceedings,  or  in  the 
proof  of  the  libel,  as  shall  call  for  a  revision ;  and  having 
fully  considered  the  scandal  libelled,  the  steps  taken  in 
the  prosecution  of  it,  and  the  subsequent  carriage  of 
the  offender,  shall  give  their  decision  respecting  the 
censure  of  excommunication. 

6.  The  censure  being  passed,  a  Presbyterial  warrant 
for  the  intimation  of  it  shall  be  directed  to  the  mode- 
rator of  the  aforesaid  Session  ;  or,  if  the  congregation  be 
vacant,  to  some  other  minister/ 

7.  At  the  time  appointed  for  this  purpose,  the  mi- 
nister, having  briefly  explained  the  nature,  necessitv, 
and  end  of  church  censures,  shaH  relate  the  steps  of  the 
process  in  order;  shewing  the  church's  faithfulness  and 
tenderness  to  the  offender;  his  obdurate  impenitence 
under  all  the  endeavours  used  to  reclaim  him;  and  the 
duty  of  cutting  him  entirely  off  from  the  fellowship  of 
the  faithful,  as  the  only  remaining  means  of  bringing 
him  to  repentance. 

8.  The  minister  then  repeating  the  Presbyterial  war- 
rant for  the  censure  he  is  about  to  intimate,  is  to  call 
upon  the  congregation  to  join  with  him  in  imploring 
the  Lord's  blessing  on  this  terrible  ordinance,  that  it 
may  be  effectual,  both  to  recover  the  offender,  and  to 
edify  others. 

9.  Prayer  being  ended,  the  minister  is,  with  great 
gravity  and  solemnity,  to  intimate  the  censure,  declar- 
ing the  scandalous  person,  in  the  name,  and  by  the  au- 
thority of  the  Lord  Jesus  Christ,  cut  off  from  the 
fellowship  of  the  church,  and  delivered  unto  Satan,  tor 
the  destruction  of  the  flesh,  that  the  spirit  may  be  saved 
in  the  day  of  the  Lord  Jesus. 

/  Appendix  I.  No  19. 


R  es tor at ion  of  Offenders.  527 

j  10.  After  this  intimation  of  the  censure,  all  the 
members  of  the  congregation  are  to  be  warned  that  the 
person  cast  out  of  the  church  is  no  longer  a  brother; 
and  are  to  be  exhorted  and  enjoined  to  shun  all  inter- 
course or  conversation  with  him  that  can  be  avoided. 
Nevertheless, excommunication  dissolveth  not  the  bonds 
of  natural  or  civil  relations,  nor  exempteth  from  the  du- 
iies  belonging  to  them. 


CHAP.  VII. 

O/7/^Pen  1  tence  tf« d Restoration  ^/"Offenders. 

1.  /HkUR  Lord  Jesus  hath  committed  to  the  offi- 
\^/  cers  of  his  church,  the  power  not  only  of  in- 
flicting censures,  but  of  repealing  them,  and  admitting 
.returning  offenders  to  the  communion  and  the  privi- 
leges of  his  people. 

2.  As  persons  are  censured  not  for  the  want  of  saving 
grace,  but  for  outward  scandal ;  so,  the  penitence  re- 
quired to  warrant  their  restoration  is  not  a  really  graci- 
ous and  saving  change,  but  such  as  will  remove  the 
scandal  for  which  they  are  censured. 

3.  It  is  not,  however,  every  verbal  profession  of  con- 
trition, nor  every  promise  of  amendment,  nor.  even  a 
partial  reformation,  that  is  to  be  judged  satisfying. 

4.  Such  persons  as,  from  time  to  time,  profess  their 
sorrow  for  their  sin,  and  yet  live  in  the  practice  of  it,  are 
doubly  scandalous;  as  they  not  only  dishonour  God  by 
their  crime,  but  mock  him  by  their  hypocrisy. 

5.  Professions  of  repentance,  accompanied  by  those 
circumstances,  which  are  admitted  in  other  cases  to  be 
good  evidences  of  moral  seriousness,  such  as  free- 
ness,  gravity,  and  apparent  humility,  in  confession  of 
sin,  and  of  the  justice  of  the  censure;  using  the  proper 
means  for  attaining  the  desired  end ;  abstaining  from 
such  things  as  may  render  a  profession  suspected ;  and 
persevering  in  diligence  and  circumspection — such  pro- 


52 3  Of  Discipline. 

fessions  are  to  be  deemed  satisfactory,  and  warrant  a 
release  from  censure. 

6.  An  offender  ma}'  exhibit  such  tokens  of  repent- 
ance as  should  induce  a  Judicatory  to  forbear  censure 
other  than  admonition.  But  this  principle  is  to  be 
applied  with  great  caution  in  cases  where  no  penitence 
is  evinced,  nor  any  confession  made,  before  the  fact  is 
fully  proved. 

7.  Where  a  person  is  under  process  for  a  higher 
censure,  his  penitence,  on  conviction,  may  be  so  far 
satisfying  as  to  require  a  milder  one.  Thus,  the  peni- 
tence of  a  person  under  process  for.  excommunication, 
may  render  it  proper  to  proceed  no  farther  than  sus- 
pension. 

8.  The  carriage  of  an  offender  may  be  such  as  that 
a  Judicatory  may  not  have  freedom  to  inflict  the  censure 
to  which  the  process  would  natively  lead  ;  nor  yet  to 
dismiss  him  altogether  with  a  gentler  one.  In  these 
cases  it  may  be  proper  to  censure  more  lightly  than  was 
at  first  intended,  and  in  the  mean  time  to  stay  process. 
This,  it  is  to  be  observed,  does  not  terminate  the  pro- 
secution, but  merely  suspends  it;  and  in  the  event  of 
an  offender's  relapse  into  his  scandal,  leaves  all  that  was 
done  formerly  in  full  force;  and  the  Judicatory  resumes 
the  process  in  that  stage  of  it  in  which  it  was  sus- 
pended. Provided,  however,  that  if  a  suspended  pro- 
cess be  not  resumed,  on  account  of  the  scandal  again 
breaking  out  in  one  year,  it  shall  be  considered  as 
finally  closed. 

9.  Offenders  arc  to  be  restored  by  the  same  authority 
which  censured  them. 

10.  No  public  censure  is  to  be  removed,  but  in  vir- 
tue of  public  satisfaction.  For  private  censures,  no- 
thing more  than  private  satisfaction  shall  be  exacted. 

11.  When  an  offender,  who  hath  been  excommu- 
nicated, is  desirous  of  re-admission  into  the  church  of 
Christ,  he  is  to  lay  his  request  before  the  Presbytery 
by  whom  the  censure  was  passed  ;  and  if  they,  alter  close 
and  faithful  dealing  with  his  conscience,  and  a  careful 


Restoration  of  Offenders.  529 

inquiry  into  the  tenor  of  his  conversation  since  censure, 
be  satisfied  with  his  professions  of  repentance ;  that  the 
scandal  hath  been  in  a  good  measure  done  away  by  his 
edifying  behaviour ;  and  that  there  is  no  danger  of  re- 
viving it  by  acceding  to  his  request ;  they  are  to  absolve 
and  restore  him,  and  order  his  absolution  and  restora- 
tion to  be  intimated  to  the  congregation. 

12.  The  day  appointed  for  this  purpose  is  to  be  pre- 
viously intimated  from  the  pulpit :  when  it  arrives,  the 
offender  is  to  appear  before  the  congregation,  ancF  to 
make  a  solemn  profession  of  his  sense  of  his  misery  in 
being  shut  out  from  the  fellowship  of  the  saints — of  the 
justice  of  the  censure  passed  upon  him — of  his  contri- 
tion for  his  sin  in  dishonouring  God  ;  in  grieving  the 
hearts  of  his  people,  and  causing  the  profane  to  blas- 
pheme—of his  unfeigned  desire  to  flee  for  pardon  to  the 
blood  of  Christ — and  of  his  resolution,  through 
grace,  henceforward  to  study  to  adorn  the  doctrine  of 
God  the  Saviour. 

13.  This  profession  being  finished,  the  minister  is 
briefly  to  unfold  the  grace  of  our  Lord  Jesus  Christ 
towards  the  returning  sinner;  and,  having  read  the 
Presbyterial  warranty  is  to  call  upon  the  congregation  to 
join  with  him  in  "  praising  the  Lord  for  blessing  the 
"  censure  inflicted  by  his  church  ;  and  in  praying  that 
"  he  would  mercifully  accept  this  person,  who,  for  his 
"  great  sin,  and  for  his  contempt  of  all  admonition, 
"  was  cut  off  from  his  people;  that  he  would,  by  his 
u  Holy  Spirit,  give  him  the  grace  of  unfeigned  repent- 
"  ance;  would  pardon  him  freely  through  the  righte- 
"  ousness  of  our  Lord  Jesus  Christ,  and  would 
ci  grant  him  increase  in  all  godliness;  that  Satan"  may  be 
"  bruised  under  his  feet,  the  name  of  our  Lord  Jesus 
"  magnified,  the  church  edified,  and  himself  saved  with 
"  an  everlasting  salvation," 

14.  After  prayer,  the  minister  shall  declare  the  ab- 
solution;^ accompanying  it  with  an  exhortation  to  the 

j-  Appendix  I.  No.  Ao.          ,    h  Appendix  I.  No.  i3, 
3X 


53°  Of  Discipline.  [Book  IT. 

person  absolved,  to  double  watchfulness  in  his  Christian 
profession.  He  is  also  to  exhort  the  members  of  the 
congregation  to  receive  their  brother  in  the  spirit  of 
meekness  and  of  love ;  rejoicing  in  his  recovery,  and  en- 
deavouring to  strengthen  him  in  the  good  ways  of  God. 

15.  Deposed  officers,  especially  ministers,  who  have 
also  been  debarred  by  suspension  or  excommunication 
from  sealing  ordinances,  may  often  be  restored  to  the 
latter,  when  it  would  be  highly  injudicious  to  reinstate 
them  in  their  offices. 

16.  An  officer,  deposed  for  scandalous  conduct,  may 
not  be  restored  even  on  the  most  convincing  evidence 
of  deep  sorrow  for  his  sin,  without  some  time  of  emi- 
nent and  exemplary,  humble  and  edifying  conversation, 
to  heal  the  wound  made  by  his  scandal. 

17.  No  scandal,  which  hath  been  removed  by  satis- 
faction, shall  ever  be  the  ground  of  any  other  process  ; 
nor  is  the  person  restored  ever  to  be  upbraided  with  it, 
cither  by  church-officers  or  private  members.  Such  as 
transgress  in  this  respect  shall  be  accounted  scandalous, 
and  treated  accordingly. 


CHAP.*  VIII. 

Of  Declinatures. 

I.     A      Declinature  is  the  refusal  of  a  person  under 
J^\^  process  to  submit  to  trial  by  a  particular  Judi- 
catory. 

2.  When  a  person,  in  order  to  evade  a  process,  or 
without  assigning  any  just  reason,  declines  the  authority 
1  his  proper  Judicatory,  such  a  declinature  is  not  only 
unwarrantable,  but  contumacious;  and  is  not  to  im- 
pede the  process,  unless  it  be  referred  to  the  next  higher 
Judicatory. 

3.  It  a  judicatory  betray  unfairness  or  partiality;  it 
they,  before  tull  investigation,  by  any  judicial  act,  pre- 
judge the  cause;  if,  in  conducting  the  process,  they 
claim  to  d-.cide  on  subjects  of  which  they  have  no  cog- 


Declinatures  and  References.  531 

nizance,  or  otherwise  act  illegally ;  if  they  permit  mem- 
bers who  are  nearly  related  to,  or  who  are  at  personal 
variance  with,  either  of  the  parties ;  or  who  have  them- 
selves been  active  as  parties;  still  to  sit  in  judgment 
after  being  duly  challenged ;  in  all  these  cases  a  decli- 
nature is  warrantable. 

4.  It  is  not,,  however,  to  be  supposed,  that  even  a 
lawful  declinature  quashes  a  process.  It  only  removes 
it  to  another  Judicatory;  and  if  the  declinature  be  not 
accompanied  with  an  appeal  to  the  superior  Judicatory, 
the  party  is  to  be  cited  thither  by  the  Judicatory  which 
he  declined. 


CHAP.  IX. 

Of  References. 

1.     A     Reference  is  a  judicial  representation,  made 

JLJL  by  an  inferi°r  Judicatory  to  the  next  superior, 

of  a  case  not  yet  decided,  and  is  always  to  be  in  writing. 

2.  References  are  either  for  advice,  or  for  full  discus- 
sion and  final  decision. 

3.  References  of  the  former  kind  only  suspend  the 
determination  of  the  Judicatory  from  which  they  come; 
but  do  not  interfere  with  the  ultimate  decision. 

4.  References  of  the  latter  kind  relinquish  the  pro- 
secution of  the  case  referred,  and  leave  it  implicitly  to 
the  judgment  of  the  superior  Judicatory. 

5.  Though  references,  except  for  special  reasons, 
ought  always  to  procure  advice  from  Judicatories  refer- 
red to,  yet  the  latter  are  not  necessarily  bound,  even 
when  desired,  to  give  a  final  judgment;  but  may,  if 
they  seeiit,  remit  the  matter,  with  advice,  to  the  Judi- 
catory referring. 

6.  Cases  new,  important,  difficult,  whose  decision 
may  establish  a  principle  or  precedent  of  extensive  in- 
fluence, or  on  which  the  sentiments  of  the  Judicatory 
are  greatly  divided,  form  some  of  the  principal  subject's 
of  reference. 


Of  Discipline.  [Book  II. 

CHAP.  X. 

Of  Appeals. 

i.     A    N  appeal  is  the  removal  of  a  cause  from  an  in- 
^3^  ferior  to  a  superior  Judicatory,  by  a  party 
aggrieved. 

2.  Appeals  are  either  from  a  part  of  the  proceedings 
of  a  Judicatory,  or  from  a  definitive  sentence. 

g.  When  appeals  of  the  former  kind  are  brought 
before  a  Judicatory,  it  is  in  their  option  either  to  take 
the  whole  of  the  cause  under  cognizance,  or  merely  to 
decide  on  the  particular  acts  excepted  against,  and  re- 
mit the  cause  to  the  Judicatory  appealed  from. 

4.  Appeals  from  a  definitive  sentence  require  a  revi- 
sion of  the  whole  cause. 

5.  Every  appellant  is  bound  to  give  his  appeal,  with 
the  reasons  thereof,  in  writing,  to  the  Judicatory  ap- 
pealed from,  at  the  most  in  ten  days  after  notice  of  his 
intention  ;  which  notice  is  to  be  made  at  the  time  when 
lie  conceives  himself  aggrieved  :  and  on  default,  his  ap- 
peal fills. 

6.  Appeals  are  always  to  be  carried  in  regular  grada- 
tion, from  an  interior  Judicatory  to  the  one  immedi- 
ately superior. 

7.  When  an  appeal  is  brought  before  a  Judicatory, 
they  are  first  to  inquire  whether  it  hath  been  regularly 
conducted;  and  if  not,  to  refuse  it,  without  special  rea- 
sons to  the  contrary;  and  never  when  it  contravenes 
the  preceding  regulation. 

S.  The  Judicatory  appealed  to  is  next  to  inquire  in- 
to the  procedure  of  that  appealed  trom ;  and  it  it  shall 
appear  to  have  been  regular  and  proper,  no  blame  shall 
be  attached  to  said  Judicatory,  even  though  the  appeal 
be  sustained,  and  the  sentence  reversed. 

9.  If,  on  due  consideration,  an  appeal  from  a  defini- 
tive sentence  be  sustained,  the  Judicatory  appealed  to 
•  hall  try  the  libel  as  though  it  had  been  originally  or- 
dered by  themselves ;  and  if  they  find  cause  for  over- 


Appeals.  533 

ruling  the  sentence  appealed  from,  shall  use  every  me- 
thod of  satisfying  the  injured,  as  well  as  of  doing  him 
justice. 

10.  When  an  appeal  from  a  definitive  sentence  is 
not  sustained,  or  if  sustained,  the  appellant  is  cast,  the 
Judicatory  appealed  to  is  to  ratify  the  sentence,  and  di- 
rect that  appealed  from  to  proceed  in  the  execution  of 
it. 

ii.  Litigious  appellants  are  to  be  censured ;  but  this 
censure  is  not  to  suspend  or  mitigate  the  censure  at- 
tached to  the  crime  libelled. 

12.  If  an  appellant,  after  entering  his  appeal  before 
a  superior  Judicatory,  cease  to  prosecute  it,  it  shall  be 
considered  as  indefensible,  and  the  proceedings  of  the 
inferior  Judicatory  confirmed. 

13.  Judicatories  appealed  from,  being  parties  in  the 
cause,  cannot,  in  the  superior  Judicatories,  vote  on  any 
question  connected  with  the  appeal. 


(     534     ) 
BOOK     III. 

Of  Worship.a 

CHAP.  I. 

Of  the  Ordinances  in  a  particular  Congrega- 

TION. 

THE  ordinances  in  a  single  congregation  are  prayer 
and  thanksgiving;  singing  ot  psalms;  the  word 
read,  (although  there  follow  no  immediate  explication 
of  what  is  read)  the  word  expounded  and  applied ;  the 
sacraments  administered  ;  dismissing  the  people  with  a 
blessing;  catechising;  visitation  of  the  sick./> 

CHAP.  II. 

The  Design  of  the  ensuing  Directory. 

CARE  hath  been  taken  to  hold  forth  therein  such 
things  as  are  of  divine  institution  in  every  ordi- 
nance, and  to  set  forth  other  things  according  to  the 
rules  of  Christian  prudence,  agreeable  to  the  general 
rules  ot  the  word  or  God  :  nothing  more  being  meant, 
than  that  the  general  heads,  the  sense  and  scope  of  the 
prayers,  and  other  parts  of  public  worship,  being  known 
to  all,  there  may  be  a  consent  of  all  the  churches  in 
those  things  that  contain  the  substance  of  the  service 
and  worship  of  God;  and  the  ministers  may  be  here- 
by directed,  in  their  administrations,  to  keep  like  sound- 
ness in  doctrine  and  prayer,  and  may,  if  need  be,  have 
some  help  and  furniture;  and  yet  so  as  they  become  not 
hereby  slothful  and  negligent  in  stirring  up  the  gifts  of 
Christ  in  them;  but  that  each  one,  by  meditation, 

a  For  the  prineiple  and  rule  i  >.  sec  the  X^arger 

Catechism,  on  the  second  commandment. 
b  CunK  p.  xxi.  5. 


Assembling  and  Behaviour.  53^ 

by  taking  heed  to  himself,  and  the  flock  of  God  com- 
mitted to  him,  and  by  wisely  observing  the  ways  of  di- 
vine providence,  may  be  careful  to  furnish  his  heart  and 
tongue  with  farther  or  other  materials  of  prayer  and 
exhortation,  as  shall  be  needful  upon  all  occasions. 


CHAP.  III. 

The  DiRECTORY/or  Public  Worship. 

Sect.  I.  Of  the  Assembling  of  the  Congregation, 
and  their  Behaviour  /*;/  ///^Public  Worship  of 
God. 

WHEN  the  congregation  is  to  meet  for  public 
worship,  the  people  (having  before  prepared  their 
hearts  thereunto)  ought  all  to  come  and  join  therein ; 
not  absenting  themselves  from  the  public  ordinances 
through  negligence,  or  upon  pretence  of  private  meet- 
ings. And  it  is  highly  requisite,  for  the  decorum  of 
public  worship,  that  both  ministers  and  people  use  their 
diligence  to  attend  punctually  at  the  hour  appointed. 

2.  Let  all  enter  the  assembly,  and  take  their  seats  or 
places,  not  irreverently,  but  in  a  grave  and  seemly  man- 
ner; avoiding  whispering  or  conversation. 

3.  The  congregation  being  assembled,  the  minister, 
after  solemn  calling  on  them  to  the  worshipping  of  the 
great  name  of  God,  may  begin  with  prayer. 

"  In  all  reverence  and  humility  acknowledging  the 
"  incomprehensible  greatness  and  majesty  of  the  Lord, 
"  (in  whose  presence  they  do  then,  in  a  special  manner, 
"  appear)  and  their  own  vileness  and  unworthiness  to 
"  approach  so  near  him,  with  their  utter  inability  of 
"  themselves  to  so  great  a  work  ;  and  humbly  beseech- 
"  ing  him  for  pardon,  assistance  and  acceptance,  in  the 
"  whole  service  then  to  be  performed ;  and  for  a  blessing, 
'*  on  that  particular  portion  of  his  word  then  to  be  read  : 
"  and  all  in  the  name  and  mediation  of  the  Lord  Je- 
"  sus  Christ," 


536  Of  Public  Word  [Book  III. 

But  as  it  ftas  been,  for  a  long  time,  the  ordinary  prac- 
tice of  our  church  to  commence  public  worship  with 
singing  of  psalms,  it  is  lek  to  the  discretion  of  congre- 
gations to  adopt  either  of  these  modes  which  they  shall 
judge  best  suited  to  their  circumstances.  Nor  shall  a 
few  explanatory  remarks  upon  the  psalm  previous  to  its 
being  sung,  be  construed  an  infringement  of  this  order : 
Nevertheless,  in  this  exercise  brevity  is  recommended. 

4.  The  public  worship  being  begun,  the  people~are 
wholly  to  attend  upon  it,  forbearing  to  read  any  thing; 
except  what  the  minister  is  then  reading  or  citing;  and 
abstaining  much  more  from  all  private  whisperings,  con- 
ferences, salutations,  or  doing  reverence  to  any  person 
present  or  coming  in;  as  also  from  all  gazing,  sleeping, 
and  other  indecent  behaviour,  which  may  disturb  the 
minister  or  people,  or  hinder  themselves  or  others  in  the 
service  of  God. 

5.  If  any,  through  necessity,  be  hindered  from  be- 
ing present  at  the  beginning,  they  are  not,  when  they 
come  into  the  congregation,  to  betake  themselves  to 
their  private  devotions,  but  reverently  to  compose  them- 
selves to  join  with  the  assembly  in  that  ordinance  of 
God  which  is  then  in  hand. 

Sect.   II.      Of  Pvelic   Reading    of  the    Holt 
Scriptures. 

1.  Rcatling  of  the  word  in  the  congregation  being 
part  of  the  public  worship  of  God,  (wherein  we  ac 
knowledge  our  dependence  upon  him,  and  subjection 
to  him,)  and  one  mean  sanctified  by  him  for  the  edify  - 
ing  of  his  people,  is  to  be  performed  by  the  past 
and  teachers,  and  such  as  have  been  regularly  licensed 
to  preach  the  gospci,  though  not  yet  ordained. 

2.  How  large  a  portion  shall  be  read  at  once,  and  id 
what  order,  is  left  to  the  wisdom  of  the  person  con- 
ducting the  worship  ;  although  usually  it  should  not  be 
less  than  one  chapter;  but  in  this,  as  in  all  other  pub- 
lic exercises,  the  season  of  the  year,  and  state  of  the 
weather,  and  other  circumstances,  arc  carefully  to  be 


Praise, 


537 


considered,  that  the  service  may  not  be  unsuitably  pro- 
tracted. 

3.  When  the  minister  who  readeth  shall  judge  it  ne- 
cessary to  expound  any  part  of  what  is  read,  let  it  not 
be  done  until  the  whole  chapter  or  psalm  be  ended. 

4.  Beside  public  reading  of  the  holy  scriptures,  every 
person  that  can  read  is  to  be  exhorted  to  read  the  scrip- 
tures privately  (and  all  others  that  cannot  read,  if  not 
disabled  by  age,  or  otherwise,  are  likewise  to  be  ex- 
horted to  learn  to  read),  and  to  have  a  Bible. 

Sect.  III.     Of  Singing  of  Psalms. 

1.  It  is  the  duty  of  Christians  to  praise  God  pub- 
licly, by  singing  of  psalms  together  in  the  congregation. 

2.  It  is  the  will  of  God,  that  the  sacred  songs  con- 
tained in  the  book  of  Psalms,  be  sung  in  his  worship, 
both  public  and  private,  to  the  end  of  the  world:  and 
the  rich  variety  and  perfect  purity  of  their  matter,  the 
blessing  of  God  upon  them  in  every  age,  and  the  edi- 
fication of  the  church  thence  arising,  sec  the  propriety 
of  singing  them  in  a  convincing  light;  nor  shall  any 
composures,  merely  human,  be  sung  in  any  of  the  As- 
sociate-Reformed Churches. 

3.  These  songs  should  be  sung,  not  barely  with  the 
same  frame  of  spirit  with  which  they  should  be  read; 
but  with  such  an  elevation  of  soul  as  is  suited  to.  praise 
as  a  distinct  ordinance :  and  in  singing  those  parts  of 
them  which  are  expressed  in  ceremonial  style,  or  de- 
scribe the  circumstances  of  the  writers,  or  of  the  church 
in  ancient  times,  we  should  have  our  eye  upon  the  ge- 
neral principles  which  are  implied  in  thenl,  and  which 
arc  applicable  to  individuals,  or  the  church  in  every  age. 

4.  In  singing,  the  voice  is  to  be  tunably  ordered  ; 
but  the  chief  care  must  be  to  sing  with  understanding, 
and  with  grace  in  the  heart,  making  melody  unto  the 
Lord. 

5.  No  tunes  shall  be  sung  in  worshipping  assemblies, 
but  such  as  are  grave  and  simple :  and  no  new  time  shall 
be  introduced  into  any  of  the  churches  without  tbe 


53 S  Of  Public  Workup.  [Book  III. 

knowledge  and  consent  of  the  church-officers;  nor  even 
then,  unless  it  shall  be  evident,  that  the  introduction 
of  such  tune  would  be  acceptable  to  the  congregation, 
and  would  promote  its  real  edification. 

6.  No  chorus  of  singers,  nor  alternate  singing  shall 
be  introduced  into  any  of  the  churches,  because  it  is  the 
duty  of  the  whole  congregation  to  praise  God  with 
united  voices. 

7.  As  the  use  of  musical  instruments,  in  public  wor- 
ship, has  no  sanction  in  the  New  Testament,  nor  in 
the  practice  of  the  Christian  church  for  several  hundred 
years  after  its  erection,  it  shall  not  be  introduced,  under 
any  form,  into  any  of  the  churches. 

8.  That  the  whole  congregation  may  the  more  pro- 
fitably join  in  the  delightful  exercise  oi  praise,  it  is  re- 
commended that  every  one  vvhu  can  read  have  a  psalm 
book. 

Sect.  IV.  Of  Public  Prayer  befvft  /Z^  Sermon. 

The  preceding  parts  of  worship  being  performed, 
the  minister  who  is  to  preach  is  to  endeavour  to  get  his 
own  and  his  hearers'  hearts  to  be  rightly  affected  with 
their  sins,  that  they  may  all  mourn  in  sense  thereof  be- 
fore the  Lord,  and  hunger  and  thirst  after  the  grace 
of  God  in  Jesus  Christ,  by  proceeding  to  a  more 
full  confession  of  sin,  with  shame  and  holy  confusion 
of  face,  and  to  call  upon  the  Lord  to  this  eiTcct : 

"  To  acknowledge  our  great  sinfulness,  First,  by 
"  reason  of  original  sin,  which  (beside  the  guilt  that 
"  makes  us  liable  to  everlasting  damnation)  is  the  seed 
"  of  all  othef  sins,  hath  depraved  and  poisoned  all  the 
"  faculties  and  powers  of  soul  and  body,  doth  defile 
"  our  best  actions,  and  (were  it  not  restrained,  or  our 
"  hearts  renewed  by  grace)  would  break  forth  into  innu- 
"  mcrable  transgressions,  and  greatest  rebellions  against 
"  the  Lord  that  ever  were  committed  by  the  vilest  of 
"  the  sons  of  men.  And,  next,  by  reason  of  actual 
"  sins,  our  own  sins,  the  sins  of  magistrates,  of  minis- 
"  ters,  and  oi  the  whole  nation,  unto  which  we  are 


Prayer.  539 

'■*"  many  ways  accessary :  which  sins  of  ours  receive  many 
"  fearful  aggravations,  we  having  broken  all  the  com- 
"  mandments  of  the  holy,  just  and  good  law  of  God, 
"  doing  that  which  is  forbidden,  and  leaving  undone 
"  what  is  enjoined;  and  that  not  only  out  of  ignorance 
"  and  infirmity,  but  also  more  presumptuously,  against 
"  the  light  of  our  minds,  checks  of  our  consciences,  and 
*'  motions  of  his  own  Holy  Spirit  to  the  contrary, 
"  so  that  we  have  no  cloak  for  our  sins;  yea,  not  only 
"  despising  the  riches  of  God's  goodness,  forbearance, 
**  and  long-suffering,  but  standing  out  against  many 
"  invitations  and  offers  of  grace  in  the  gospel;  not  en- 
**  deavouring,  as  we  ought,  to  receive  Christ  into  our 
"  hearts  by  faith,  or  to  walk  worthy  of  him  in  our  lives. 
"  To  bewail  our  blindness  of  mind,  hardness  of  heart, 
"unbelief,  impenitency,.  security,  lukewarmness,  bar- 
"  renness ;  our  not  endeavouring  after  mortification  and 
**  newness  of  life,  nor  after  the  exercise  of  godliness  in 
•*  the  power  thereof;  and  that  the  best  of  us  have  not 
•*  so  stedfastly  walked  with  God,  kept  our  garments  so 
"  unspotted,  nor  been  so  zealous  of  his  glory,  and  the 
"  good  of  others,  as  we  ought :  and  to  mourn  over  such 
tc  other  sins  as  the  congregation  is  particularly  guilty  of, 
"  notwithstanding  the  manifold  and  great  mercies  of 
**  our  God,  the  love  of  Christ,  the  light  of  the  gospel, 
"  and  reformation  of  religion,  our  own  purposes,  pro- 
"  mises,  vows,   and  other  special  obligations   to  the 
"  contrary. 

"  To  acknowledge  and  confess,  that,  as  we  are  con- 
"  vinced  of  our  guilt,  so,  out  of  a  deep  sense  thereof, 
**  we  judge  ourselves  unworthy  of  the  smallest  benefits 
"  most  worthy  of  God's  fiercest  wrath,  and  of  all  the  cur- 
"  ses  of  the  law,  and  heaviest  judgments  infiidted  upon 
"  the  most  rebellious  sinners;  and  that  he  might  most 
"  justly  take  his  kingdom  and  gospel  from  us,  plague 
44  us  with  all  sorts  of  spiritual  and  temporal  judgments 
"  in  this  life,  and  afterwards  cast  us  into  outer  darkness 
**  in  the  lake  that  burnetii  with  fire  and  brimstone, 
"-  where  is  weeping  and  gnashing ©f  teeth  forever  more. 


54©  Of  Public  Worship.  [Book  III. 

"  Notwithstanding  all  which,  to  draw  near  to  the 
throne  of  grace,  encouraging  ourselves  with  hope  of  a 
gracious  answer  of  our  prayers,  in  the  riches  and  all- 
sufficiency  of  that  only  one  oblation,  the  satisfaction 
and  intercession  of  the  Lord  Jesus  Christ,  at  the 
right  hand  of  his  Father  and  our  Father;  and  in  con- 
fidence of  the  exceeding  great  and  precious  promises 
of  mercy  and  grace  in  the  new  covenant,  through  the 
same  Mediator  thereof,  to  deprecate  the  heavy  wrath 
and  curse  of  God,  which  we  are  not  able  to  avoid,  or 
bear  j  and  humbly  and  earnestly  to  supplicate  for 
mercy  in  the  free  and  full  remission  of  all  our  sins,  and 
that  only  for  the  bitter  sufferings  and  precious  merits 
of  that  our  only  Saviour  Jesus  Christ. 
"  That  the  Lord  would  vouchsafe  to  shed  abroad 
his  love  in  our  hearts  by  the  Holy  Ghost;  seal 
unto  us,  by  the  same  Spirit  of  adoption,  the  full  as- 
surance of  our  pardon  and  reconciliation;  comfort 
all  that  mourn  in  Zion,  speak  peace  to  the  wounded 
and  troubled  spirit,  and  bind  up  the  broken-hearted  : 
and  as  for  secure  and  presumptuous  sinners,  that  he 
would  open  their  eyes,  convince  their  consciences, 
and  turn  them  from  darkness  unto  light,  and  from 
the  power  of  Satan  unto  God,  that  they  also  may 
receive  forgiveness  of  sin,  and  an  inheritance  among 
them  that  are  sanctified  by  faith  in  Christ  Jesus. 
"  With  remission  of  sins  through  the  blood  of 
Christ,  to  pray  for  sanctification  by  his  Spirit; 
the  mortification  of  sin  dwelling  in,  and  many  times 
tyrannizing  over  us;  the  quickening  of  our  dead 
spirits  with  the  Life  ol  (Ion  in  Christ;  grace  to  fit 
and  enable  us  for  all  duties  of  conversation  and  cal- 
lings towards  God  and  men  ;  strength  against  temp- 
tations; the  sanctified  use  of  blessings  and  crosses; 
and  perseverance  in  faith  and  ice  unto  the  end. 

"  To  pray  for  the  propagation  of  the  gospel  and 
kingdom  of  Christ  to  all  nations;  lor  the  conver- 
sion of  the  Jews,  the  fulness  of  the  Gentiles,  the  fall 
of  Antichrist,  and  the  hastening  of  the  second  com- 


Prayer.  54.1 

"  ing  of  our  Lord;  for  the  deliverance  of  the  distres- 
"  sed  churches  abroad  from  the  tyranny  of  the  Anti- 
"  christian  faction,  and  from  the  cruel  oppressions  and 
"  blasphemies  of  the  Turk;  for  the  blessing  of  God 
"  upon  all  the  reformed  churches,  especially  upon  the 
"churches  in  the  United  States  of  America: 
"  more  particularly  for  that  church  whereof  we  are 
"  members,  that  therein  God  would  establish  peace 
"  and  truth,  the  purity  of  all  his  ordinances,  and,  the 
*'  power  of  godliness;  prevent  and  remove  heresy, 
"  schism,  prolaneness,  superstition,  security,  and  un- 
4<  fruitfulness  under  the  means  of  grace;  heal  all  our 
"  rents  and  divisions,  and  preserve  us  from  declensions 
"  in  the  ways  of  holiness. 

"  To  pray  for  all  in  authority;  especially  the  Pre- 
"  sident  of  the  United  States;  that  God  would 
"  make  him  rich  in  blessings,  both  in  his  person  and 
"  administration,  establish  his  rule  in  religion  and 
"  righteousness,  save  him  from  evil  counsel,  and  make 
"  him  a  blessed  and  glorious  instrument  for  the  con- 
"  servation  and  propagation  of  the  gospel,  for  the  en- 
"  couragement  and  protection  of  them  that  do  well, 
"  the  terror  of  all  that  do  evil,  and  the  great  good  of 
"  the  whole  church,  and  of  all  these  States:  for  a  bles- 
(c  sing  upon  both  Houses  of  Congress  (when  sitting), 
*'  upon  the  Governors  and  Legislatures  of  the 
"  several  States;  more  especially  of  the  States  in  which 
"  we  immediately  reside;  on  the  subordinate  judges 
*c  and  officers;  and  on  the  citizens  at  large:  for  all 
"  pastors  and  teachers,  that  God  would  fill  them  with 
*'  his  Spirit,  make  them  exemplarily  holy,  sober,  just, 
'*  peaceable,  and  gracious  in  their  lives;  sound,  faith- 
"  ful  and  powerful  in  their  ministry;  and  follow  all 
"  their  labours  with  abundance  of  success  and  blessings ; 
"  and  give  unto  ail  his  people  pastors  according  to  his 
"  own  heart :  for  such  as  design  the  holy  ministry  :  for 
"  universities,  and  all  schools  and  religious  seminaries, 
"  that  they  may  flourish  in  learning  and  piety  :  for  the 
i(  particular  city  or  congregation,    that    God   would 


542  Of  Public  Worship.  [Book  TIT. 

"  pour  out  a  blessing  upon  the  ministry  of  the  fltord", 
"  sacraments  and  discipline;  upon  the  civil  govern- 
«'  ment,  and  all  the  several  families  and  persons  there - 
"  in  :  lor  mercy  to  the  afflicted  under  any  inward  Ot 
"  outward  distress:  ior  seasonable  weather  and  fruitful 
"season?,  as  the  time  may  require:  for  averting  the 
"judgments,  that  we  cither  feel  or  tear,  or  are  liable 
"  unto,  as  famine,  pestilence,  the  sword,  and  such  li 

*'  And  with  confidence  ot  his  mercy  to  his  whole 
"  church,  and  the  acceptance  ot  our  persons,  through 
"  the  merits  and  mediation  of  our  high  priest,  the  Lor  d 
•<  Jesus,  to  profess  that  it  is  the  desire  of  our  souls 
"  to  have  fellowship  with  God  in  the  reverend  and  con- 
scientious use  of  his  holy  ordinances;  and,  to  that 
*'  purpose,  to  pray  earnestly  for  his  grace  and  effectual 
•'  assistance  to  the  saneti  fixation  ot  his  holy  fabbath,  the 
**  Lord's  day,  in  all  the  duties  thereof,  public  and  pri- 
"  rate,  both  to  ourselves  and  to  all  other  congregations 
"  of  his  people,  according  to  the  riches  and  excellency 
"  of  the  gospel  this  day  celebrated  and  enjoyed. 

"  And  because  we  have  been  unprofitable  hearers  in 
"  times  past,  and  now  cannot  of  ourselves  receive,  as 
"  we  should,  the  deep  things  of  God,  the  mysteries  of 
"  Jesus  Christ,  which  require  a  spiritual  decerning; 
"  to  pray  that  the  Lord,  who  teacheth  to  profit,  would 
"  graciously  please  to  pour  out  the  Spirit  of  grace, 
"  together  with  the  outward  means  thereof,  causing  us 
"  to  attain  such  a  measure  of  the  excellency  of  the 
"  knowledge  of  Christ  J  ksi  s  our  Lord,  and,  in  him. 
"  of  the  things  which  belong  to  our  peace,  that  we 
"  may  account  all  things  but  as  dross  in  comparison  of 
"  him  :  and  that  we,  tasting  the  first  fruits  of  the  glory 
"  that  is  to  be  revealed,  may  long  lor  a  full  and  perfect 
"  communion  with  him,  that  where  he  is  we  may  be 
"  also,  and  enjoy  the  lulness  of  those  joys  and  pleasures 
°  which  arc  at  his  right  hand  forever  more. 

"More  particularly,  that  Goo  would,  in  a  special 
"  manner,  furnish  his  servant  (now  called  to  dispense 
"  the  bread  of  life  unto  his  household)  with  wisdom., 


"Preaching  of  the  IV or <L  54? 

Xi  fidelity,  zeal  and  utterance,  that  he  may  divide  the 
*'  word  of  God  aright,  to  every  one  his  portion,  in  evi- 
"  dence  and  demonstration  of  the  Spirit  and  power; 
"  and  that  the  Lord  would  circumcise  the  ears  and 
'"  hearts  of  the  hearers,  to  hear,  love,  and  receive  with 
"  meekness  the  ingrafted  word,  which  is  able  to  save 
V  their  souls;  make  them  as  good  ground  to  receive  in 
"  the  good  seed  ,of  the  word,  and  strengthen  them 
"  against  the  temptations  of  Satan,  the  cares  of  the 
"  world,  the  hardness  of  their  own  hearts,  and  wliatso- 
"  ever  else  may  hinder  their  profitable  and  saving  hear- 
"  ing ;  that  so  Christ  may  be  so  formed  in  them,  and 
"  live  in  them,  that  all  their  thoughts  may  be  brought 
"  into  captivity  to  the  obedience  of  Christ,  and  their 
"  hearts  established  in  every  good  word  and  work  for- 
■"  ever." 

We  judge  this  to  be  a  convenient  order,  in  the  ordi- 
nary public  prayer;  yet  so,  as  the  minister  may  defer 
(as  in  prudence  he  shall  think  meet)  some  part  of  these 
petitions  till  after  his  sermon,  or  offer  up  to  God  some 
of  the  thanksgivings  hereafter  appointed,  in  his  prayer 
•before  his  sermon. 

Sect.  V.    Of  the  Preaching  of  the  Word. 

1.  Preaching  of  the  word,  being  the  power  of  God 
•unto  salvation,  and  one  of  the  greatest  and  most  excel- 
lent works  belonging  to  the  ministry  of  the  gospel, 
should  be  so  performed,  that  the  workman  need  not  be 
ashamed,  but  may  save  himself,  and  those  that  hear 
him. 

2.  It  is  presupposed  (according  to  the  rules  for  or- 
dination), that  the  minister  of  Christ  is  in  some  good 
measure  gifted  for  so  weighty  a  service,  by  his  skill  in 
the  original  languages,  and  in  such  arts  and  sciences  as 
are  handmaids  unto  divinity  ;  by  his  knowledge  in  the 
whole  body  of  theology,  but  most  of  all  in  the  holy 
scriptures,  having  his  senses  and  heart  exercised  in- them 
above  the  common  sort  of  believers;  and  by  the  ilk- 


544  Of  Public  Worship.  [Book  III. 

initiation  of  God's  Spirit,  and  other  gifts  of  edification, 
which  (together  with  reading  and  studying  of  the  word) 
he  ought  still  to  seek  by  prayer,  and  an  humble  heart, 
resolving  to  admit  and  receive  any  truth  not  yet  at- 
tained, whenever  God  shall  make  it  known  unto  him. 
All  which  he  is  to  make  use  of,  and  improve,  in  his 
private  preparations,  berore  he  deliver  in  public  what 
he  hath  provided. 

3.  Ordinarily,  the  subject  of  his  sermon  is  to  be 
some  text  of  scripture,  holding  forth  some  principle 
or  head  of  religion,  or  suitable  to  some  special  occasion ; 
or  he  may  go  on  in  some  chapter,  psalm,  or  book  of  the 
holy  scripture,  as  he  shall  see  fit. 

4.  Let  the  introduction  to  his  text  be  brief  and  per- 
spicuous, drawn  from  the  text  itself,  or  context,  or  some 
parallel  place,  or  general  sentence  of  scripture. 

5.  If  the  text  be  long  (as  in  histories  or  parables  it 
sometimes  must  be),  let  him  give  a  brief  sum  of  it;  if 
short,  a  paraphrase  thereof,  if  need  be :  in  both,  look- 
ing diligently  to  the  scope  of  the  text,  and  pointing  at 
the  chief  heads  and  grounds  of  doctrine  which  he  is  to 
raise  from  it. 

6.  In  analysing  and  dividing  his  text,  he  is  to  regard 
more  the  order  of  matter  than  of  words  :  and  neither  to 
burden  the  memory  ot  the  hearers  in  the  beginning  with 
too  many  members  of  division,  nor  to  trouble  their 
minds  with  obscure  terms  of  art. 

7.  In  raising  doctrines  from  the  text,  his  care  ought 
to  be,  First,  That  the  matter  be  the  truth  of  Gon. 
condly,  That  it  be  a  truth  contained  in  or  grounded  on 
that  text,  that  the  hearers  may  discern  how  God 

eth  it  from  thence.  Thirdly,  That  he  chiefly  insist  upon 
those  doctrines  which  are  principally  intended,  and 
make  most  for  the  edification  of  the  hearers. 

8.  The  doctrine  is  to  be  expressed  in  plain  terms; 
or,  if  any  thing  in  it  need  explication,  it  is  to  be  open.  , 
and  the  consequence  also  from  the  text  cleared.  The 
parallel  places  of  scripture  confirming  the  doctrine  are 
rather  to  be  plain  and  pertinent  than  many,  and  (if  m\  i 


Preaching  of  the  Word.  545 

be)  somewhat  insisted  upon,  and  applied  to  the  purpose 
in  hand. 

9.  The  arguments  or  reasons  are  to  be  solid,  and  as 
much  as  may  be,  convincing.  The  illustrations,  of 
what  kind  soever,  ought  to  be  full  of  light,  and  such  as 
may  convey  the  truth  into  the  hearers'  heart  with 
spiritual  delight. 

10.  If  any  doubt,  obvious  from  scripture,  reason, 
or  prejudice  of  the  hearers,  seem  to  arise,  it  is  very  requi- 
site to  remove  it,  by  reconciling  the  seeming  differences, 
answering  the  reasons,  and  discovering  and  taking  away 
the  causes  of  prejudice  and  mistake.  Otherwise  it  is 
not  fit  to  detain  the  hearers  with  propounding  or  an- 
swering vain  or  wicked  cavils,  which,  as  they  are  endless, 
so  the  propounding  and  answering  of  them  doth  more 
hinder  than  promote  edification. 

1 1 .  He  is  not  to  rest  in  general  doctrine,  although 
ever  so  much  cleared  and  confirmed,  but  to  bring  it 
home  to  special  use,  by  application  to  his  hearers: 
which,  although  it  prove  a  work  of  great  difficulty  to 
himself,  requiring  much  prudence,  zeal  and  meditation, 
and  to  the  natural  and  corrupt  man  will  be  very  un- 
pleasant; yet  he  is  to  endeavour  to  perform  it  in  such 
a  manner,  that  his  auditors  may  feel  the  word  of  God 
to  be  quick  and  powerful,  and  a  diicerner  of  the  thoughts 
and  intents  of  the  heart ;  and  that,  if  any  unbeliever  or 
ignorant  person  be  present,  he  may  have  the  secrets  of 
his  heart  made  manifest,  and  give  glory  to  God. 

12.  In  the  use  of  instruction  or  information  in  the 
knowledge  of  some  truth,  which  is  a  consequence  from 
his  doctrine,  he  may  (when  convenient)  confirm  it  by  a 
few  firm  arguments  from  the  text  in  hand,  and  other 
places  of  scripture,  or  from  the  nature  of  that  common- 
place in  divinity,  whereof  that  truth  is  a  branch. 

13.  In  confutation  of  false  doctrines,  he  is  neither  to 
raise  an  old  heresy  from  the  grave,  nor  to  mention  a 
blasphemous  opinion  unnecessarily  :  but,  if  the  people 
be  in  danger  of  an  error,  he  is  to  confute  it  soundly, 


546  Of  Public  Worship.  [Book  III. 

and  endeavour  to  satisfy  their  judgments  and  consciences 
against  all  objections. 

14.  In  exhorting  to  duties,  he  is,  as  he  seeth  cause, 
to  teach  also  the  means  that  help  to  the  performance  of 
them. 

15.  In  dehortation,  reprehension,  and  public  admo- 
nition (which  require  special  wisdom),  let  him,  as  there 
shall  be  cause,  not  only  discover  the  nature  and  great- 
ness of  the  sin,  with  the  misery  attending  it,  but  also 
shew  the  danger  his  hearers  are  in  to  bo  overtaken  and 
surprized  by  it,  together  with  the  remedies  and  best 
way  to  avoid  it. 

16.  In  applying  comfort,  whether  general  against  all 
temptations,  or  particular  against  some  special  troubles 
or  terrors,  he  is  carefully  to  answer  such  objections  as  a 
troubled  heart  and  afflided  spirit  may  suggest  to  the 
contrary. 

17.  It  is  also  sometimes  requisite  to  give  some  notes 
of  trial  (which  is  very  profitable,  especially  when  per- 
formed by  able  and  experienced  ministers,  with  circum- 
spection and  prudence,  and  the  signs  clearly  grounded 
on  the  holy  scripture),  whereby  the  hearers  may  be  able 
to  examine  themselves  whether  they  have  attained  those 
graces,  and  performed  those  duties,  to  which  he  ex- 
horteth;  or  be  guilty  of  the  sin  reprehended,  and  in 
danger  of  the  judgments  threatened;  or  be  those  to 
whom  the  consolations  propounded  do  belong ;  that 
accordingly  they  may  be  quickened  and  excited  to  duty, 
humbled  for  their  wants  and  sins,  affected  with  their 
danger,  and  strengthened  with  comfort,  as  their  con- 
dition, upon  examination,  shall  require. 

18.  And,  as  he  needeth  not  always  to  prosecute  every 
doctrine  which  lies  in  his  text,  so  is  he  wisely  to  make 
choice  of  such  uses,  as,  by  his  residence  and  conversing 
with  his  flock,  he  findeth  most  needful  and  seasonable; 
and,  amongst  these,  such  as  may  be  most  effeclual  to 
draw  their  souls  to  Christ,  the  fountain  of  light,  ho- 
liness and  comfort. 


'Preaching  of  the  Word.  547 

19.  This  method  is  not  prescribed  as  necessary  for 
every  man,  or  upon  every  text ;  but  only  recommended, 
as  being  found  by  experience  to  be  very  much  blessed 
of  God,  and  very  helpful  for  the  people's  understand- 
ings and  memories. 

20.  But  the  servant  of  Christ,  whatever  his  method 
be,  is  to  perform  his  whole  ministry. 

1  st.  Painfully,  not  doing  the  work  of  the  Lord 
negligently. 

2d.  Plainly,  that  the  weakest  may  understand;  de- 
livering the  truth  not  in  the  enticing  words  of  man's 
wisdom,  but  in  demonstration  of  the  Spirit  and  of 
power,  lest  the  cross  of  Christ  should  be  made  of  none 
effect;  abstaining  also  from  an  unprofitable  use  of  un- 
known tongues,  strange  phrases,  and  cadences  of  sounds 
and  words ;  sparingly  citing  sentences  of  ecclesiastical  or 
other  human  writers,  ancient  or  modern,  be  they  ever 
so  elegant. 

3d.  Faithfully,  looking  at  the  honour  of  Christ, 
the  conversion,  edification  and  salvation  of  the  people, 
not  at  his  own  gain  or  glory ;  keeping  nothing  back 
which  may  promote  those  holy  ends ;  giving  to  every 
one  his  own  portion,  and  bearing  indifferent  respect 
unto  all,  without  neglecting  the  meanest,  or  sparing  the 
greatest,  in  their  sins. 

4th.  Wisely,  framing  all  his  doctrines,  exhortations, 
and  especially  his  reproofs,  in  such  a  manner  as  may  be 
most  likely  to  prevail;  shewing  all  due  respect  to  each 
man's  person  and  place,  and  not  mixing  his  own  passion 
or  bitterness. 

c;th.  Gravely,  as  becometh  the  word  of  God;  shun- 
ning all  such  gesture,  voice  and  expressions,  as  may  oc- 
casion the  corruptions  of  men  to  despise  him  and  his 
ministry. 

6th.  With  loving  affection,  that  the  people  may  see 
all  coming  from  his  godly  zeal,  and  hearty  desire  to  cjj 
them  good.     And, 

7th.  As  taught  of  God,  and  persuaded  in  his  own 
heart,  that  all  that  he  teaeheijh  is  the  truth  of  Chris-'-; 


5l3  Of  Public  11  'or  s  hi  p.  [Book  III. 

and  walking  before  his  flock,  as  an  example  to  them  in 
it;  earnestly,  both  in  private  and  public,  recommend- 
ing his  labours  to  the  blessing  of  God,  and  watchfully 
looking  to  himself,  and  the  flock  whereof  the  Lord 
hath  made  him  overseer  :  So  shall  the  doctrine  of  truth 
be  preserved  uncorrupt,  many  souls  be  converted  and 
built  up,  and  himself  receive  manifold  comforts  of  his 
labours  even  in  this  life,  and  afterwards  the  crown  of 
glory  laid  up  for  him  in  the  world  to  come. 

2 1 .  Where  there  are  more  ministers  in  a  congregation 
than  one,  and  they  of  different  gifts,  each  may  more 
especially  apply  himself  to  doctrine  or  exhortation,  ac- 
cording to  the  gift  wherein  he  most  excelleth,  and  as 
they  shall  agree  between  themselves. 

Sect.  VI.     Of  Prayer  after  Sermon. 

i.  The  sermon  being  ended,  the  minister  is  "  To 
give  thanks  for  the  great  love  of  God,  in  sending  his 
Son  Jesus  Christ  unto  us;  for  the  communica- 
tion of  his  Holy  Spirit;  for  the  light  and  liberty 
of  the  glorious  gospel,  and  the  rich  and  heavenly 
blessings  revealed  therein :  as,  namely,  election,  voca- 
tion, adoption,  justification,  sanctification,  and  hope 
of  glory;  and  for  the  admirable  goodness  of  God  in 
casting  our  lot  in  a  land  of  civil  and  religious  liberty, 
where,  in  nothing  terrified  by  our  adversaries,  we 
may  serve  him  in  holiness  and  righteousness,  without 
fear,  all  the  days  of  our  lives. 

"  To  pray  for  the  continuance  of  the  gospel,  and  all 
ordinances  thereof,  in  their  purity,  power, and  liberty  : 
to  turn  the  chief  and  most  useful  heads  of  the  sermon 
into  some  few  petitions ;  and  to  pray  that  it  may  abide 
in  the  heart,  and  bring  forth  fruit. 
"  To  pray  for  preparation  for  death  and  judgment, 
and  a  watching  for  the  coming  of  our  Lord  Jesus 
Christ:  to  entreat  of  God  the  forgiveness  of  the 
iniquities  of  our  holy  things,  and  the  acceptation  of 
our  spiritual  sacrifice,  through  the  merit  and  me 


Baptism.  549 

"  tion  of  our  High  Priest  and  Saviour  the  Lord  Jesus 
"  Christ." 

2.  And  because  the  prayer  which  Christ  taught 
his  disciples  is  not  only  a  pattern  of  prayer,  but  itself 
a  most  comprehensive  prayer,  it  may  also  be  used  in 
the  prayers  of  the  church. 

3.  And  whereas,  at  the  administration  of  the  sacra- 
ments, the  holding  public  fasts  and  days  of  thanksgiv- 
ing, and  other  special  occasions,  which  may  afford  mat- 
ter of  special  petitions  and  thanksgivings,  it  is  requisite 
to  express  somewhat  in  our  public  prayers,  every  mi- 
nister is  herein  to  apply  himself  in  his  prayer,  before 
or  after  sermon,  to  those  occasions;  but,  for  the  man- 
ner, he  is  left  to  his  liberty,  as  God  shall  direct  and 
enable  him,  in  piety  and  wisdom  to  discharge  his  duty. 

4.  The  prayer  ended,  let  a  psalm,  or  part  of  a  psalm, 
be  sung,  if  with  conveniency  it  may  be  done.  After 
which  (unless  some  other  ordinance  of  Christ  that 
concerneth  the  congregation  at  that  time  be  to  follow). 
let  the  minister  dismiss  the  congregation  with  the  apos- 
tolical benediction. 

Sect.  VII.     Of  the  Administration  of  the  Sa- 
craments. 

And)  first,  of  Baptism. 

1.  Baptism,  as  it  is  not  unnecessarily  to  be  delayed, 
so  it  is  not  to  be  administered  in  any  case  by  any  pri- 
vate person,  but  by  a  minister  of  Christ,  called  to  be 
the  steward  of  the  mysteries  of  God. 

2.  Nor  is  it  to  be  administered  in  private  places,  or 
privately,  but  in  a  place  of  public  worship,  and  in  the 
face  of  the  congregation,  where  the  people  may  most 
conveniently  see  and  hear:  nor  is  it  to  be  prostituted  to 
the  purposes  of  worldly  gain. 

3.  The  child  to  be  baptized,  after  due  notice  given 
to  the  minister,  is  to  be  presented  by  the  father;  in 
case  of  his  death,  or  necessary  absence,  or  incapacity 
of  taking  upon  him  the  requisite  vows,  by  the  mother. 


55-  O/Piu  hip,  [Book  III. 


Those  sponsors,  commonly  called  godfathers  and  god- 
mothers, are  utterly  disallowed. 

4.  Before  baptism,  the  minister,  if  he  shall  judge  it 
necessary,  is  to  use  some  words  ot  instruction,  touch- 
ing the  institution,  nature,  use,  and  ends  of  this  sacra- 
ment :  shewing, 

"  That  it  is  instituted  by  our  Lord  Jesus  Christ  : 
"  that  it  is  a  seal  of  the  covenant  of  grace,  of  our  in- 
"  grafting  into  Christ,  and  of  our  union  with  him; 
"  of  remission  of  sins,  regeneration,  adoption,  and 
"  eternal:  that  the  water  in  baptism  represented  and 
*'  significth  both  the  blood  of  Christ,  which  taketh 
"  away  all  guilt  of  sin  original  and  actual,  and  the  sanc- 
"  tifying  virtue  of  the  Spirit  of  Christ  against  the 
"  dominion  of  sin,  and  the  corruption  of  our  sinful  na- 
"  ture  :  that  baptizing,  or  sprinkling  and  washing  with 
"  water,  signifieth  the  cleansing  from  sin  by  the  blood 
"  and  for  the  merit  of  Christ,  together  with  the  mor- 
"  tification  of  sin,  and  rising  from  sin  to  newness  of  life, 
"  by  virtue  of  the  death  and  resurrection  of  Christ  : 
"  that  the  promise'is  made  to  believers  and  their  scud  ; 
"  and  that  the  seed  and  posterity  of  the  faithful,  born 
"  within  the  church,  have,  by  their  birth,  a  visible  in- 
"  tercst  in  the  covenant,  and  right  to  the  seal  of  it,  and 
"  to  the  outward  privileges  of  the  church,  under  the 
"  gospel,  no  less  than  the  children  of  Abraham,  in  the 
"  time  of  the  Old  Testament;  the  covenant  ot  grace, 
"  for  substance,  being  the  same;  and  the  grace  ot 
"  God,  and  the  consolation  of  believers,  more  plentiful 
"  than  before;  that  the  Son  of  God  admitted  little 
"  children  into  his  presence,  embracing  and  blessing 
"  them,  saying,  For  of  such  is  the  kingdom  of  God :  that 
"  children,  by  baptism,  are  solemnly  acknowledged  as 
"  members  of  the  visible  church,  distinguished  from 
*'  the  world,  and  them  that  are  without,  and  united  with 
"  believers;  and  that  all  who  are  baptized  in  the  name 
"of  Christ,  do  renounce,  and  by  their  baptism  are 
"  bound  10  fight  against,  the  devil,  the  world,  and  the 
"  flesh  :  thai  they  are  Christians,  and  federally  holy  before 


Baptism.  c;  ^  i 

**  baptism,  and  therefore  are  they  baptized :  that  the 
**  inward  grace  and  virtue  of  baptism  is  not  tied  to  that 
"  very  moment  of  time  wherein  it  is  administered  ;  and 
"  that  the  fruit  and  power  thereof  reach  to  the  whole 
"  course  of  our  life :  and  that  outward  baptism  is  not 
"  so  necessary,  that  through  the  want  thereof  the  in- 
"  fant  is  in  danger  of  damnation,  or  the  parents  guilty, 
"  if  they  do  not  contemn  or  neglect  the  ordinance  of 
"  Christ,  when  and  where  it  may  be  had." 

In  these  or  the  like  instructions,  the  minister  is  to 
use  his  own  liberty  and  godly  wisdom,  as  the  ignorance 
or  errors  in  the  doctrine  of  baptism,  and  the  edification 
of  the  people,  shall  require. 

5.  He  is  also  to  admonish  all   that   are 

PRESENT 

"  To  look  back  to  their  baptism;  to  repent  of  their 
"  sins  against  their  covenant  with  God  ;  to  stir  up  their 
"  faith;  to  improve  and  make  right  use  of  their  bap- 
"  tism,  and  of  the  covenant  sealed  thereby  betwixt 
"  God  and  their  souls." 

6.  He  is  to  require  the  parent 

"  To  profess  his  faith  in  the  holy  scriptures  of  the 
"  Old  and  New  Testaments,  as  the  word  of  the  living 
"  God,  the  perfect,  and  only  rule  of  faith  and  practice, 
"  to  which  nothing  is  to  be  added,  and  from  which 
"  nothing  is  to  be  taken,  at  any  time,  or  upon  any 
"  pretext,  whether  of  new  revelations  of  the  Spirit, 
"  or  traditions  of  men;  together  with  his  approbation 
"  of  the  Westminster  Confession  of-  Faith  and  Cate- 
"  chisms;  the  form  of  Presbyterial  government,  and  the 
*'  directory  for  public  worship,  as  received  by  this  church 
"  — to  promise,  if  it  shall  please  God  tospare>him  with 
"  his  child,  to  bring  him*  up  in  the  nurture  and  admo- 
"  nition  of  the  Lord;  to  instruct  him,  according  to 
"  his  ability,  in  the  knowledge  of  his  miserable  condi- 
"  tion  by  nature,  and  of  the  way  of  salvation  by  Jesus 
"  Christ;  to  press  upon  him  his  obligation,  in  virtue 

•  Or  her,  as  the  case  may  be, 


552  .     Of  Public  Worship.  [Book  III. 

"  of  his  baptismal  vows,  to  shew  forth  the  Lord's 
"  death  at  his  table ;  to  set  a  godly  example  before  his 
"  child  j  by  praying  with  him  and  tor  him  ;  by  worship- 
"  ping  the  Lord  regularly,  morning  and  evening, 
"  agreeably  to  the  directory  for  family  worship;  and  by 
"  studying,  in  all  things,  so  to  walk  even  as  Christ 
"  also  walked." 

7.  This  being  done,  prayer  is  also  to  be  joined  with 
the  word  of  institution,  for  sanctifying  the  water  to  this 
spiritual  use;  and  the  minister  is  to  pray  to  this  or  the 
like  effect: 

"  That  the  Lord,  who  hath  not  left  us  as  strangers 
"  without  the  covenant  of  promise,  but  called  us  to  the 
"  privileges  of  his  ordinances,  would  graciously  vouch- 
"  safe  to  sanctify  and  bless  his  own  ordinance  of  baptism 
"  at  this  time:  that  he  would  join  the  inward  baptism 
"  of  his  Spirit  with  the  outward  baptism  of  water; 
"  make  this  baptism  to  the  infant  a  seal  of  adoption, 
"  remission  of  sin,  regeneration,  and  eternal  life,  and 
"  all  other  promises  of  the  covenant  of  grace:  that  the 
"  child  may  be  planted  into  the  likeness  of  the  death 
"  and  resurrection  of  Christ;  and,  that  the  body  of 
"  sin  being  destroyed  in  him,  he  may  serve  God  in 
"  newness  of  life  all  his  days." 

8.  Then  the  minister  is  to  demand  the  name  of  the 
child;  which  being  told  him,  he  is  to  say  (calling  the 
child  by  his  name), 

I  baptize  thee  in  the  name  of  the  FATHER,  and  of 
the  SON,  and  of  the  HOL  Y  GHOST. 

As  he  pronounccth  these  words,  he  is  to  baptize  the 
child  with  water:  which,  for  the  manner  of  doing  ir, 
is  not  only  lawful  but  sufficient,  and  most  expedient  to 
be,  by  pouring  or  sprinkling  of  the  water  on  the  face  oi 
the  child,  without  adding  any  other  ceremony. 

9.  This  done,  he  is  to  give  thanks  and  pray,  to  this 
or  the  like  purpose : 

cknowledging,  with  all  thankfulness,  that  the 
*'  Lord  is  true  and  faithful  in  keeping  covenant  and 
Ck  mercy  :  That  he  is'good  and  gracious,  not  only  in  that 


The  Lord's  Supper.  553 

"  he  numbereth  us  among  his  saints,  but  is  pleased  also 
ic  to  bestow  upon  our  children  this  singular  token  and 
"  badge  of  his  love  in  Christ:  that,  in  his  truth  and 
"  special  providence,  he  daily  bringeth  some  into  the 
"  bosom  of  his  church,  to  be  partakers  of  his  inestima- 
"  ble  benefits,  purchased  by  the  blood  of  his  dear  Son, 
"  for  the  continuance  and  increase  of  his  churchi 

"  And  praying  that  the  Lord  would  still  continue, 
"  and  daily  confirm  more  and  more  this  his  unspeaka- 
"  ble  favour  :  that  he  would  receive  the  infant  now  bap- 
"  tized,  and  solemnly  entered  into  the  household  of 
"  faith,  into  his  fatherly  tuition  and  defence*  and  re- 
"  member  him  with  the  favour  that  he  sheweth  to  his 
*'  people ;  that,  if  he  shall  tfe  taken  out  of  this  life  in 
"  his  infancyytheLoRD,  who  is  rich  in  mercy,  would  be 
"  pleased  to  receive  him  up  into  glory  $  and  if  he  live* 
*'  and  attain  the  years  of  discretion,  that  the  Lord  would 
"  so  teach  him  by  his  word  and  Spirit,  and  make  his 
u  baptism  effectual  to  him,  and  so  uphold  him,  by  his 
"  divine  power  and  grace,  that  by  faith  he  may  prevail 
"  against  the  devil,  the  world,  and  the  flesh,  till  in  the 
"  end  he  obtain  a  full  and  final  victory ,  and  so  be  kept 
"  by  the  power  of  God  through  faith  unto  salvation* 
"  through  Jesus  Christ  our  Lord." 

Secondly.     Of  the  Celebration  of  the  Commu- 
nion, or  Sacrament  of  the  Lord's  Supper. 

1.  The  communion,  or  supper  of  the  Lord,  is  fre- 
quently to  be  celebrated ;  but  how  often,  may  be  con- 
sidered and  determined  by  the  ministers,  and  other 
church -governors  of  each  congregation,  as  they  shall  find 
most  Convenient  for  the  comfort  and  edification  of  the 
people  committed  to  their  charge.  And,  when  it  shall 
be  administered,  it  is  convenient  to  be  done  after  the 
morning  sermon. 

2,  The  ignorant  and  the  scandalous  are  not  fit  to  re- 
ceive this  sacrament  of  the  Lord's  supper. 

3*  Where  this  sacrament  cannot  with  convenience  be 
frequently  administered,  it  is  requisite  that  public  warn* 

4A 


554  Of  Public  Worship.  [Book  II?, 

ing  be  given  the  sabbath-day  before  the  administration 
thereof:  and  that  either  then,  or  on  some  day  of  that 
week,  something  concerning  that  ordinance,  and  the 
due  preparation  thereunto,  and  participation  thereof,  be 
taught;  that,  by  the  diligent  use  of  all  means  sanctified 
of  God  to  that  end,  both  in  public  and  private,  all  may 
come  better  prepared  to  that  heavenly  feast. 

4.  When  the  day  is  come  for  administration,  the  mi- 
nister, having  ended  his  sermon  and  prayer,  shall  make 
a  short  exhortation,- 

"  Expressing  the  inestimable  benefit  we  have  by  this 
<c  sacrament,  together  with  the  ends  and  use  thereof; 
"  setting  forth  the  great  necessity  of  having  our  com- 
"  forts  and  strength  renewed  thereby  in  this  our  pilgrim- 
"  age  and  warfare :  how  necessary  it  is  that  we  come 
*'  unto  it  with  knowledge,  faith,  repentance,  love,  and 
"  with  hungering  and  thirsting  souls  after  Christ  and 
<c  his  benefits:  how  great  the  danger  to  eat  and  drink 
"  unworthily. 

"  Next,  he  is,  in  the  name  of  Christ,  on  the  one 
"  part,  to  warn  all  such  as  are  ignorant,  scandalous, 
"  profane,  or  that  live  in  any  sin  or  offence  against  their 
"  knowledge  or  conscience,  that  they  presume  not  to 
"  come  to  that  holy  table ;  shewing  them,  that  he  that 
"  eateth  and  drinketh  unworthily,  eateth  and  drinketh 
"  judgment  unto  himself:  and  that  the  warning  may  be 
"  more  particular  and  pointed,  he  may  either  briefly  sum 
<c  up  the  violations  of  the  several  precepts  of  the  moral 
"  law,  or  read  a  few  of  such  passages  of  scripture  as  de- 
*'  scribe  the  characters  of  unregenerated  men;  as  1  Cor. 
"  vi.  9,  10.  Gal.  v.  19 — 21.  1  Tim.  i.  9,  10,  &c.  or  do 
"  both;  and,  on  the  other  part,  he  is  in  an  especial 
"  manner  to  invite  and  encourage  all  that  labour  under 
"  the  sense  of  the  burden  of  their  sins,  and  fear  of  wrath, 
*'  and  desire  to  reach  out  unto  a  greater  progress  in  grace 
«*  than  yet  they  can  attain  unto,  to  come  to  the 
"  Lord's  table;  assuring  them,  in  the  same  name, 
"  of  ease,  refreshing  and  strength,  to  their  weak  and 
"  wearied  souls." 


The  Lords  Supper.  r-c 

5.  After  this  exhortation,  warning  and  invitation, 
ihe  table  being  before  decently  covered,  and  so  convex 
niently  placed,  that  the  communicants  may  orderly  sit 
about  it,  or  at  it,  the  minister  is  to  begin  the  action 
with  sanctifying  and  blessing  the  elements  of  bread  and 
wine  set  before  (the  bread  in  comely  and  convenient 
vessels,  so  prepared,  that,  being  broken  by  him,  and 
given,  it  may  be  distributed  amongst  the  communi- 
cants; the  wjne  also  in  large  cups),  having  first,  in  a  few 
words,  shewed  that  those  elements,  otherwise  common, 
are  now  set  apart  and  sanctified  to  this  holy  use,  by  the 
word  of  institution  and  prayer. 

6.  Let  the  words  of  institution  be  read  out  of  the 
Evangelists,  or  out  of  the  first  Epistle  of  the  Apostle  Paul 
to  the  Corinthians,  chap.  xi.  23.  I  have  received  of  the 
Lord,  &c.  to  the  27th  verse,  whidrthe  minister  may, 
when  he  seeth  requisite,  explain  and  apply. 

7.  Let  the  prayer,  thanksgiving,  or  blessing  of  the 
bread  and  wine,  be  to  this  effect : 

"  With  humble  and  hearty  acknowledgment  of  the 
<c  greatness  of  our  misery,  from  which  neither  man  nor 
"  angel  was  able  to  deliver  us,  and  of  our  great  unwor- 
"  thiness  of  the  least  of  all  God's  mercies;  to  give 
"  thanks  to  God  for  all  his  benefits,  and  especially  for 
"  that  great  benefit  of  our  redemption,  the  love  of  God 
"  the  Father,  the  sufferings  and  merits  of  the  Lord 
"  Jesus  Christ  the  Son  of  God,  by  which  we  are  de- 
:c  hvered ;  and  for  all  means  of  grace,  the  word  and  sa- 
"  craments :  and  for  this  sacrament  in  particular,  by 
"  which  Christ  and  all  his  benefits  are  applied  and 
"  sealed  up  unto  us;  which,  notwithstanding  the  de- 
"  nial  of  them  unto  others,  are  in  great  mercy  conti- 
"  nued  unto  us,  after  so  much  and  long  abuse  of  them 
"  all. 

"  To  profess,  that  there  is  no  other  name  under  hea- 
^  ven  by  which  we  can  be  saved,  but  by  the  name  of 
•4  Jesus  Christ,  by  whom  alone  we  receive  liberty 
fc  and  life;  have  access  to  the  throne  of  grace;  are  ad- 


556  Of  Public  Worship.  [Book  IIT. 

"  mitted  to  eat  and  drink  at  his  own  table;  and  are 
"  scaled  up  by  his  Spirit  to  an  assurance  of  happiness 
"  and  everlasting  lite. 

"  Earnestly  to  pray  to  God,  the  Father  of  all  mer- 
"  cies,  and  God  of  all  consolation,  to  vouchsafe  his 
"  gracious  presence,  and  the  effectual  working  of  his 
"  Spirit  in  us;  and  so  to  sanctify  these  elements,  both 
"  of  bread  and  wine,  and  to  bless  his  own  ordinance, 
"  that  we  may  receive  by  faith  the  body  and  blood  of 
"  Jesus  Christ  crucified  for  us,  and  so  feed  upon 
"  him,  that  he  may  be  one  with  us,  and  we  one  with 
"  him;  that  he  may  live  in  us,  and  we  in  him,  and  to 
"  him  who  hath  loved  us,  and  given  himself  for  us." 

8.  All  which  he  is  to  endeavour  to  perform  with 
suitable  affections,  answerable  to  such  an  holy  action, 
and  to  stir  up  the  like  in  the  people. 

9.  The  elements  being  now  sanctified  by  the  word 
and  prayer,  the  minister,  being  at  the  table,  is  to  take 
the  bread  in  his  hand,  and  say,  in  these  expressions  (or 
other  the  like,  used  by  Christ  or  his  apostle  upon  this 
occasion) : 

"  According  to  the  holy  institution,  command,  and 
c<  example  of  our  blessed  Saviour  Jesus  Christ,  I 
"  take  this  bread ;  and,  having  given  thanks,  break  it, 
"  and  give  it  unto  you" — (here  the  minister  is  to  break 
the  bread,  and  give  it  to  the  communicants);  "  Take 
"  ye,  eat  ye;  this  is  the  body  of  Christ  which  is  broken 
"for  you:  do  this  in  remembrance  of  him." 

In  like  manner  the  minister  is  to  take  the  cup,  and 
say,  in  these  expressions  (or  other  the  like,  used  by 
Christ  or  the  apostle  upon  the  same  occasion): 

"  According  to  the  institution,  command,  and  cx- 
"  ample  of  our  Lord  Jesus  Christ,  1  take  this  cup, 
"  and  give  it  unto  you" — (here  he  givcth  it  to  the 
communicants);  "  This  cup  is  the  iieiv  testament  in  the 
*f  blood  cf  Christ,  which  is  shed  for  the  remission  of : 
%l  sin  of  many:  drink  \e  all  of  it."  The  minister  him1 
is  also  to  communicate. 


San&ificailon  of  the  Lord's  Day.  557 

10.  After  all  have  communicated,  the  minister  may, 
m  a  few  words,  put  them  in  mind 

"  Of  the  grace  of  God  in  Jesus  Christ,  held  forth 
•"  in  this  sacrament ;  and  exhort  them  to  walk  worthy 
"of  it." 

The  minister  is  to  give  solemn  thanks  to  God 
"  For  his  rich  mercy,  and  invaluable  goodness,  vouch- 
"  safed  to  them. in  that  sacrament;  and  to  intreat  for 
"  pardon  for  the  defects  of  the  whole  service,  and  for 
"  the  gracious  assistance  of  his  good  Spirit,  whereby 
(i  they  may  be  enabled  to  walk  in  the  strength  of  that 
"  grace,  as  becometh  those  who  have  received  so  great 
"  pledges  of  salvation." 

11.  Collections,  where  made,  are  so  to  be  ordered, 
that  no  part  of  the  public  worship  be  thereby  hin- 
dered. 

Sect.  VIII.    Of  the  Sanctification  of  the  Lord's 

Day. 

1.  The  Lord's  day  ought  to  be  so  remembered  be- 
forehand, as  that  all  worldly  business  of  our  callings 
may  be  so  ordered,  and  so  timely  and  seasonably  laid 
aside,  as  they  may  not  be  impediments  to  the  due 
sanctifying  of  the  day  when  it  comes. 

2.  The  whole  day  is  to  be  celebrated  as  holy  to  the 
Lord,  both  in  public  and  private,  as  being  the  Chris- 
tian sabbath.  To  which  end,  it  is  requisite  that  there 
be  a  holy  cessation  or  resting  all  that  clay  from  all  un- 
necessary labours;  and  an  abstaining,  not  only  from  all 
sports  and  pastimes,  but  also  from  ail  worldly  words 
and  thoughts,* 

3.  That  the  diet  on  that  day  be  so  ordered,  as  that 
neither  servants  be  unnecessarily  detained  from  the 
public  worship  of  God,  nor  any  other  person  hindered 
from  the  sanctifying  that  day. 

4.  That  there  be  private  preparations  of  every  per- 
son and  family,  by  prayer  for  themselves,  and  for  God's 

*  Isa.  lviii.  13. 


558  Of  Public  Worship.  [Book  III. 

assistance  of  the  minister,  and  for  a  blessing  upon  his 
ministry;  and  by  such  other  holy  exercises,  as  may  fur- 
ther dispose  them  to  a  more  comfortable  communion 
with  God  in  his  public  ordinances. 

5.  That  all  the  people  meet  so  timely  for  public 
worship,  that  the  whole  congregation  may  be  present 
at  the  beginning,  and  with  one  heart  solemnly  join  to- 
gether in  all  parts  of  the  public  worship,  and  not  part 
till  after  the  blessing. 

6.  That  what  time  is  vacant,  between  or  after  the  so- 
lemn meetings  of  the  congregation  in  public,  be  spent 
in  reading,  meditation,  repetition  of  sermons ;  especi- 
ally by  calling  their  families  to  an  account  of  what  they 
have  heard,  and  catechising  of  them;  holy  conferences; 
prayer  for  a  blessing  upon  the  public  ordinances;  sing- 
ing of  psalms;  visiting  the  sick;  relieving  the  poor; 
and  such  like  duties  of  piety,  charity  and  mercy,  ac- 
counting the  sabbath  a  delight. 

Sect.  IX.     Of  Catechising. 

1.  Catechising  is  a  plain  and  familiar  method  of 
conveying  religious  instruction,  and  is  an  essential  part 
of  ministerial  duty. 

2.  For  this  purpose  it  is  warrantable  and  necessary,  to 
use  concise  and  judicious  abridgements  of  Christian  doc- 
trine, particularly  in  the  form  of  question  and  answer. 

3.  The  Larger  and  Shorter  Catechisms  are  to  be  em- 
ployed by  ministers  in  their  catechetical  exercises.  The 
latter,  especially,  is  to  be  committed  to  memory,  and 
repeated  by  the  catechumens.  As  introductory  to  this, 
for  the  help  of  the  young  and  ignorant,  the  smaller  ca- 
techisms, authorized  for  that  purpose,  are  to  be  previ- 
ously learned. 

4.  That  this  excellent  ordinance  may  be  attended 
with  suitable  effects,  the  minister  is  carefully  to  adapt 
his  instructions  to  the  capacities  and  improvements  ot 
his  catechumens — He  is  to  condescend,  vsith  the  ut- 
most tenderness,  to  the  ignorant,  the  weak,  and  the  ti- 


Catechising.  £59 

mid;  studiously  avoiding  whatever  may  confound  or 
expose  them — He  is  to  lead  his  catechumens,  in  a  re- 
gular and  methodical  order,  from  first  principles,  and  the 
more  obvious  fundamental  points,  to  a  more  enlarged 
view  of  those  truths  which  necessarily  arise  out  of  them, 
and  which,  though  equally  useful,  are  less  evident — 
He  is  not  to  debase  the  ordinance  by  using  it  as  an 
occasion  for  displaying  his  own  wit;  or  for  indulging 
in  trifling  and  abstruse  speculations ;  or  for  promoting 
the  strife  of  party — And  he  is,  with  all  fidelity,  seri- 
ously and  solemnly  to  press  the  truths  which  he  ex- 
plains, on  the  consciences  and  hearts  of  those  who 
hear  him. 

5.  It  is  expedient  that  the  catechumens  be  divided 
into  classes  according  to  their  age  and  knowledge.  But 
the  particular  arrangement,  being  materially  affected 
by  local  circumstances,  is  left  to  the  discretion  of  mi- 
nisters. 

Sect.  X.    Concerning  Visitation  of  ///^Sick. 

1 .  It  is  the  duty  of  the  minister  not  only  to  teach 
the  people  committed  to  his  charge  in  public,  but  pri- 
vately ;  and  particularly  to  admonish,  exhort,  reprove 
and  comfort  them,  upon  all  seasonable  occasions,  so 
far  as  his  time,  strength  and  personal  safety  will  per- 
mit. 

2.  He  is  to  admonish  them  in  time  of  health  to 
prepare  for  death ;  and,  for  that  purpose,  they  are  often 
to  confer  with  their  minister  about  the  estate  of  their 
souls;  and,  in  times  of  sickness,  to  desire  his  advice  and 
help,  timely  and  seasonably,  before  their  strength  and 
understanding  fail  them. 

3.  Times  of  sickness  and  affli-flion  are  special  oppor- 
tunities put  into  his  hand  by  God  to  minister  a  word 
in  season  to  weary  souls:  because  then  the  consciences 
of  men  are,  or  should  be,  more  awakened  to  bethink 
themselves  of  their  spiritual  estate  for  eternity;  and  Sa- 
tan also  takes  advantage  then  to  load  them  more  with 


$60  Of  Public  11'urs/tip.  [Book  III 

sore  and  heavy  temptations:  therefore,  the  minister, 
being  sent  for,  and  repairing  to  the  siek .  is  to  apply 
himself,  with  all  tenderness  and  love,  to  administer  some 
spiritual  good  to  the  afflicted, -to  this  effect: 

4.  He  may,  from  the  consideration  of  the  present 
sickness,  instruct  him  out  of  scripture,  'that  diseases 
come  not  by  chance,  or  by  distempers  of  body  only, 
but  by  the  wise  and  orderly  guidance  of  the  good  hand 
of  God  to  every  particular  person  smitten  by  them. 
And  that,  whether  it  be  laid  upon  him  out  of  displea- 
sure for  sin,  for  his  correction  and  amendment,  or  for 
trial  and  exercise  of  his  graces,  or  for  other  special  and 
excellent  ends,  all  his  sufferings  shall  turn  to  his  profit, 
and  work  together  for  his  good,  if  he  sincerely  labour 
to  make  a  sanctified  use  of  God's  visitation,  neither 
despising  his  chastening,  nor  waxing  weary  of  his  cor- 
rection. 

5.  If  he  suspect  him  of  ignorance,  he  shall  examine 
him  in  the  principles  of  religion,  especially  touching 
repentance  and  faith;  and,  as  he  seeth  cause,  instruct 
him  in  the  nature,  use,  excellency,  and  necessity,  of 
those  graces;  as  also  touching  the  covenant  of  grace, 
and  Christ  the  Son  of  God,  the  Mediator  of  it;  and, 
concerning  remission  of  sins  by  faith  in  him. 

6.  He  shall  exhort  the  sick  person  to  examine  him- 
self, to  search  and  try  his  former  ways,  and  his  estate 
towards  God. 

And  if  the  sick  person  shall  declare  any  scruple, 
doubt,  or  temptation  that  are  upon  him,  instructions 
and  resolutions  shall  be  given  to  satisfy  and  settle  him. 

7.  If  it  appear  that  he  hath  not  a  due  sense  of  his 
sins,  endeavours  ought  to  be  used  to  convince  him  of 
his  sins;  of  the  guilt  and  desert  of  them;  of  the  filth 
and  pollution  which  the  soul  contracts  by  them;  and 
of  the  curse  of  the  law,  and  wrath  of  God,  due  to 
them;  that  he  may  be  truly  affected  with  and  humbled 
for  them  :  and  withal  10  make  known  the  danger  of 
deferring  repentance,  and  of  neglecting  solvation  at  any 
time  offered;  to  awaken  his  conscience,  and  rouse  him 


Visitation  of  the  Sick.  561 

tip  out  of  a  stupid  and  secure  condition,  to  apprehend 
the  justice  and  wrath  of  God  before  whom  none  can 
stand,  but  he  that,  lost  in  himself,  layeth  hold  upon 
Christ  by  faith. 

8.  If  he  hath  endeavoured  to  walk  in  the  ways  of 
holiness,  and  to  serve  God  in  uprightness,  although 
hot  without  many  failings  and  infirmities ;  or,  if  his 
spirit  be  broken  with  the  sense  of  sin,  or  cast  down 
through  want  of  the  sense  of  God's  favour ;  then  it 
will  be  fit  to  raise  him  up,  by  setting  before  him  the 
freeness  and  fulness  of  God's  grace,  the  sufficiency  of 
righteousness  in  Christ,  the  gracious  offers  in  the 
gospel,  that  all  who  repent,  and  believe  with  all  their 
heart  in  God's  mercy  through  Christ,  renouncing 
their  own  righteousness,  shall  have  life  and  salvation  in 
him.  It  may  be  also  useful  to  shew  him,  that  death 
hath  in  it  no  spiritual  evil  to  be  feared  by  those  that 
are  in  Chrfst,  because  sin,  the  sting  of  death,  is  takeri 
away  by  Christ,  who  hath  delivered  all  that  are  his 
from  the  bondage  of  the  fear  of  death,  triumphed  over 
the  grave,  given  us  victory,  is  himself  entered  into  glory 
to  prepare  a  place  for  his  people ;  so  that  neither  life 
nor  death  shall  be  able  to  separate  them  from  God's 
love  in  Christ,  in  whom  such  are  sure,  though  now 
they  must  be  laid  in  the  dust,  to  obtain  a  joyful  and 
glorious  resurrection  to  eternal  life. 

9.  Advice  also  may  be  given,  as  to  beware  of  an  ill- 
grounded  persuasion  on  mercy ^  or  on  the  goodness  cf 
his  condition  for  heaven,  so  to  disclaim  all  merit  in 
himself,  and  to  cast  himself  wholly  upon  God  for  mercy* 
in  the  sole  merits  and  mediation  of  Jesus  Christ,- 
who  hath  engaged  himself  never  to  cast  oft'  them  who 
in  truth  and  sincerity  come  unto  him.  Care  also  must 
be  taken  that  the  sick  person  be  not  cast  down  into 
despair,  by  such  a  severe  representation  of  the  wrath  of 
God  due  to  him  for  his  sins,  as  is  not  mollified  by  a 
sensible  propounding  of  Christ  and  his  merit  for  a  door 
of  hope  to  every  penitent  believer. 

io„  When  the  sick  person  is  best  composed ,  may  be 
4B 


562  Of  Public  Worship.  [Book  iff. 

least  disturbed,  and  other  necessary  offices  about  hira 
least  hindered,  the  minister,  it  desired,  shall  pray  with 
him,  and  tor  him,  to  this  effect : 

44  Confessing  and  bewailing  of  sin  original  and  actual : 

44  the  miserable  condition  of  all  by  nature,  as  being 

44  children  of  wrath,  and  under  the  curse ;-  acknowledging 

"  that  all  diseases,  sicknesses,  death,  and  hell  itself,  are 

"  the  proper  issues  and  effects  thereof;  imploring  Go-d's 

"  mercy   for   the  sick  person,  through  the   blood  of 

"  Christ;  beseeching  that  God  would  open  his  eyes, 

"  discover  unto  him  his  sins,  cause  him  to  see  himself 

"  lost  in  himself,  make  known  to  him  the  cause  why 

*•'  God  smitcth  him,  reveal  Jesus  Christ  to  his  soul 

"  for  righteousness  and  lite;  give  unto  him  his  Holy 

"  Spirit,  to  create  and  strengthen  faith  to  lay  hold 

44  upon  Christ,  to  work  in  him  comfortable  evidences 

44  of  his  love,  to  arm  him  against  temptations,  to  take 

"  off  his  heart  from  the  world,  to  sanctify,  his  present 

"  visitation,  to  furnish  him  with  patience  and  strength 

"  to  bear  it7  and  to  give  him  perseverance  in  faith  to 

"  the  end. 

"  That,  if  God  shall  please  to  add  to  his  days,  he 
"  would  vouchsafe  to  bless  and  sanctify  all  means  of  his 
"  recovery;  to  remove  trfe  disease,  renew  his  strength, 
44  and  enable  him  to  walk  worthy  of  God,  by  a  faithful 
44  remembrance,  and  diligent  observing,  of  such  vows  and 
44  promises  of  holiness  and  obedience,  as  men  are  apt  to 
14  make  in  times  of  sickness,  that  he  may  glorify  Gor> 
44  in  the  remaining  part  of  his  hie. 

"  And,  if  God  have  determined  to  finish  his  days  by 
"  the  present  visitation,  that  he  may  find  such  evidence 
44  of  the  pardon  of  all  his  sins,  of  his  interest  in  Christ, 
44  and  eternal  life  by  Christ,  as  may  cause  his  in- 
4'  ward  man  to  be  renewed,  while  his  outward  man 
"  decayeth;  that  he  may  behold  death  without  fear, 
44  cat  himself  wholly  upon  Chris  r,  without  doubting, 
esire  to  be  dissolved  and  to  be  with  Christ,  and  so 
44  receive  the  end  of  his  faith,  the  salvation  of  his  soul,. 
li  through  the  only  merits  and  intercession  of  the  Lord 


"Extraordinary  Days  of  JVorship.  563 

**  Jesus  Christ,  our  alone  Saviour  and  all-sufrici- 
"  ent  Redeemer." 

11.  The  minister  shall  admonish  him  also  (as  there, 
shall  be  cause),  to  set  his  house  in  order,  thereby  to  pre- 
vent jnconveniencies;  to  take  care  for  payment  of  his 
cle.bjs,  and  to  make  restitution  or  satisfaction  where  he 
hath  done  any  wrong ;  to  be  reconciled  to  those  with 
whom  he  hath  been  at  variance,  and  fully  to  forgive  all 
men  their  trespasses  against  him,  as  he  expects  forgive- 
ness at  the  hand  of  God. 

Lastly,  The  minister  may  improve  the  present  occa- 
sion to  exhort  those  about  the  sick  person  to  consider 
their  own  mortality,  to  return  to  the  Lord,  and  malce 
peace  with  him ;  in  health  to  prepare  for  sickness,  death, 
and  judgment;  and  all  the  days  of  their  appointed 
time  so  to  wait  until  their  change  come,  that  when 
Christ,  who  is  our  life,  shall  appear,  they  may  appear 
with  him  in  glory. 


CHAP.  IV. 

Concerning  Extraordinary   Days  for   Public 
Worship. 

1.  r  1  ^HERE  is  no  day  commanded  in  scripture  to 
J^     be  kept  holy  under  the  gospel  but  the  Lord's- 
day,  which  is  the  Christian  sabbath. 

2.  Festival-days,  vulgarly  called  Holy-days, 
having  no  warrant  in  the  word  of  God,  are  not  to  be 
observed. 

3.  Nevertheless,  it  is  lawful  and  necessary,  upon  spe- 
cial emergent  occasions,  to  separate  a  day,  or  days,  for 
public  fastingor  thanksgiving,  as  the  several  eminent  and 
extraordinary  dispensations  of  God's  providence  shall 
administer  cause  and  opportunity  to  his  people. 

4.  The  reason  of  devoting  any  part  of  our  time  to 
extraordinary  religious  worship  being  laid,  not  in  the 
will  of  man,  but  in  the  will  of  God,  declared  in  his 
word,  and  manifested  in  the  extraordinary  dispensations 


564  Of  Public  Worship.  [Book-IIL 

of  his  providence,  no  human  authority  can  create  any 
obligation  to  observe  such  days.  Nevertheless,  when 
the  call  of  providence  is  clear,  civil  or  religious  rulers 
may,  for  concentering  the  general  devotion,  specify  and 
recommend  a  particular  season  to  be  spent  in  fasting  or 
thanksgiving.  Nor,  without  very  weighty  reasons,  are 
such  recommendations  to  be  disregarded. 


CHAP.  V. 

Concerning  Public  Solemn  Fasting. 

1 .  X  T  THEN  some  great  and  notable  judgments  arc 
V  V  either  inflicted  upon  a  people,  or  apparently 
imminent,  or  by  some  extraordinary  provocations  no- 
toriously deserved;  as  also  when  some  special  blessing 
is  to  be  sought  and  obtained;  public  solemn  fasting 
(which  is  to  continue  the  whole  day)  is  a  duty  that  God 
expecl:eth  from  that  nation  or  people. 

2.  A  religious  fast  requires  total  abstinence,  not  only 
from  all  food  (unless  bodily  weakness  do  manifestly 
disable  from  holding  out  till  the  fast  be  ended,  in  which 
case  somewhat  may  be  taken,  vet  very  sparingly,  to 
support  nature,  when  ready  to  faint),  but  also  from  all 
worldly  labour,  discourses  and  thoughts,  and  from  all 
bodily  delights,  (although  at  other  times  lawful),  rich 
apparel,  ornaments,  and  such  like,  during  the  last ;  and 
much  more  from  whatever  is  scandalous  and  offensive, 
as  gaudy  attire,  lascivious  habits  and  gestures,  and 
other  vanities  of  either  sex;  which  we  recommend 
to  all  ministers,  in  their  places,  diligently  and  zeal- 
ously to.  reprove,  as  at  other  (inu  .  1  specially  at 
a  last,  without  respect  of  persons,  as  there  shall  be 
occasion. 

3.  Before  the  public  meeting,  each  family  and  person 
apart  aie  private Iv  to  use  all  religious  care  to  prepare 
their  hearts  to  such  a  solemn  work,  and  to  be  early  at 
the  congregation. 

1.  So  large  a  portion  of  the  day  as  conveniently  may 


Fasting.  565 

be,  is  to  be  spent  in  public  reading  and  preaching  of  the 
word,  with  singing  of  psalms,  fit  to  quicken  affections 
suitable  to  such  a  duty  :  but  especially  in  prayer,  to  this 
or  the  like  effect : 

"  Giving  glory  to  the  great  Majesty  of  God,  the 
H  Creator,  Preserver,  and  supreme  Ruler  of  all  the  world, 
"  the  better  to  affect  us  thereby  with  an  holy  reverence 
■"  and  awe  of  him:  acknowledging  his  manifold,  great, 
M  and  tender  mercies,  especially  to  the  church  and  na- 
fs  tion,  the  more  effectually  to  soften  and  abase  our 
H  hearts  before  him :  humbly  confessing  our  sins  of  ail 
«  sorts,  with  their  several  aggravations ;  justifying  G od's 
fl  righteous  judgments,  as  being  far  less  than  our  sins 
"  deserve;  yet  humbly  and  earnestly  imploring  his 
K  mercy  and  grace  for  ourselves,  the  church  and  nation, 
"  for  all  in  authority,  and  for  all  others  for  whom  we 
"  are  bound  to  pray  (according  as  the  present  exigency 
"  requireth),  with  more  special  importunity  and  enlarge-? 
-"  ment  than  at  other  times :  applying  by  faith  the  pro- 
"  misesand  goodness  of  God  for  pardon,  help  and  de- 
f  liverance f rom  the  evils  felt,  feared,  or  deserved;  and 
"  for  obtaining  the  blessings  which  we  need  and  expect ; 
"  together  with  a  giving  up  of  ourselves  wholly  and  for- 
"  ever  unto  the  Lord." 

5.  In  all  these  the  ministers,  who  are  the  mouths  of  the 
people  unto  God,  ought  so  to  speak  from  their  hearts, 
upon  serious  and  thorough  premeditation  of  them,  that 
both  themselves  and  their  people  may  be  much  affected, 
and  even  melted  thereby,  especially  with  sorrow  for  their 
sins;  that  it  may  be  indeed  a  day  of  deep  humiliation 
and  afflicting  of  the  soul, 

6.  Special  choice  is  to  be  made  of  such  scriptures  to 
be  read,  and  of  such  texts  for  preaching,  as  may  best 
work  the  hearts  of  the  hearers  to  the  special  business  of 
the  day,  and  most  dispose  them  to  humiliation  and  re- 
pentance ;  insisting  most  on  those  particulars  which  each 
minister's  observation  and  experience  tell  him  are  most 
conducing  to  the  edification  and  reformation  of  that 
fongregation  to  which  he  preacheth. 


566  Of  Public  Worship.  [Book  III. 

7.  Before  the  close  of  the  public  duties,  the  minis- 
ter is,  in  his  own  and  the  people's  names,  to  engage  his 
and  their  hearts  to  be  the  Lord's,  with  professed  pur- 
pose and  resolution  to  reform  whatever  is  amiss  among 
them,  and  more  particularly  such  sins  as  they  have  been 
more  remarkably  guilty  of;  and  to  draw  near  unto  God, 
and  to  walk  more  closely  and  taithtully  with  him  in  new 
obedience,  than  ever  before. 

8.  He  is  also  to  admonish  the  people,  with  all  impor- 
tunity, that  the  work  of  that  day  doth  not  end  writh 
the  public  duties  of  it ;  but  that  they  arc  so  to  improve 
the  remainder  of  the  day,  and  of  their  whole  life,  in  in- 
forcing  upon  themselves  and  their  families,  in  private, 
all  these  godly  affections  and  resolutions  which  they  pro- 
fessed in  public,  as  that  they  may  be  settled  in  their 
hearts  for  ever,  and  themselves  may  more  sensibly  find 
that  God  hath  smelled  a  sweet  savour  in  Christ  from 
their  performances,  and  is  pacified  towards  them,  by 
answers  of  grace,  in  pardoning  of  sin,  in  removing  of 
judgments,  in  averting  or  preventing  of  plagues,  and  in 
conferring  of  blessings,  suitable  to  the  conditions  and 
prayers  of  his  people,  by  Jesus  Christ. 

q.  Beside  solemn  and  general  fasts,  we  judge  that, 
at  other  times,  congregations  may  keep  days  of  fast- 
ing, as  divine  Providence  shall  administer  unto  them 
special  occasion ;  and  also  that  families  may  do  the  same, 
so  it  be  not  on  days  wherein  the  congregation  to  which 
they  belong  is  to  meet  for  fasting,  or  other  public  du- 
ties of  worship. 


CHAP.  VI. 
Concerning  the  Observation  of  Days  of  Public 

TlIANKSGIVI  \ 

1.  XT  THEN  any  such  day  is  to  be  kept,  let  notice 
VV     ^c  glvcn  °f  't,  and  ot  the  occasion  thereof, 
some  convenient  time  before,  that  the  people  may  the 
better  prepare  themselves  thereunto. 


Thanksgiving.  567 

2.  The  day  being  come,  and  the  congregation  (after 
private  preparations)  being  assembled,  the  minister  is  to 
begin  with  a  word  of  exhortation,  to  stir  up  the  people 
to  the  duty  for  which  they  are  met,  and  with  a  short 
prayer  for  God's  assistance  and  blessing  (as  at  other 
conventions  for  public  worship)  according  to  the  parti- 
cular occasion  of  their  meeting. 

3.  And,  because  singing  of  psalms  is  of  all  other  the 
most  proper  ordinance  for  expressing  of  joy  and  thanks- 
giving, let  some  pertinent  psalm  or  psalms  be  sung  for 
that  purpose,  before  or  after  the  reading  of  some  portion 
of  the  word  suitable  to  the  present  business. 

4.  Then  let  the  minister,  who  is  to  preach,  proceed 
to  further  prayer  before  his  sermon,  with  special  refer- 
ence to  the  present  work  ;  after  which,  let  him  preach 
upon  some  text  of  scripture  pertinent  to  the  occasion. 

5.  The  sermon  ended,  let  him  not  only  pray,  as  at 
other  times  is  dire&ed,  with  remembrance  of  the  neces- 
sities of  the  church  and  state  (if  before  the  sermon 
they  were  omitted),  but  enlarge  himself  in  due  and  so- 
lemn thanksgiving  for  former  mercies  and  deliverances; 
but  more  especially  for  that  which  at  the  present  calls 
them  together  to  give  thanks :  with  humble  petition 
for  the  continuance  and  renewing  of  God's  wonted  mer- 
cies, as  need  shall  be,  and  for  sanctifying  grace  to  make 
a  right  use  thereof.  And  so,  having  sung  another  psalm 
suitable  to  the  mercy,  let  him  dismiss  the  congregation 
with  a  blessing,  that  they  may  have  some  convenient 
time  for  their  repast  and  refreshing. 

6.  But  the  minister  (before  their  dismssion)  is  so- 
lemnly to  admonish  them  to  beware  of  all  excess  and 
riot,  tending  to  gluttony  or  drunkenness,  and  much 
more  of  these  sins  themselves,  in  their  eating  and  re- 
freshing; and  to  take  care  that  their  mirth  and  rejoic- 
ing be  not  carnal,  but  spiritual,  which  may  make  God's 
praise  to  be  glorious,  and  themselves  humble  and  sober ; 
and  that  both  their  feeding  and  rejoicing  may  render 
them  more  cheerful  and  enlarged,  further  to  celebrate 


5-68  Of  Private  Worship.  [Book  tffc 

his  praises  in  the  midst  of  the  congregation,  when  they 
return  unto  it  in  the  remaining  part  of  the  day. 

7.  When  the  congregation  shall  be  again  assembled, 
the  like  course  in  praying,  reading,  preaching,  singing 
psalms,  and  offering  up  ot  more  praise  and  thanksgiving, 
that  is  before  directed  tor  the  morning,  is  to  be  renewed 
and  continued,  so  far  as  the  time  will  give  leave. 

8.  At  one  or  both  of  the  public  meetings  that  day,  a 
colled  ion,  if  necessary,  is  to  be  made  for  the  poor  (and 
in  the  like  manner  upon  the  day  of  public  humiliation), 
that  their  loins  may  bless  us,  and  rejoice  the  more  with 
us.  And  the  people  are  to  be  exhorted,  at  the  end  of 
the  latter  meeting,  to  spend  the  residue  of  that  day  in 
holy  duties,  and  testimonies  ot  Christian  love  and  cha- 
rity one  towards  another,  and  of  rejoicing  more  and 
more  in  the  Lord;  as  beeometh  those  who  make  the 
joy  of  the  Lord  their  strength. 


CHAP.  Vll. 

'Directory/It  secret  and  private  Worship. 

BESIDES  the  public  worship  in  congregations,  se- 
cret worship  of  each  person  alone,  and  private 
woi  ship  of  families,  is  carefully  to  be  observed,  that  the 
profession  and  power  of  godliness,  both  personal  and  do- 
mestic, may  be  advanced. 

1.  And  first  i  For  secret  worship,  it  is  most  neces- 
sary that  every  one,  by  himself,  be  given  to  prayer  and 
meditation  ;  the  unspeakable  benefit  whereof  is  best 
known  to  them  who  are  most  exercised  therein :  this 
being  the  mean  whereby,  in  a  special  way,  communion 
with  God  is  entertained,  and  right  preparation  for  all 
other  duties  obtained  ;  and,  therefore,  it  beeometh  not 
only  pastors,  within  their  several  charges,  to  press  per- 
sons of  all  sorts  to  perform  this  duty  morning  and  even- 
ing, and  at  other  occasions;  but  also  it  is  incumbent 
on  heads  of  families  to  have  a  care,  that  both  them- 


Of  Private  Worship.  569 

selves,  and  all  within  their  charge,  be  daily  diligent 
herein. 

2.  The  ordinary  duties  to  bt  performed  in  family 
worship,  morning  and  evening,  are  these: 

Praise  ;  which  is  to  be  done  by  singing  a  psalm,  or 
part  of  a  psalm;  and  wherein  all  the  members  of  the 
family  should  be  careful  to  join.tf 

Reverent  reading  of  the  holy  scriptures. £ 

Solemn  prayer/  with  reference  as  well  to  the 
public  condition  of  the  church,  and  of  the  land,  as  to 
the  present  case  of  the  family,  and  the  special  circum- 
stances of  any  of  the  members  thereof. 

2.  These  exercises  may  be  profitably  introduced  with 
a  short  and  fervent  ejaculation  to  the  following  effect : 

"  That  the  Lord,  who  reqtiireth  us  to  worship  hinx 
"  in  spirit  and  in  truth*  would  compose  our  minds, 
"  and  fix  our  attention  in  the  duties  now  to  be  entered 
"  upon;  assist  us  in  every  part  thereof;  and  make  them 
"  subservient  to  his  glory  and  the  refreshment  of  out 
"  souls;  by  filling  us  with  a  sense  of  his  presence;  lift— 
"  ing  our  hearts  to  things  above,  and  vouchsafing  us 
"  his  gracious  communion  through  our  Lord  Jesus 
"  Christ." 

3.  In  the  prayer  which,  succeeds  to  reading  of  the 
scriptures,  they  who  conduct  the  worship  of  families 
should  endeavour,  as  occasion  may  demand,  to  spread, 
before  the  Lord  its  special  circumstances  in  their  peti- 
tions; the  substance  whereof  may,  in  general,  be  to  the 
ensuing  effect: 

"  Let  them  confess  to  God  how  unworthy  they  are 
"  to  come  into  his  presence,  and  how  unfit  to  worship 
"  his  Majesty ;  and,  therefore,  earnestly  ask  of  him  the 
"  Spirit  of  prayer. 

"•They  are  to  confess  their  sins,  and  the  sins  of  the 
"  family ;  accusing,  judging,  and  condemning  them- 
"  selves  for  them;  and  aiming  to  bring  their  souls  to 
"  some  measure  of  true  humiliation. 

a  Col.  ill-  16.  b  Deut.  vi.  6,  7.  John  v.  39.  Afts  xvii.  i.J» 
c  Mat.  xviii.  20.  with  Jerem.  x.  25. 

4C 


5/3  Of  Private  H'' or s hi f).  [Book  III, 

"  Thcv  are  to  pour  out  their  hearts  to  God,  in  th^ 
"  name  ot  Christ,  by  the  Spirit,  for  forgiveness  of 
"  sins;  for  grace  to  believe,  repent,  and  to  live  soberly, 
"  righteously,  and  godly;  and  that  they  may  serve 
"  God  with  joy  and  delight,  walking  betore  him. 

"  They  are  to  give  thanks  to  God  for  his  many  mer- 
"  eies  to  his  people,  and  to  themselves,  and  especially 
"  for  his  love  in  Christ,  and  for  the  light  of  the  gos- 
"  pel. 

"  They  are  to  pray  for  such  particular  benefits,  spi  • 
"  ritual  and  temporal,  as  they  stand  in  need  of  for  the 
"  time,  whether  it  be  morning  or  evening;  as  concern- 
"  ing  health  or  sickness,  prosperity  or  adversity. 

"  They  ought  to  pray  for  the  churches  of  Christ 
"  in  general,  and  tor  the  church  and  congregation 
"  whereof  they  are  members  in  particular;  for  the  place 
4i  where  they  reside;  and  tor  magistrates,  ministers, 
"  and  the  community  at  large. 

"  The  prayer  may  be  closed  with  an  earnest  desire 
"  that  God  may  be  glorified  in  the  coming  of  the  king- 
'.'  dom  of  his  Son,  and  in  doing  ot  his  will ;  and  with  as- 
"  surance  that  themselves  are  accepted,  and  their  peti- 
"  tions\igreeable  to  his  will  shall  be  granted,  through 
"  the  merit  and  intercession  of  the  Lord  Jesus 
"  Christ." 

4.  These  exercises  ought  to  be  performed  in  great 
sincerity  and  regularity,  neither  tediously  prolonged, 
nor  slightly  passed  over;  laying  aside  all  worldly  busi- 
ness; studiously  avoiding  and  removing  every  hindrance* 
and  persisting  therein  with  holy  firmness,  notwithstand- 
ing the  common  and  sinful  negligence  of  professors  of 
religion,  and  thescorfings  of  ungodly  men. 

5.  The  head  of  the  family  to  whom  bclongcth  the 
ordinary  performance  ot  the  exercises  of  family  worship, 
is  to  see  that  none  of  the  family  withdraw  from  any  part 
thereof.  And  that  the  attendance  of  all  the  memoers 
of  the  family  may  be  punctual,  and  interruptions  from 
others  ]  d,  it  would  be  profitable  to  observe,  as 
much  kas  may  be,  a  stated  hour,  especially  in  the  even- 


Of  Private  Worship.  tfx 

ing;  which  should  always  be  so  early  that  the  family, 
when  called  to  the  worship  of  God,  may  not  be  disfitted 
with  sleep. 

6.  Where  the  head  of  the  family  is  unfit  for  leadino- 
the  worship,  another,  constantly  residing  therein,  may  be 
employed  in  that  service  till  the  former  be  prepared  for 
taking  it  upon  himself ;  and,  for  this  end  he  is  diligent- 
ly to  use  the  means  to  which  he  hath  access. 

7.  At  family-worship,  each  family  is  to  keep  by  it- 
self, neither  requiring,  inviting,  nor  admitting  persons 
from  other  families,  unless  it  be  those  who  are  lodged 
with  them,  or  at  meals,  or  otherwise  with  them  upon 
lawful  occasions. 

8.  Besides  the  ordinary  duties  above  mentioned,  ex- 
traordinary duties,  both  of  humiliation  and  thanksgiv- 
ing, are  to  be  carefully  performed  in  families  when  the 
Lord,  by  extraordinary  occasions,  private  or  public, 
calleth  for  them. 

9.  For  as  much  as  the  conscientious  observance  of 
family  worship  hath  lamentably  fallen  into  decay  among 
professors,  it  is  enjoined  on  the  officers  of  the  church, 
to  use  every  exertion  that  it  may  be  duly  maintained 
by  those  under  their  charge ;  to  deal  with,  and  censure, 
according  to  their  offence,  such  church-members  as 
shall  be  found  remiss  therein;  and  by  no  means  to 
admit,  either  to  the  table  of  the  Lord,  or  to  baptism 
for  their  children,  any  by  whom  it  is  habitually  neg- 


APPENDIX    I. 


No.  I. 

Form  of  Testimonials  to  Members  on  leaving  the  Congregation. 

THESE  certify,  that  A.  B.*  has  been  in  communion  with  the 
Associate-Reformed  Church,  at  in  the  f  of         and 

State  of         for  J  immediately  preceding  the  date  hereof;  that 

his  ||  principles  and  deportment,  as  far  as  known  to  us,  are  agreeable 
to  the  gospel;  and  that  he  may  be  admitted  to  the  privileges  of  any 
Christian  church  to  which  the  providence  of  God  may  direct  him, 

C.  D.     Minister. 


Given  at        this         day  of 
A.  D.  18 


E.  P    7 

CHI   ^-u^n£  Elders. 


No.  II. 
Testimonial  for  Members  ivlw  have  been  some  Time  absent. 

THESE  certify,  that  A.  B.*  was  in  communion  with  the  Asso- 
ciate-Reformed Church  at  in  the  of  and  State  of 
for  preceding  last:  that  at  the  time  of  his  departure  from 
this  place,  his  principles  and  deportment  were,  as  far  as  known  to  us, 
agreeable  to  the  gospel;  and  that  we  have  heard  of  nothing  since, 
which  ought  to  preclude  him  from  the  privileges  of  the  Christian 
church. 

C.  D.     Minister. 

q"  jr  >    Ruling  Elders. 

Given  at         this         dav  of 
A.  D.  18 


No.  ill. 
Form  of  an  Application  for  the  Moderation  of  a  Call. 
THE  Associate-Reformed-  Church  at  in  the  of  and 
State  of  under  the  inspection  of  the  Presbytery  of  being  at 
present  vacant,  anxious  to  obtain  the  stated  administration  of  the 
word  and  ordinances  among  them,  and  finding  themselves  able  and 
willing  to  support  it,  assembled  at  on  the  day  of  18  and 
agreed  to  petition,  and  do  hereby  most  heartily  petition,  the  Presby- 

*  A  single  or  married  man  or  woman,  as  the  case  may  be. 
f  County,  township,  city,  or  otherwise. 
%  Time  of  continuance  hi  communion. 
fl  Or  her,  &c. 


574  Appendix  I. 

terv  for  a  moderation  of  a  call,  and  appoint  A.  B.  and  CD.  their 
commissioners,  to  represent  them,  in  this  behalf,  to  the  Presbytery  at 
next  meeting. 

By  order  of  the  congregation, 

E.  F.  Moderator. 
Done  at         the         day  of 

A.D.  18 


N-.  IV. 

Atle<tation  of  a  Call. 
I  DO  hereby  certify,  thar,  agreeably  to  Presbyterial  appointment, 
I  preached  on  the  day  of  in  the  vacancy  of  under  the 

inspection  of  the  Presbytery  of         in  the  State  of         and  presided 
at  the  moderation  of  a  call  for  a  Pastor  to  said  vacancy;   winch  was 
made  out  for  Mr.  A.  B.  under  the  inspection  of  the  Presbytery  of 
(Signed)  C.  D.  Moderator. 

Done  at         on  the         day  of 
A.  D.  iS 


No.  V. 

form  of  a  Call. 
WE,  the  elders  and  members  of  the  Associate-Reformed  Church 
at  in  the  of  and  State  of  being  destitute   of  a 

fixed  Pastor,  and  being  assured  by  good  information,  and  our  own 
experience,  of  the  ministerial  abilities,  piety,  literature  and  pru- 
dence, as  also  of  the  suitableness  of  the  gifts  or  you,  Mr.  A.  B.  have 
agreed  to  invite,  call,  and  intreat;  and,  by  these  presents,  do  heartily 
ini  ite,  call,  and  intreat  you,  to  undertake  the  office  of  Pastor  among 
lis,  and  the  charge  of  our  souls;  and  on  your  acceptance  of  this  our 
call,  promise  you  all  due  support,  respect,  encouragement  and  obe- 
dience in  the  Lord.  In  Witness  whereof,  we  have  hereunto  sub- 
scribed our  names,  this  day  of  in  the  year  of  our  Lord 
one  thousand 

Done  at         in  the         of        and  State  of 
Witnei 

C.  D. 
.  E.  1. 


\  [. 

1  of  Licensure, 
TIN'.  A  90  iate-Refonned  Presbyter)  in  the  State  of 

fficientty  certified  of  the  literature,  abilities,  and  piety  of 
Mr.  A..B.  student  in  divinity;  and  having,  thereupon,  admitted  him 
to  trials  tor  licence;  and  he  having  acquitted  himself  to  their  satis- 
faction in  all  the  1  they  did,  at  their  meeting  on 
the  day  of  at  in  the  of  and  State  of  and  hereby 
do,  in  the  name  of  the  Lord  Jesus  Christ,  allow  and  appoint  him, 


appendix  I.  $»  * 

the  said  Mr.  A.  B.  to  preach  the  gospel  of  peace  within  their  bounds, 

and  in  ail  other  places  to  which  the  providence  of  God  may  call  him, 

By  order  of  the  Presbytery, 

C.  D.     Moderator, 


Given  at         in  the         of        and 
State  of        this         day  of 


E.  F.     Clerk. 


No.  VII. 
Form  of  an  EdlcJ. 
THE  Associate -Re  formed  Presbyterv  of         in  the  State  of 
having  received  a  regular  call  from  the  congregation  at     '   in  the 
of         and  State  of         to  Mr.  A.  B.  preacher  of  the  gospel,  to 
be  their  Minister;  and  the  said  Mr.  A.  B.  having  underaone  trials 
for  ordination  ;  and  the  Presbyterv  judging  him  qualified  for  the  mi- 
nistry of  the  gospel,  and  fit  to  be  Pastor  of  this  congregation,  the 
call  whereof  has  been  by  him  accepted,  have  resolved"™  proceed  to 
his  ordination  on  the         day  of         unless  somewhat  occur  which 
may  lawfully  impede  it;  and  therefore  do  hereby  give  notice  to  all 
concerned,  that  it  they,  or  any  of  them  have  ought  to  objecl,  why 
the  said  Mr.  A.  B.  should  not  be  admitted  Pastor  of  this  congela- 
tion, they  may  repair  to  the  Presbytery,   which  is  to  meet  at  &     on 
the        day  of        with  certification,  that  if  no  objection  be  then 
made,  the  Presbytery  will  proceed  without  farther  delay. 
By  order  of  the  Presbyterv, 

C.  D.     Moderator. 
~  ,  E.  F.     Clerk. 

Done  at         on  the         day  of         18 

No.  VIII. 
m  Form  of  Testimonials  of  Ordination. 

THE  Associate-Reformed  Presbytery  of  in  the  State  of 
having  received  a  regular  call  from  the  congregation  at  '  in  the 
of  _  and  State  of  to  Mr.  A.  B.  preacher  of  the  gospel,  took  him 
on  trials  for  ordination,  and  having  judged  him  to  be  duly  qualified 
tor  the  office  of  the  gospel  ministry,  and,  in  particular,  for  the  pas- 
toral charge  of  the  congregation  at  and  being  presbyterially  as- 
sembled within  the  bounds  of  said  congregation,  on  the  day  of 
did  then  and  there  solemnly  set  apart  the  said  Mr.  A.  B.  in*  the 
iace  of  the  whole  congregation  there  present,  to  the  office  of  the  holy 
ministry  iq  the  said  congregation,  and  did  afterwards  receive  him  into 
ministerial  communion.* 

By  order  of  the  Presbyterv, 

C.  D.     Moderator. 
0.  ,  E.  F.     Clerk. 

Given  at         on  the         day  of         18 

*  When  a  candidate  is  ordained  to  the  ministry  at  large,  or  when  the  Pres- 

nuis  must  be  varied  accordingly. 


576  Appendix  i. 

No.  IX. 

Form  of  a  Transfer,  in  case  of  a  Call,  from  one  Presbytery  t)  a/tot 

THE  Associate-Reformed  Presbytery  at  in  the  State  of 
having  received  from  the  Presbytery  at  in  the  State  of  a 
call  for  Mr.  A.  E.  +  to  the  pastoral  charge  of  the  congregation  at 
under  the  inspection  of  the  Presbytery  abovementioned,  and 
the  said  call  being  by  them  approved,  and  by  him  accepted,  they 
did,  and  hereby  do,f  [dissolve  his  present  pastoral  relation  and] 
transfer  and  remit  him  to  the  Presbytery  at  for.]:  in  the  pasto- 
ral  charge  of  the  said  congregation  at 

By  order  of  the  Presbytery, 

C.  D.     Moderator. 
E.  F.     Clerk. 
Done  at         on  the         day  of         iS 


No.  X. 
Form  of  a  Commission  to  the  General  Synod. 

IT  is  hereby  certified,  that  the  Associate-Reformed  Presbytery 
of         in  the  State  of        at  their  meeting  on  the  day   of 

did,  and  hereby  do,  appoint  Mr.  A.  13.  minuter  at  Mr.  C. 
D.  minister  at  with  Mr.  E.  F.  and  Mr.  G.  H.  Ruling  Elders, 
their  commissioners  to  the  next  General  Synod  of  this  church,  to 
meet  at  on  the  day  of  next  ensuing;  or  when  and  where 
it  shall  happen  to  meet;  enjoining  them  to  repair  thither,  and  attend 
at  all  the  sittings  thereof;  and  there  to  consult,  vote,  and  determine 
in  all  matters  that  come  before  them,  according  to  the  word  of  God, 
and  the  constitution  and  standards  of  this  church,  as  they  will  be 
answerable;  and  that  they  report  their  diligence  herein  at  their 
return. 

By  order  of  the  Presbytery, 

J.  K.     Moderator. 


L.  M.     Clerk. 


Done  at         this         day  of 


No.  XI. 
Form  of  a  Libel. 

LIBEL  preferred  against  A.  B.  by  order  of  I 

Wh  cre  as,  (here  insert  the  crime  lihclle.l)  I  heinous  sin  and 

*  Preacher  of  tin:  gospel,  or  minister  of  the  congregation  at  as  the  case 
may  require. 

f  The  words  between  the  brackets  [  ]  to  be  omitted  if  the  candidate  be  a 
probationer. 

\  Ordination,  or  installvcnr,  as  may  be  Decenary. 

§  SetUOD,  l'r.  shytny,  or  other  court,  as  may  happen,  and  if  the  libel  be 
prosecuted  by  an  individual,  add,  and  at  the  instance  of  C.  D. 

||  Or  are  heinous  sim  and  scandals. 


Appendix  I.  £77 

scandal,  contrary to  the  word  of  God,  and  to  the  profession  of  this 
church  founded  thereon ;  repugnant  to  the  Christian  character,  and 
injurious  to  the  religion  of  the  Lord  Jesus: 

Yet  true  it  is,  that  you,   (here  insert  the  name  and  designation  of 
the  accusjed)  are  guilty  .of  the  matter*  of  scandal  above-mentioned. 

In  so  far  as  you  the  said         did         at         on  the   ,      day  of 

or  thereabouts,   (here  insert  thefatts)\         being  found  relevant 

and  proved  against  you,  you  ought  to  be  proceeded  against  by  the 

censures  of  the  Lord's  house,  according  to  the  nature  of  your  said 

offencej  and  scandal. 

(Signed)  E.  F.     Moderator. 


G.  H.     Clerk. 


Done  in         at       •  this         day  of 


No.  XII. 

Form  of  a  Citation. 
BY  order  of  the  §  .       you,  Mr.  A.  B.||         are  hereby  summoned^ 
to  appear  before  said         and  answer  to  the  libel  herewith  presented, 
at         on  the         day  of  and  at         o'clock  in  the 

(Signed)  C.  D.     Moderator. 

E.  F    Clerk. 
Done  in         at         this      .    day  of 


No.  XIII. 
Form  of  a  Citation  to  Witnesses. 
BY  order  of  the§         you  Mr.  A.  B.||         are  hereby  summoned^!" 

.  •  ■  '-■-'',. 

I  *  Or- matters. ,  ../....' 

,   When  there  are  several  charges,  each  must  he  distinctly  laid^  in  the  .manner, 
above  specified,  proceeding  in  the  libel  thus: 

And  Whereas,  Sec.  . 

The  fails  also  are  to  be  enumerated  so  as  to  correspond  with  the  several  char" 
ges.  -Thus,  the  facts  for  supporting  the  first  charge  being  introduced  with* 
In  so  far  as,  &c.  for  supporting  the  second,  third,  &c.  will  be  introduced 
with, 

And  Further,  you  the  said,  &c — till  the  end. 
,  f  To  be  filled  up  with,,  which,  if  there  he  but  one  charge,  or  if  more  than 
one,  with  all  which  articles  or  several  of  them  ;  and  if  the  scandals 
be  each  of  them  censurable  independently  on  the  rest,  with,  all  which  ar- 
ticles or  several,  or  any  of  them.  Otherwise  the  words,  or  ant,  are 
to  be  left-tmt:  since  a  libel  may  be  found  relevant  from  a  combination  of  articles, 
none  of  which  taken  singly  could  warrant  censure. 

\  Or  offences. 
I    sjjr  All  libels  issued  in  the  name  of  a  prosecutor,  are  to  be  made  out  accord- 
ingly, and  subscribed  by  himself.     .  .         ,       i     ,     . 

§  Session  of  the  Associate-Reformed  church  at  or  the  Associate-Re* 
formed  Presbytery  of  &c. 

(|   Member  of,  or  elder  or  deacon  in  said  congregation:   or  minister  at 
under  the  inspection  of  said  Presbytery;  and  if  the  accused  belong  to  a  different 
Judicatory,  the  blank  is  to  be  filled  up  accordingly. 

:    f -If  tfte  pr.o«e6s  be  raised  at  the  instance  of  a  party  complaining,  add  aftG? 
"  summoned,"  at  the  instance  of  CD, 

4D 


3/1 


Jppendix  T. 


to  appear  before  said         at         on  the         day  of         and  at 
o'clock  in  the         to  »ive  your  testimony  in  the  case  of  C.  D.  pre- 
sently under  process  for  censure,  by  said 

(Signed)  E.  F.  ri  Moderator. 

G.  H.     Clerk. 
Done  in  W         this         day  of 

'      No.  XIVv 

Farm  of  the  Oath  to  be  administered  to  Witnesses. 

YOU  do  sti'ear  by  the  living  God,  that  the  testimony  which,  in 
answer  to  questions  or  otherwise,  you  are  now  to  give  in  the  case  of 
A.  B.  under  process,  before  this  judicatory,  for  the  sin  and  scandal 
of  shall  be,  to  the  best  of  your  knowledge,  the  truth,  the  whole 
truth,  and  nothing  but  the  truth;  and  that  as  you  shall  account  to 
God,  m  the  day  when  he  shall  judge  the  world  by  Jesus  Christ. 


No.  XV. 

form  of  an  Aft  of  'public  Suspension. 

WHEREAS  A.  B.*         hath  been  convi&ed  before  the+        of 
[And  whereas  the  have,  from  time  to  time,  and  in  the 

spirit  of  meekness,  endeavoured,  without  effect,  to  reclaim  their  of- 
fending brother ]§  and  whereas  his  continuing  in  his  sin,  and  refusing 
to  listen  to  the  admonitions  of  his  brethren,  render  it  necessary  for 
the  honour  of  Christ  Jesus,  for  the  purity  of  his  religion;  for  a 
warning  to  others, -and  for  his  own  benefit,  to  inflict  on  him  a  public 
censure  of  the  Lord's  house;  the  did,  and  hereby  do,  in  the 
Dame. of  the  Lord.  Jesus  Christ,  and  as  a  court  constituted  in  his 
name,  suspend  and  exclude  the  said  A.  13.  from  the  privileges  of  the 
church,  tilliie  return  from  the  error  of  his  wayr  and  give  solid  proofs 
of  unfeigned  repentance. 



\o.  XVI. 

Form  './  tin  4ft  if  Suspension  or  Deposition  from  Office. 

WHEREAS  A.  B.         hath  been  convicled  before  the         of 
and  whereas  it  is  especially  needful,  that  office-bearers  in  the  house 
of   God   be   sound  in   the  faith,  of  good  report,   and,   by   their 

*  Member,  or   dldkr,  or  deacon,  of  this  congregation" ;  or  minister, 

cleler,  deacon,  or  member  of  the  congregation  at 

i  Session  of  this  church,  or  .Session  of  the  church  at         or  Fresbytcry  of 

§  The  clause  included  in  [     ]  to  be  omitted  in  cases  where  a  public  suspeiv 

*ion  may  be  necessary  >yithout  these  previous  steps, 


Appendix  I.  t'jq 

blameless  conversation,  ensamples  to  the  flock  ;  and  whereas  the  con  - 
tiuuance  of  the.  said  A.  B.  in  the  station  which  he  presently  holds, 
is,  for  these  reasons,  incompatible  with  the  welfare  of  the  church, 
the  ,  .  nlpresaid  did,  and  hereby  do,  in  the  name,  -and  .by  the  au- 
thority of  the  Lord. Jesus  Christ,  and  according  to  the  powers 
committed  by  him  unto  them  as  a  court  constituted  in  his  name,* 
the  said  A.  B.  from  the  office  of  thef  prohibiting  Uim  from 
all  and  any  exercise  of  the  said  office  of  thef  in  the"  church  of 
Christ  ;  till  he  be  lawfully  restored  thereto, 

(Signed)  C.  D,-  Moderator.  , 

•  E.  ,F.  Clerk. 

Done  in         at        this        day  of 

Kf3  The  above  form  is  to  be  observed  in  those  cases  where,  according  to 
the  discipline  of  the  church,  (Book  ii.  chap.  v.  4.)  siilpension  ordejiosi- 
tion  is  necessary,  whatever  contrition  be  manifested;  but  in  the  event  of 
contumacy,  or  persisting  in  the  scandal,  the  following  clauses  are  to  be 
added  immediately  before  the  signature  of  the  Moderator  and  Clerk. 

"  And  wHEREAsthe  said  A-  B.  "hath  manifested,  and  doth  still 
"  manifest  contumacious  resistance  to  that  authority  to  which  he 
"  oweth  subjeAion  in  the  Lord,  and  refusem  to  make  just  and 
"scriptural  satisfaAion  for  his  offence;  the  further  did,  and 
"  hereby  do,  in  the  same  venerable  name,  suspend  and  exclude  the 
"  said  A.  B.  from  the  privileges  of  the  Christiana-Church;  with  cer- 
"  tification,  that  if  he  shall  not  return  unto  his  uutv,  acknow- 
ledging the  found  proved  against  him,  with  his' contumaci- 
"  ous  behaviour,  and  confessing  his  humiliation  and  penitence 
"  therefor,  to  the  glory  of  God  ;  and  apply  to  the  aeainstj 
"  for  giving  satisfaction  with  respect  to  the  whole  of  this  his.  sinful 
"course  and  conduct,  the  will  then  consider  on  proceeding 
M  against  him  by  some  higher  censure,  as  they  shall  see  cause.," 


No.  XVII. 

Form  of  a  Sentence  of.  Excommunication. 

WHEREAS§  heinous  sin  and  scandal  proved,  at  the  meet- 
ing of  the  Associate-Reformed  ',  of  on  the  day  of  against 
Mr.  A.  B.  and  whereas  the  Lord.  Jesus  hath  especially  given 
it  in  charge  to  the  Judicatories  of  his  house,  not  to  suffer  sin  upon  a 
brother,  but,  in  the  fear  of  God,  to  endeavour  to  reclaim^  him  by 
authoritatively  admonishing,  rebuking,  and  otherwise  censuring 
him:  all  which  hath  accordingly  been  done— and  where  \  s  he  re- 
mained  obstinate  and   contumacious,    without  any   evidence   oj 

*  Suspend  or  depose*  ?«  the  case  may  require. 

t  Holy  ministry,  or  eldership,  or  deaconship,  according  to  his  station. 

t  Here  insert  the  time,  &c.  of  satisfaction. 

S  Matter  of        or  several  matters  of        as  the  casf  maybe- 


^3q  appendix  1. 

iign  of  repentance,  or  sorrow  for  his  said  scandal  and  offence, 
notwithstanding  ail  the  reclaiming  means  which  have  hitherto  beert 
used  with  him:  Therefore  the  did,  and  hereby  do,  in  the 
name,  and  by  the  authority  of  the  Lord  Jesus  Christ,  the  only 
king  and  head  of  the  church,  and  according  to  the  powers  committed 
by  him  to  them,  as  a  court  constituted  in  his  name,  actually  excom- 
municate the  said  A.  B.  casting  him  out  of  the  communion  of  the 
church  of  Christ,  declaring  him  to  be  of  those  whom  the  Lord 
Christ  commandeth  to  be  holden  by  all  and  every  one  of  the  faith* 
ful,  as  heathen  meivand  publicans;  and  delivering  him  unto  Satan 
for  the  destruction  of  the  flesh,  that  the  spirit  may  be  saved  in  the  day 
of  the  Lord  Jesus. 


Done  in         this         day  of 


C.  D.  Moderator. 
E.  F.  Clerk. 


No.  XVIII. 

Form  of  an  Ad  of  Absolution  and  Restoration,   as  it  is  to  be  intimated  /» 
one  who  hath  been  excommunicated. 

WHEREAS  thou,  A.  B.  hast,  for  thy  sin,  been  shut  out  from  the 
communion  of  the  faithful,  and  hast  now  manifested  thy  repentance, 
•wherein  the  church  resteth  satisfied  :  the  in  the  name,  and  by  the 
authority  of  the  Lord  Jesus  Christ,  and  according  to  the  powers 
committed  by  him  to  them,  as  a  court  constituted  in  his  name,  did, 
and  hereby  do  absolve  thee  from  the  censure  of  excommunication, 
formerly  pronounced  against  thee;  and  do  restore  thee  to  the 
communion  of  the  church,  and  the  free  use  of  all  the  ordinances  of 
Christ,  that  thou  mayest  partake  of  all  his  benefit  to  thy  eternal  sal- 
vation. 


No.  XIX. 

form  of  a  Presbyter ial  Warrant  for  intimating  the  Censure  of  Exctm- 

munication. 

THE         of  having   found  just  cause  of  excommunication 

against  'A.  B.  on  account  of  and  of  aggravated  contumacy  and 
impenitence  therein,  and  having,  at  their  meeting  at  on  the 
day  of  excommunicated  him  accordingly  ;  did,  and  hereby  do 
appoint  and  direct  you,  Mr;  CD.  minister  of  the  gospel  at  to 
intimate  said  censure  to  the  congregation  at  on  day,  the 
day  of  in  the  ordinary  place  of  public  worship,  and  immediately 
after  the  conclusion  of  the  service,  and  in  the  following  worcK  : 
(Here  insert  the  aft  of  excommunication.) 


Appendix  I.  581 

No.  XX. 

Form  of  a  Presbytcrial  Warrant  for  intimatijig  the  Aospluiion  and  Re- 
storation of  a   Penitent. 

THE  of  having  found  just  and  sufficient  cause  of  absolv- 
ing A.  B.  from  the  censure  of  excommunication  under  which  he 
presently  lies,'  and  of  restoring  him  to  the  privileges  of  the  Lord'j 
house;  and  having  at  their  meeting  at  on  the  day  of  ab- 
solved and  restored  accordingly,  did,  and  hereby  do  appoint 
and  direct  you,  Mr.  C.  D.  minister  of  the  gospel  at         to  intimate 

absolution  and  restoration  tq  the  congregation  at  on 

day  of  in  the  ordinary  place  of  public  worship,  and  immediately 
after  the  conclusion  of  the  service,  and  in  the  words  following; 
(Here  insert  the  acl  of  absolution.) 


No.  XXI. 

Form  of  Marriage-Testimonials  from  Parents. 

WE,  whose  names  are.  hereunto  subscribed,  viz.  A.  B.  and  CD. 
of         do  hereby  certify,  that  our         L.  M.  who  hath  a  pur-^ 
pose  of  marriage  with1  E.  F.  of  is  a  single         that         is 

not  related  to  said  E.  F.  in  any  degree  of  consanguinity  or  affinity 
in  which  it  is  unlawful  to  contrail  marriage;  and  that  there  is  no 
freason  known  to  aj,  of  what  kind  soever,  why  they  may  not  be 
lawfully  married. 

A.  B. 
C  D. 


No.  XXII. 

Form  of  Marriage  Testimonials  from  Persons  acquainted  hvi'th  the  Par- 
ties^ but  not  near  Relations. 

WE,  whose  names  are  hereunto  subscribed,  viz.  do  hereby 
certify,  That  we  are  well  acquainted  with  A.  B.  of  who  hath  a 
purpose  of  marriage  with  C.  D.  of  that  to  the  best  of  our  know- 
ledge and  belief  is  a  single  that  is  not  related  to  said  E. 
F.  in  any  degree  of  consanguinity  or  affinity  in  which  it  is  unlawful 
to  contract  marriage;  and  that  there  is  no  reason  known  lo us,  of 
tv hat  kind  soever,  why  they  may  not  be  lawfully  married. 

At-B. 
CD. 


APPENDIX    II. 


Of  Proceedings  in  Judicatories,  and  the  Behaviour  of  Members. 

I.  A  S  the  dispatch  of  business  depends  greatly  upon  punctual  at- 
jfj^  tendance,  diligence  is  to  be  used,  that  the  Judicatory  assem-r 
ble  precisely  at  the  hour  appointed;  the  roll  is  therefore  to  be  called 
immediately  after  prayer  by  the  moderator,  and  all  absentees  to  be 
marked,  and  if  their  absence  appears  not  to  have  been  necessary, 
censured. 

2.  If  a  quorum  be  assembled  at  the  hour,  and  the  moderator  be 
absent,  the  oldest  minister  shall  take  his  place,  and  shall  moderate 
during  that  sitting. 

3.  After  calling  the  roll,  the  minutes  of  the  last  sitting  are  to  be 
read,  and,  if  need  be,  corrected. 

4.  Business  left  unfinished  at  the  last  meeting  or  sitting,  is  ordi- 
narily to  be  concluded  first. 

5.  All  papers  presented  to  the  court,  shall  be  filed  in  the  order  in 
which  they  are  read,  with  proper  indorsements,  and  minutes  there- 
of shall  be  given  to  the  moderator. 

6.  No  motion,  excepting  for  adjournment,  shall  be  admitted  for 
discussion,  unless  it  be  committed  to  writing,  and  seconded. 

7.  Members  are  to  observe  great  gravity  while  judicially  con- 
vened, and  closely  to  attend,  in  their  speeches,  to  the  subject  in  de- 
bate, avoiding  prolix  and  desultory  harrangues. 

8.  Personal  reflections  are  by  no  means  to  be  tolerated. 

9.  Without  express  permission,  members  are  not  to  engage  in 
private  conversation ;  nor  are  they  to  address  one  another,  or  any 
person  concerned,  but  through  the  moderator. 

10.  Every  speaker,  unless  disabled  by  age  or  infirmity,  is  to  rise 
and  address  himself  to  the  moderator. 

1 1.  No  speaker  is  to  be  interrupted,  except  he  be  out  of  order,  or 
to  correct  mistakes  and  misrepresentations. 

12.  Without  the  special  permission  of  the  court,  no  member  is  to 
speak  more  than  twice  on  the  same  subject,  before  the  rest  of  the 
members  have  had  an  opportunity  of  speaking.  It  any  member  per- 
sist in  the  breach  of  this,  and  of  the  foregoing  regulation,  after  hav- 
ing been  twice  admonished  by  the  moderator,  he  shall  lose  the  pri- 

of  debate  for  that  sitting. 

13.  In  cases  of  great  importance  or  difficulty,  it  may  be  highly 
proper,  before  the  members  have  made  up  their  minds,  or  have  com- 
mitted themselves  in  their  speeches,  to  employ  one  of  the  brethren  in 
prayer  for  special  light  and  direction. 

14.  Members  ought  not,  without  weighty  reasons,  to  decline  vot- 
ing, as  this  practice  might  leave  the  decision  of  very  interesting  ques- 


appendix  IT.  383 

tions  to  a  very  small  proportion  of  the  Judicatory :  Silent  members 
are  reckoned  to  acquiesce  with  the  majority. 

15.  In  cases  where  a  number  of  members  feel  themselves  per- 
plexed, and  unable  to  come  to  any  settled  conclusion,  it  may  be  pru- 
dent to  defer  a  decision,  or  to  take  the  previous  question,  whether 
they  will  vote  on  the  main  question  or  not. 

16.  When  the  members  are  equally  divided,  and'the  moderator 
feels  himself  too  much  embarrassed  to  give  a  casting  vote,  the  ques- 
tion shall  be  deferred  until  the  next  sitting ;  and  if,  on  a  second  trials 
the  equal  division,  and  the  moderator's  embarrassment  remain,  it 
shall  lie  over  for  future  consideration. 

1 7.  The  votes  shall  not  be  recorded  unless  it  be  required  by  one 
third  of  the  members  present. 

18.  As  it  may  sometimes  answer  valuable  ends  for  the  members  of 
Judicatories  to  confer  together  on  certain  subjects,  in  a  manner  which 
would  not  consist  with  the  regularity  and  authority  of  a  constituted 
court;  it  may  be  expedient  to  hold,  on  such  occasions,  extra-ju- 
dicial conferences;  when  the  members,  laying  aside  their  judicial 
character,  converse  as  private  individuals. 

19.  All  Judicatories  have  a  right  to  sit  in  private,  on  business 
which,  in  their  judgment,  ought  not  to  be  matter  of  public  specu- 
lation. 

20.  Judicatories  are  to  meet  upon  their  own  adjournment,  except 
when  assembled  occasionally  by  the  moderator,  or  an  act  of  a  higher 
court. 

a  1 .  No  business  regularly  before  an  ordinary,  shall  be  transacted 
at  an  occasional  meeting. 

.  aa.  No  member  is  to  leave  a  Judicatory  to  return  home,  or  for 
other  business,  without  its  consent. 

23.  All  Judicatories,  Sessions  excepted,  are  to  close  their  meet- 
ings, after  prayer,  with  singing  the  133d,  or  some  other  Psalm, 
and  pronouncing  the  Apostolical  Benediction. 


APPENDIX    III. 


Of  the  Solemnization  of  Marr: 


\.  A  LTHOUGH  Marriage  be  no  sacrament,  nor  peculiar  to  flic 
'XX  church  of  God,  but  common  to  mankind,  and  of  public 
interest  in  every  commonwealth;  yet,  because  such  ^s  marry  are  to 
rnarry.in  the  Lop.b,  and  have  special  need  of  instruction,  -direction, 
and  exhortation  from  the  word  of  God,  at  theif  entering  into  meh 
a  new  condition,  aria  of  his  blessing  upon  them  therein,  it  is  expe- 
dient that- marriage  be  solemnized  by  a  lawful  minister  of  the  word, 
that  he  may  accordingly  counsel  them,  and  pray  for  a  blessing  upon 
them. 

2.  No  marriage  is  to  be  solemnized  between  parties  under  age/ 
without  the  consent  ot    parents;  or,  if  these  be  dead,  of  guardians.' 
Nor  is  it  hiwiul  for  parents  or  guardians  to  compel  their  children  or 
wards. to  marry  again-t  their  free-consent ;  nor  should  they,  without 
just  cause,  withhold  their  own  consent. 

3.  And  When  the  par'ics  are  of  age,  or  even  have  been  married 
before,'  it  nevertheless  belongeth  '0  the  reverence  due  to  parents,  to 
endeavour,  if  possible,  to  obtain  their  consent. 

4.  It  is  an  excellent  iv- :;n  of  preventing  improper  or  unlawful 
marriages,  that  the  purpose  of  marriage,  previously  to  the  solemni- 
zation thereof,  be  published  three  several  sabbaths  to  the  congrega- 
tion, at  the  place  or  places  where -the  parties  usually  reside,  fiut  in 
extraordinary  cases,  arising  from  the  diversity  of  locaV  circumstances, 
minister;.,. with  the  advice  Of their  Session^,  when  necessary;  may  act 
as  they  find  for  edification.  Provided-  always,  that  when  such  cases 
occur,  the  parties  produce  testimonials  horn  parents  or  guardians, 
or,  if  these  be  dead,  or  reside  in  a  place  very  far  distant,  from  near  re- 
latives, or  other  respectable  persons  well  acquainted  with  them;  that 
they  are  both  single ;  are  not  •within  the  forbidden  degrees  if  consanguinity 
or  affinity  ;  and  that  no  reason  is  known  to  the  testifiers  ivhy  they  may  not 
9€  laivjully  married-\ 

5.  After  the  purpose  or  contract  oi  marriage  hath  been  made  known 
in  either  of  these  ways,  the  marriage  is  not  to  be  long  deferred. 
Therefore,  the  minister,  having  had  convenient  warning,  and  nothing 
been  objected  to  hinder  it,  is  to  solemnize  it  before  a  competent 
number  of  credible  witnesses,  on  any  day  of  the  year,  excepting  the 
Lord'.-,  d.iv,  and  days  of  public  humiliation. 

6.  And  because  all  relations  arc  sanctified  by  the  word  and  pfay< 
the  minister  is  to  pray  for  a  blessing  on  the  parties  to  this  effect; 

*  Concerning  the  doclrinc  of  Marriage,  see  Con.  chap.  : 
1  Appendix  1.  No.  31.  az. 


Of  Marriage,  585 

"  Acknowledging  our  sins,  whereby  we  have  made  ourselves  less 
<{  than  the  least  of  all  the  mercies  of  God,  and  provoked  him  to 
w  embitter  all  our  comforts;  earnestly,  in  the  name  of  Christ,  to 
"  intreat  the  Lord,  whose  presence  and  favour  are  the  happiness 
"  of  every  condition,  and  sweeten  every  relation,  to  be  their  por- 
"  tion,  and  to  own  and  accept  them  in  Christ,  who  are  now  to  be 
"  joined  in  the  honourable  estate  of  marriage,  the  covenant  of  their 
•*  God;  and  that,  as  he  hath  brought  them  together  by  his  provi- 
"  dence,  he  would  sanctify  them  by  his  Spirit,  giving  them  a  frame 
*'  of  heart  fit  for  their  new  estate ;  enriching  them  with  all  the  graces 
u  whereby  they  may  perform  the  duties,  enjoy  the  comforts,  undergo 
*'  the  cares,  and  resist  the  temptations,  which  accompany  that  con- 
"  dition,  as  becometh  Christians." 

7.  Prayer  being  ended,  let  the  minister  briefly  declare  unto  them, 
out  of  the  scripture, 

"  The  institution,  use,  and  ends  of  marriage,  with  the  conjugal 
"  duties  which,  in  all  faithfulness,  they  are  to  perform  each  to  other; 
"  exhorting  them  to  study  the  holy  word  of  God,  that  they  may 
*'  learn  to  live  by  faith ;  and  to  be  content  in  the  midst  of  all  marri- 
*'  age  cares  and  troubles,  sanctifying  God's  name,  in  a  thankful, 
"  sober,  and  holy  use  of  all  conjugal  comforts;  praying  much  with 
"  and  for  one  another ;  watching  over,  and  provoking  each  other  to 
*'  love  and  good  works ;  and  to  live  together  as  heirs  of  the  grace  of 
"  life." 

8.  After  solemnly  charging  the  parties  before  the  great  God,  who 
searcheth  all  hearts,  and  to  whom  they  must  give  a  strict  account  at 
the  last  day,  that  if  either  of  them  know  any  cause,  by  pre-contract 
or  otherwise,  why  they  may  not  lawfully  proceed  to  marriage,  that 
they  now  discover  it ;  and  no  impediment  being  acknowledged,  the 
minister  shall  direct  them  to  join  their  right  hands,  and  shall  address 
himself  first  to  the  bridegroom,  and  then  to  the  bride,  as  follows: 

To  the  Bridegroom. 
YOU  take  this  woman,  whom  you  have  by  the  hand,  to  be  your  law- 
ful and  married  wife,  and  do  promise  and  covenant,  in  the  presence  of 
God  and  of  these  witnesses,  to  be  a  loving  and  faithful  husband  unto 
her,  till  God  shall  separate  you  by  death.     Answer,  I  do. 

1  To  the  Bride. 

YOU  take  this  man,  whom  you  have  by  the  hand,  to  be  your  lawful 
and  married  husband,  and  do  promise  and  covenant^  in  the  presence  of 
God  and  of  these  witnesses,  to  be  a  loving,  faithful,  and  obedient  wife 
to  him,  till  God  shall  separate  you  by  death.     Answer,  Ida. 

9.  Then,  without  any  further  ceremony,  the  minister  shall  pro- 
nounce them  to  be  husband  and  wife,  according  to  God's  ordinance, 
and  conclude  with  prayer  to  this  effect : 

"  That  the  Lord  would  be  pleased  to  accompany  his  own  ordi- 
"  nance  with  his  blessing ;  beseeching  hirn  to  enrich  the  persons  now 
"  married,  as  with  other  pledges  of  his  love,  so  particularly  with  the 
"  fruits  and  comforts  of  marriage,  to  the  praise  of  his  abundant  m«> 
"  cy,  in  and  through  Christ  Jesus." 

4E    ' 


APPENDIX  IV. 


Concerning  Burial  of  the  Dead. 

WHEN  anv  person  departeth  this  life,  let  the  dead  body,  upon 
the  day  of  burial,  be  decently  attended  from  the  house  to  the 
place  appointed  for  public  burial,  and  there  immediately  interred, 
without  any  ceremony. 

And  because  the  customs  of  kneeling  down,  and  praying  by,  or 
towards  the  dead  corpse,  and  other  such  usages,  in  the  place  where 
it  lies  before  it  be  carried  to  burial,  are  superstitious ;  and  for  that, 
praying,  reading,  and  singing  both  in  going  to,  and  at  the  grave, 
have  been  grossly  abused,  are  no  way  beneficial  to  the  dead,  and 
have  proved  many  ways  hurtful  to  the  living ;  therefore  let  no  such 
things  be  observed. 

Howbeit,  it  is  very  convenient,  that  the  Christian  friends  who 
accompany  the  dead  body  to  the  place  appointed  for  public  burial, 
do  apply  themselves  to  meditations  and  conferences  suitable  to  the 
occasion  ;  and  that  the  minister,  as  upon  other  occasions,  so,  at  tin, 
time,  if  he  be  present,  mav  put  them  in  remembrance  of  their  duty. 

That  this  shall  not  extend  to  deny  any  civil  respetts  or  deferen- 
ces at  the  burial,  suitable  to  the  rank  and  condition  of  the  party  de- 
Ceased,  while  he  was  living. 


THE 

S    U     M 


OF 


SAVING  KNOWLEDGE 


OR 


A  BRIEF  SUM 

OF 

CHRISTIAN  DOCTRINE, 

CONTAINED    IN    THE 

HOLY*  SCRIPTURES, 

And  held  forth  in  the  foregoing 

CONFESSION  OF  FAITH  AND  CATECHISMS; 

TOGETHER  WITH  THE 

PRACTICAL  USE  THEREOF, 


John  vi.  37.   All  that  the  Father  hath  given  me,  mall  come  unto  mej 
and  him  that  cometh  unto  me,  I  will  in  no  wife  caft  out. 


NEW- YORK: 

Printed  by  T.  &  J.  SWORDS,  No.  99  Pead-ftreet. 

1799. 


ADVER  TISEMENT. 

THE  Sum  of  Saving  Knowledge,  and  the  Praflical  Use  of  Saving 
Knowledge,  are  subjoined  by  order  of  Synod,  not  as  a  part  of 
the  public  standards  of  the  church,  but  as  a  comprehensive  summary 
of  divine  truth  which  God  hath  blessed,  which  is  savoury  to 
his  people;  and  which  numbers  of  them  wish  to  have  bound  up  in 
the  same  volume  with  the  Confession  and  Catechisms  it  is  designed 
to  epitomize.  At  the  same  time  the  Synod  judged  it  necessary  to 
model  some  expressions  in  such  a  manner  as  to  avoid  the  improper 
distinction  between  the  covenant  of  redemption,  and  the  covenant  of 
grace,  which,  in  reality,  are  not  two,  but  one  and  the  same  blessed 
covenant,  viewed  under  different  aspects;  and  to  conform  the  phra- 
seology to  the  doctrine  of  the  Confession  and  Catechisms.*  One  or 
two  explanatory  notes  have  also  been  added. 


Con.  chap.  vit.    Larg.  Cat.  Q^  31.     Short.  Cat.  Q^  20. 


THE 

SUM  OF  SAVING  KNOWLEDGE,  &c. 


The  Sum  of  Saving  Knowledge  maybe  taken  up  in  these  four  heads:  I. 
The  vcoful  condition  tvherein  all  men  are  by  nature,  through  breaking  of 
the  covenant  of  tuorks.  2.  The  remedy  provided  for  the  eleft  in  Jesus 
Christ  by  the  covenant  of  grace.  3 .  The  means  appointed  to  make 
them  partakers  of  this  covenant.  4.  The  blessings  -which  are  effectu- 
ally conveyed  unto  the  elecl  by  these  means.  Which  jour  heads  are  set 
doivn  each  of  them  in  some  feiv  propositions. 

HEAD    I. 

Our  woful  Condition  by  Nature,  through  breaking  the  Covenant 
of  Works.     Hos.  xiii.  9.  O  Israel,  thou  hast  destroyed  thyself. 

I.  'TpHE  Almighty  and  eternal  God,  the  Father,  the  Son,  and 
JL  the  Holy  Ghost,  three  distinct  persons  in  the  one,  and  the 
same  undivided  Godhead,  equally  infinite  in  all  perfections,  did,  be- 
fore time,  most  wisely  decree,  for  his  own  glory,  whatsoever  cometh 
to  pass  in  time;  and  doth  most  holily  and  infallibly  execute  all  his 
decrees,  without  being  partaker  of  the  sin  of  any  creature. 

II.  This  God,  in  six  days,  made  all  things  of  nothing,  very  good 
in  their  own  kind:  In  special,  he  made  all  the  angels  holy;  and  he 
made  our  first  parents,  Adam  and  Eve,  the  root  of  mankind,  both 
upright  and  able  to  keep  the  law  written  in  their  heart.  Which  law 
they  were  naturally  bound  to  obey  under  pain  of  death;  but  God 
was  not  bound  to  reward  their  service,  till  he  entered  into  a  cove- 
nant or  contract  with  them,  and  their  posterity  in  them,  to  give  them 
eternal  life,  upon  condition  of  perfect  personal  obedience;  withal, 
threatening  death  in  case  they  should  fail.  This  is  the  covenant  of 
works. 

III.  Both  angels  and  men  were  subject  to  the  change  of  their  own 
free-will,  as  experience  proved  (God  having  reserved  to  himself  the 
incommunicable  property  of  being  naturally  unchangeable):  for  many 
angels  of  their  own  accord  fell  by  sin  from  their  first  estate,  and  be- 
came devils.  Our  first  parents,  being  enticed  by  Satan,  one  of  these 
devils,  speaking  in  a  serpent,  did  break  the  covenant  of  works,  in 
eating  the  forbidden  fruit ;  whereby  they,  and  their  posterity,  being 
in  their  loins,  as  branches  in  the  root,  and  comprehended  in  the  same 
covenant  with  them,  became  not  only  liable  to  eternal  death,  but 
also  lost  all  ability  to  please  God  ;  yea,  did  become  by  nature  ene- 
mies to  God,  and  to  all  spiritual  good,  and  inclined  only  to  evil 
continually.  This  is  our  original  sin,  the  bitter  root  of  all  our  actur.l 
transgressions,  in  thought,  word,  and  deed. 


59°  The  Sum  of  Saving  Knowledge* 


HEAD  II. 

The  Remedy  provided  in  Jesus  Christ  for  the  Eleft  by  the  Covenant  of 
Grace.  Hos.  xiii.  9.  O  Israel,  thou  hast  destroyed  thyself;  but  in 
me  is  thine  help. 

I.  A  LBE1T  man,  having  brought  himself  into  this  woful  condi- 
XX  uo,h  ue  "either  able  to  help  himself,  nor  willing  to  be 
helped  by  God  out  of  it,  but  rather  inclined  to  lie  still,  insensible 
of  it,  till  he  perish;  yet  God,  for  the  glory  of  his  rich  grace,  hath 
revealed  in  his  word  a  way  to  save  sinners,  viz.  by  faith  in  Jesus, 
Christ,  the  eternal  Son  of  God,  by  virtue  of,  and  according  to 
the  tenor  of  the  covenant  of  grace,  made  and  agreed  upon  between 
God  the  Father,  and  God  the  Son,  in  the  council  of  the  Trinitv, 
before  the  world  began. 

II.  The  sum  of  the  covenant  of  grace  is  this:  God  having  freely 
chosen  unto  life  a  certain  number  of  lost  mankind,  for  the  glory  of 
his  rich  grace,  did  give  them,  before  the  world  began,  unto  God  the 
Son,  appointed  Redeemer,  that,  upon  condition  he  would  humble  him- 
self so  Jar  as  to  assume  the  human  nature,  of  a  soul  and  a  body,  unto 
personal  union  with  his  divine  nature,  and  submit  himself  to  the  law, 
as  surety  for  them,  and  satisfy  justice  for  them,  by  giving  obedience 
in  their  name,  even  unto  the  suffering  of  the  cursed  death  of  the 
cross,  he  should  ransom  and  redeem  them  all  from  sin  and  death, 
and  purchase  unto  them  righteousness  and  eternal  life,  with  all  saving 
graces  leading  thereunto,  to  be  effectually,  by  means  of  his  own  ap- 
pointment, applied  in  due  time  to  every  one  of  them.  This  con- 
dition, the  Son  of  God  (who  is  Jesus  Christ  our  Lord),  did  ac- 
cept before  the  world  began;  and  in  the  fulness  of  time  came  into 
the  world,  was  born  of  the  virgin  Mary,  subjected  himself  to  the 
law,  and  completely  paid  the  ransom  on  the  cross.  But  by  virtue  of 
the  foresaid  bargain,  made  before  the  world  began,  he  is,  in  all  ages, 
since  the  fall  of  Adam,  still  upon  the  work  of  applying  actually  the 
purchased  benefits  unto  the  elect.  And  that  he  doth  by  the  power 
of  his  Holy  Spirit,  who  worketh  faith  in  them,  whereby  they  are 
united  to  Christ,  and  have  a  right  and  interest  in  himself,  and  in  all 
his  blessings. 

III.  For  the  accomplishment  of  this  covenant  of  grace,  and  mak- 
ing the  eleel  partakers  of  the  benefits  thereof,  Christ  Jesus  was 
clad  with  threefold  office  of  Prophet,  Priest,  and  King:  made  a 
Prophet,  to  reveal  all  saving  knowledge  to  his  people,  and  to  per- 
suade them  to  believe  and  obey  the  same  ;  made  a  Priest,  to  offer  up 
himself  a  sacrifice  once  for  them  all,  and  to  intercede  continually  with 
the  Father,  for  making  their  persons  and  .'.able  to  him; 
and  made  a  King,  to  subdue  them  to  himself,  to  feed  and  rule  them 
by  his  own  appointed  ordinances,  and  to  defend  liitm  from  their 
enemies. 


The  Sum  of  Saving  Knowledge,  rgj 

HEAD  III. 

The  outward  Means  appointed  to  make  the  Eleft  Partakers  of 
this  Covenant,  and  all  the  rest  that  are  called  to  be  inexcusable.  Mat. 
xxii.  14.    Many  are  called. 

I.  r  I  ^HE  outward  means  and  ordinances  for  making  men  parta- 
JL  kers  of  the  covenant  of  grace,  are  so  wisely  dispensed,  as  the 
elect  shall  be  infallibly  converted  and  saved  by  them  ;  and  the  repro- 
bate, among  whom  they  are,  not  be  justly  stumbled.  The  means 
are  especially  these  four:  1.  The  word  of  God.  2.  The  Sacra- 
ments. 3.  Church-government.  4.  Prayer.  In  the  word  of  God,; 
preached  by  sent  messengers,  the  Lord  makes  a  gracious  offer  of 
Jesus  Christ  and  his  salvation,  to  all  sinners j  and  whosoever 
do  confess  their  sin,  accept  of  Christ  offered,  and  submit  them- 
selves to  his  ordinances,  he  will  have  both  them  and  their  children 
received  into  the  honour  and  privileges  of  the  covenant  of  grace  By 
the  sacraments,  God  will  have  the  covenant  sealed,  for  confirming  the 
interest  of  believers  therein.  By  Church-government,  he  will  have 
them  hedged  in,  and  helped  forward  in  the  ways  of  holiness.  And 
by  prayer,  he  will  have  his  own  glorious  grace,  promised  in  the  co- 
venant, to  be  daily  drawn  forth,  acknowledged,  and  employed.  All 
which  means  are  followed  either  really,  or  in  profession  only,  ac- 
cording to  the  quality  of  the  persons,  as  they  are  true  or  counterfeit 
believers. 

II.  The  covenant  of  grace,  set  down  in  the  Old  Testament  be- 
fore Christ  came,  and  in  the  New  since  he  came,  is  one  and  the 
same  in  substance,  albeit  different  in  outward  administration-  For 
the  covenant  in  the  Old  Testament,  being  sealed  with  the  sacra- 
ments of  circumcision  and  the  paschal  Lamb,  did  set  forth  Christ's 
death  to  come,  and  the  benefits  purchased  thereby,  under  the 'sha- 
dow of  bloody  sacrifices,  and  sundry  ceremonies:  but  since  Christ 
came,  the  covenant  being  sealed  by  the  sacraments' of  baptism  and 
the  Lord  s  supper,  doth  clearly  hold  forth  Christ  already  crucified 
before  our  eyes,  victorious  over  death  and  the  grave,  and  'gloriously 
ruling  heaven  and  earth,  for  the  good  of  his  own  people 


rlHAD  IV. 

the  Blessings  which  are  efeclually  conveyed  by  these  Means  to  the 
Lords  hletf,  or  chosen  ones.  Mat.  xxii.  14.  Many  are  called,  but 
few  are  chosen.  }  ' 

1  ~R\theS-e  outward  ordinances,  as  our  Lord  makes  the  repro- 
nnf*  T. «!ne£ClASab!e'  so'  in  the  Power  of  his  SP^it,  he  applies' 
covenant  of  grace,  and  maketh  a  change  in  their  persons.     In  parti- 


592  The  Practical  Use  of  Saving  Knowledge. 

cular,  i.  He  doth  convert  or  regenerate  them,  by  giving  spiritual 
life  to  them,  in  opening  their  understandings,  renewing  their  wills, 
affections,  and  faculties,  for  giving  spiritual  obedience  to  his  com- 
mands. 2.  He  gives  them  saving  faith,  by  making  them,  in  the  sense 
of  deserved  condemnation,  to  give  their  consult  heartily  to  the  cove- 
nant of  grace,  and  to  embrace  Jtsus  Christ,  unfeignedly.  3.  He 
gives  them  repentance,  by  making  them,  with  godly  sorrow,  in  the 
hatred  of  sin,  and  love  of  righteousness,  turn  from  all  iniquity  to 
the  service  of  God.  And,  4.  He  sanctifies  them,  by  making  them 
go  on  and  persevere  in  faith,  and  spiritual  obedience  to  the  law  of 
God,  manifested  by  rriutfutness  in  all  duties,  and  doing  good  works  as 
God  offereth  occasion. 

II.  Together  with  this  inward  change  of  their  persons,  God 
changes  also  their  state :  For  so  soon  as  they  are  brought  by  faith  into 
the  covenant  of  grace,  1.  He  justifies  them,  by  imputing  unto  them 
that  perfect  obedience  which  Christ  gave  to  the  law,  and  the  satis- 
faction also  which,  upon  the  cro^^,  Christ  gave  unto  justice  in  their 
name.  2.  He  reconciles  them,  and  makes  them  friends  to  God, 
who  were  beforeenemies  to  God.  3.  He  adopts  them,  that  they  shall 
be  no  more  children  of  Satan,  but  children  of  God,  enriched  with 
all  the  spiritual  privileges  of  his  sons.  And,  last  of  all,  after  their 
warfare  in  this  life  is  ended,  he  perfects  the  holiness  and  blessedness, 
first  of  their  souls  at  their  death,  and  then  both  of  their  souls  and  then- 
bodies,  being  joyfully  joined  together  again  in  the  resurrection,  at 
the  dav  of  his  glorious  coming  to  judgment,  when  all  the  wicked  shall 
be  sent  away  to  hell,  with  Satan  whom  they  have  served :  but 
Christ's  own  chosen  and  redeemed  ones,  true  believers,  students 
of  holiness,  shall  remain  with  himself  forever,  in  the  srate  of  glorifi- 
cation. 


Tie  PRACTICAL  USE  <f  SAUJNG  KNOIULEDGE,  contained 
in  ScriAtwe,  and  held fouh  briefly  in  the  Confession  of  faith  and  Ca- 
techisms. 

THE  chief  general  use  of  Christian  doctrine  is,  to  convince  a 
man  of  sin,  and  of  righteousness,  and  of  judgment,  John  wi. 
H.  partly  by  the  law  or  covenant  of  works,  that  he  may  be  humbled 
and  become  penitent;  and  partly  by  the  gospel,  that  he  may  become 
an  unfeigned  believer  in  Jtsvs  Christ,  and  be  strengthened  in 
his  faith  upon  solid  grounds  and  warrants,  and  give  evidence  of  the 
truth  of  his  faith  by  good  fruits,  and  so  be  saved. 

The  sum  of  the  covenant  of  works,  or  of  the  law,  is  this:  "If 
*'  thou  do  all  that  is  commanded,  and  not  fail  in  any  point,  thou  shalt 
«'  be  saved :  but  it  thou  fail,  thou  shalt  die."  Rom.  x.  5.  Gal.  iii. 
10,    12. 

The  sum  of  the  gospel,  is  this:  "  If  thou  flee  from  deserved 
"  wrath  to  the  true  Redeemer  Jtsus  Chrui,  (who  is  able  to  save 


Jlie  PraHical  Use  of  Saving  Knowledge.  593 

**  to  the  uttermost  all  that  come  to  God  through  him),  thou  shalt 
"  not  perish,  but  have  eternal  life."  Rom.  x.  8,  9,  11. 

For  convincing  a  man  of  sin,  of  righteousness,  and  of  judgment 
by  the  law,  or  covenant  of  works,  let  these  scriptures  among  many 
more  be  made  use  of. 

I..  For  convincing  a  man  of  sin  by  the  law,  consider  Jer.xvii.  9,  10. 

The  heart  is  deceitful  above  all  things,  and  desperately  wicked)  who 
can  know  it?  I  the  Lord  search  the  heart,  I  try  the  reins  even  to  give 
every  mail  according  to  his  ways,  and  according  to  the  fruit  of  his  doi/igs. 

Here  the  Lord  teacheth  these  two  things  : 

1.  That  the  fountain  of  all  our  miscarriage,  and  aclual  sinning 
against  Goo',  is  in  the  heart,  which  comprehended!  the  mind,  will, 
affections,  and  all  the  powers  of  the  soul,  as  they  are  corrupted  and 
defiled  with  original  sin;  the  mind  being  not  only  ignorant  and  un- 
capable  of  saving  truth,  but  also  full  of  error  and  enmity  against  God, 
and  the  will  and  affections  being  obstinately  disobedient  unto  all 
God's  directions,  and  bent  toward  that  only  which  is  evil:  "The 
"  heart  (saith  he)  is  deceitful  above  all  things,  and  desperately  wicked;" 
yea,  and  unsearchably  wicked,  so  that  no  man  can  know  it;  and  Gen. 
vi.  5.  "  Every  imagination  of  the  thoughts  of  man's  heart  is  only  evil 
u  continually,"  saith  the  Lord,  whose  testimony  we  must  trust  in 

and  all  other  matters;  and  experience  may  also  teach  us,  that,  till 
God  makes  us  deny  ourselves,  we  never  look  to  God  in  any  thing, 
but  fleshly  self-interest  alone  doth  rule  us,  and  move  all  the  wheels  of 
our  acYions.  • 

2.  That  the  Lord  bringeth  our  original  sin,  or  wicked  inclina- 
tion, with  all  the  adtual  fruits  thereof,  unto  reckoning  before  his 
judgment-seat ;  "  For  he  searcheth  the  heart,  andtrieth  the  reinsj  to 
«  give  every  man  according  to  his  ways,  and  according  to  the  fruit 
"  of  his  doings." 

Hence  let  every  man  reason  thus: 

**  What  God  and  my  guilty  conscience  bearefh  witness  of,  I  am 
u  convinced  that  it  is  true. 

"  But  God  and  my  guilty  conscience  beareth  witness,  that  my 
*'  heart  is  deceitful  above  all  tilings,  and  desperately  wicked;  and 
"  that  all  the  imaginations  of  my  heart,  by  nature,  are  only  evil  con- 
"  tinualiy. 

"  Therefore  I  am  convinced  that  this  is  true." 

Thus  a  man  may  be  convinced  of  sin  by  the  law. 

II.  For  convincing  a  man  of  righteousness  by  the  law,  consider; 
Gal.  iii.  10. 

As  many  as  are  of  the  works  of  the  law,  are  under  the  curse :  for  it  is 
written,  Cursed  is  every  one  that  continueth  not  in  all  things  which  art 
written  in  the  hook  of  the  taw  to  do  them. 

Here  the  Apostle  teacheth  us  three  things: 

1.  That,  by  reason  of  our  natural  sinfulness,  the  impossibility  of 
any  man's  being  jusiiiied  by  the  works  of  the  law  i:  so  certain,  tha* 

4F 


&4  The  Practical  Use  of  Saving  Knowledge. 

whosoever  do  seek  justification  by  the  works  of  the  law,  are  liable  to 
the  curse  of  God  tor  breaking  of  the  law  ;  "  For  as  many  as  are  of 
*'  the  works  of  the  law,  arc  under  the  curse,"  saith  he. 

2.  That,  unto  the  perfect  fulfilling  of  the  law,  the  keeping  of  one 
or  two  of  the  precepts,  or  doing  of  some,  or  of  all  duties  (it  it  were 
possible),  for  a  time,  is  not  sufficient;  for  the  law  requireth,  that  "  ?. 
"  man  continue  in  all  things  which  are  written  in  the  book  of  the 
"  law  to  do  them." 

3.  That,  because  no  man  can  come  up  to  this  perfection,  every 
man  bv  nature  is  under  the  curse;  for  the  law  saith,  "  Cursed  is  every 
"  one  that  continueth  not  in  all  things  which  are  written  in  the  book 
"  of  the  law  to  do  them." 

Now,  to  be  under  the  curse,  comprehendeth  all  the  displeasure  of 
God,  with  the  danger  of  the  breaking  forth  more  and  more  of  his 
■wrath  upon  soul  and  body,  both  in  this  life,  and  after  death  perpe- 
tually, if  grace  do  not  prevent  the  full  execution  thereof. 

Hence  let  every  man  reason  thus? 

"  Whosoever,  according  to  the  covenant  of  works,  is  liable  to  the 
*'  curse  of  God,  for  breaking  the  law,  times  and  ways  out  of  num- 
"  ber,  cannot  be  justified,  or  find  righteousness  by  works  of  the  law, 

"  But  I  (may  every  man  say),  according  to  the  covenant  of  works, 
"  am  liable  to  the  curse  of  God,  for  breaking  the  law,  times  and 
*'  ways  out  of  number. 

"  Therefore  I  cannot  be  justiried,  or  have  righteousness  by  the 
li  works  of  the  law." 

Thus  may  a  man  be  convinced  of  righteousness,  that  it  is  not  to 
be  had  by  his  own  works,  or  by  the  law. 

I'll.  For  convincing  a  man  of  judgment  by  the  law,  considers 
Thess.  i.  7. 

The  Lord  Jesus  shall  be  revealed  from  heave*  with  his  mighty  angel; 
v.  8.  In  flaming  fire,  taking  vengeance  on  them  that  knovo  not  God,  and 
that  obey  not  the  gos/iel  of  our  Lord  Jesus  Christ;  v.  9.  lirho  shall  he  pu- 
nished ivith  everlasting  destruction  from  the  presence  of  the  Lord,  and  from 
the  glory  of  his  pniver ;  v.  10.  When  he  shall  come  to  be  glorified  in  his 
saints,  and  to  be  admired  in  all  them  that  believe. 

Wherein  we  are  taught,  that  our  Lord  Jesus,  who  now  offer, 
to  be  Mediator  for  them  who  believe  in  him,  shall,  at  the  last  day, 
come  armed  with  flaming  fire,  to  judge,  condemn,  and  destroy  all 
them  who  have  not  believed  God,  have  not  received  the  otfer  of 
grace  made  in  the  gospel,  nor  obeyed  tin  doctrine  thereof;  but  re- 
main in  their  natural  state,  under  the  law  or  covenant  of  works. 

Hence  let  every  man  reason  thus : 

"  What  the  righteous  fudge  hath  forewarned  mc  shall  be  done  at 
«'  the  last  day,  I  am  sore  is  jost  judgment. 

11  But  the  righteous  Judge  hath  forewarned  me,  that  if  I  do  not  be- 
"  lievc  God  in  time,  and  ohty  not  the  doctrine  of  the  gospel,  1  shall 
**  be  secluded  from  his  presence  and  his  glory,  at  the  la.it  day,  and 
*'  be  tormented  in  soul  and  body  for  ever. 


I 


The  Praftical  Use  of  Saving  Knowledge.  tftg 

"  Therefore  I  am  convinced  that  this  is  a  just  judgment. 

"  And  I  have  reason  to  thank  God  heartily,  who  hath  forewarned 
"  me  to  flee  from  the  wrath  which  is  to  come." 

Thus  every  man  may  be,  by  the  law  or  covenant  of  works,  con- 
vinced of  judgment,  if  he  shall  continue  under  the  covenant  of  works, 
or  shall  not  obey  the  gospel  of  our  Lord  Jesus. 

IV.  For  convincing  a  man  of  sin,  righteousness,  and  judgment,  by 
the  gospel. 

As  for  convincing  a  man  of  sin,  and  righteousness,  and  judgment 
by  the  gospel,  he  must  understand  three  things:  1.  That  not  believing 
in  Jesus  Christ,  or  refusing  of  the  covenant  of  grace  offered  in 
him,  is  a  greater  and  more  dangerous  sin  than  all  other  sins  against  the 
law:  because  the  hearers  of  the  gospel  not  believing  in  Christ,  do 
reject  God's  mercy  in  Christ,  the  only  way  of  freedom  from  sin 
and  wrath,  and  will  not  yield  to  be  reconciled  to  God.  2.  Next, 
He  must  understand,  that  perfect  remission  of  sin,  and  true  righte- 
ousness, is  to  be  had  only  by  faith  in  Jesus,;  because  God  requireth 
•no  other  conditions  but  faith;  and  testifies  from  heaven,  that  he  is 
well  pleased  to  justify  sinners  upon  this  condition.  3.  He  must  un- 
derstand, that  upon  righteousness  received  by  faith,  judgment  shall 
follow,  on  the  one  hand,  to  the  destroying  of  the  works  of  the  devil 
in  the  believer,  and  to  the  perfecting  ot  the  work  of  sancrification  in 
him,  with  power :  and  that,  upon  refusing  to  take  righteousness  by 
faith  in  Jesus  Christ,  judgment  shall  follow,  on  the  other  hand, 
to  the  condemnation  of  the  unbeliever,  and  destroying  of  him  with 
•Satan  and  his  servants  for  ever. 

For  this  end,  let  these  passages  of  scripture,  among  many  others, 
serve  to  make  the  greatness  of  the  sin  ot  not  believing  in  Chris  t  ap- 
pear; or,  to  make  the  greatness  of  the  sin  of  refusing  of  the  covenant 
of  grace  offered  to  us,  in  the  offering  of  Chr.ist  unto  us,  let  the  fair 
offer  of  grace  be  looked  upon  as  it  is  made,  Isa.  lv.  3.  Incline  your  ear, 
and  come  unto  me  (saith  the  Lord)  :  //rar,  and  your  soul  shall  live,  and 
I  will  make  an  everlasting  covenant  with  you,  even  the  sure  mercies  of 
David.  That  is,  If  ye  believe  me,  and  be  reconciled  to  me,  I  will, 
by  covenant,  give  unto  you  Christ,  and  all  saving  graces  in  him  : 
repeated  A£b  xiii.  34. 

Again,  consider,  that  this  general  offer,  in  substance,  is  equivalent  to 
a  special  offer  made  to  every  one  in  particular;  as  appeareth  by  the 
Apostle's  making  use  of  it,  Acts  xvi.  31.  Believe  on  the  Lord  Jesus 
Christ,  and  thou  shalt  be  saved,  and  thy  house.  The  reason  of  which 
offer  is  given,  John  iii.  16.  For  God  so  loved  the  world,  that  lie  gave 
his  only  begotten  Sou,  that  whosoever  believeth  him  should  not  perish,  but 
have  everlasting  life.  Seeing  then  this  great  salvation  is  offered  in  the 
Lord  Jesus,  whosoever  believeth  not  in  him,  but  looks  for  happi- 
ness some  other  way,  what  doth  he  else  but  observe  lying  vanities,  and 
forsake  his  own  mercy,  which  he  might  have  had  in  Christ  ?  Tonah  ii. 
8,  9.  What  doth  he  else  but  blaspheme  God  in  his  heart  ?  as  it  is  said, 
I  John  v.  10,  11.  He  that  believeth  not  God,  hath  made  him  a  liar,  be- 


396  The  Prafttcal  Use  of  Saving  Knowledge. 

cause  he  believeth  not  ihe  record  that  God  gave  of  his  Son.  And  this  is  the 
record,  that  God  hath  given  to  us  eternal  life :  and  this  life  is  in  his  Son. 
And  that  ho  sin  against  the  law  is  like  unto  this  sin,  Christ  testifies) 
John  xv.  22.  if  I  had  not  came,  and  s/ioken  unto  them,  they  had  not  had 
sin  :  hut  now  they  have  no  cloak  for  their  sin.  This  may  convince  a  man 
or  the  greatness  of  this  sin  or  not  believing  in  Christ. 

FjM  convincing  a  man  of  righteousness  to  be  had  only  by  faith  in 
Jesus  Chiust,  consider  how,  Rom.  x.  3,  4. 

It  is  said,  that  the  Jews,  being  ignorant  of  God's  righteousness,  and 
going  about  to  establish  their  own  righteousness,  have  not  submitted  them- 
selves unto  the  righteousness  of  God  (and  so  thev  perished).  For  Christ 
:<  the,  end  of  the  law  for  righteousness  to  every  one  that  believeth.  Aid 
Acts  xiii.  39.  By  Christ  Jesus,  ail  that  believe  are  justified  from  all 
things,  from  iv/iich  ye  con:, I  not  be  justified  by  the  law  of  Moses.  And 
I  John  i.  7.    The  blood  of  Jesus  Christ  his  Son  cleanseth  us  from  ail  sin. 

For  convincing  a  man  of  judgment,  if  a  man  embrace  this  ri 
ousness,  consider  1  John  hi.  8.  For  this  purjwse  the  Son  of  God  was 
manifested,  that  he  might  destroy  the  works  of  the  devil.  And  Heb.  i.v. 
14.  How  much  more  shall  the  blood  of  Christ,  who,  through  the  eternal 
S/iirit,  offered  himself  without  s/iot  to  God,  Jiurge  your  conscience  from 
works  to  serve  the  living  God  ? 
But  it  a  man  embrace  not  this  righteousness,  his  doom  is  pro- 
nounced, John  iii.  18,  19.  He  that  believeth  not  is  condemned  already, 
because  he  hath  not  believed  in  the  name  of  the  only  begotten  Son  of  God. 
And  this  is  the  condemnation,  that  light  is  come  into  the  world,  and  men 
loved  darkness  rather  thin  light. 

Hence  let  the  penitent,  desiring  to  believe,  reason  thus : 
"  What  doth  suffice  lo  convince  all  the  elect  in  the  world  of  the 
"  greatness  of  the  sin  of  not  believing  in  Christ,  or  refusing  to  flee 
«'  to  him  for  relief  from  sins  done  against  the  law,  and  from  wrath 
"  due  thereto;  and  what  sufficeth  to  convince  them,  that  righteous- 
"  ness  and  eternal  life  is  to  be  had  by  faith  in  Jesus  Chrtst,  or  by 
**  consenting  to  th  1  oi  grace  in  him  ;  and  what  sufficeth  to 

«■' convince  them  of  judgment  to  be  exercised  by  CHRIST,  fbrde- 
M  troying  the  works  of  tlie  devil  in  a  man,  and  sanctifying  .md  sav- 
"  ing  all  that  believe  in  him,  may  suffice  to  convince  me  a 

"  But  what  th<  Spirit  hath  saitl,  in  these  or  other  like  scriptures, 
"  sufficeth  to  convince  the  elect-world  of  the  foresaid  sin,  and  rigbte- 
"  ousness  and  judgment. 

u  Tlu  ti  lore  wfcir  the  Spirit  hath  said,  in  these  and  other  like  scrip- 
M  turcs,  serweth  to  convince  she  thereof  also." 

neuptn  lee  the  penitent  di  tiring  to  beli  •  with  him 

words,  and  say  heartily  to  the  Los  1  .  \,$eekyemyfact% 

.  answereth   unto  thee,  Lord,  will  I seek  1  I  have 

hearkentd  unto  the  offer  of  an  everlasting  covenant  of  all  saving 
mercies  to  be  had  in  CnarsT,  and  1  do  heartily  embrace  thy  "f. 
it  r.      Lord,   let  it   be  a  bargain;   Lot,/,    I    '  tlief : 

Behold,  I  give  myself  to  thee,  to  serve  thee  in  all  things  lor  ever ;  and 


The  Pracllcal  Use  of  Saving  Knowledge.  597 

I  hope  thy  right  hand  shall  save  me ;  the  Lord  will  perfect  that  which 
concerneth  me;  thy  mercv,  O  Lord,  endureth  tor  ever;  forsake 
not  the  ivoris  of  thine  own  hands. 

Thus  may  a  man  be  made  an  unfeigned  believer  in  Christ. 

For  strengthening  the  man's  faith,  who  hath  agreed  unto  the  co- 
venant of  grace. 

Because  many  true  believers  are  weak,  and  do  much  doubt  if 
ever  they  shall  be  sure  of  the  soundness  of  their  own  faith  and  ef- 
fectual calling,  or  made  certain  or  their  justification  and  salvation, 
when  they  see,  that  many,  who  protess  iaith,  are  found  to  deceive 
themselves ;  let  us  see  how  every  believer  may  be  made  strong  in  the 
faith,  and  sure  of  his  own  election  and  salvation  upon  solid  grounds, 
by  sure  warrants,  and  true  evidences  of  faith.  To  this  end,  among 
many  other  scriptcres,  take  these  following. 

1.  For  laying  solid  grounds  of  faith,  consider  2  Peter  i.  10. 

JVLercfore  the  rather,  brethren,  give  diligence  to  make  your  calling  and 
election  sure :  for  if  ye  do  these  things,  ye  shall  never  fall. 

In  which  words,  the  Apostte  teaeheth  us  these  four  things,  for 
help  and  direction  how  to  be  made  strong  In  the  faith  : 

1.  That  such  as  believe  in  Christ  Jesus,  and  are  fled  to  him  for 
relief  from  sin  and  wrath,  albeit  they  be  weak  in  the  faith,  yet  they 
are  indeed  children  of  the  same  Father  with  the  Apostles;  for  so  he 
accounteth  of  them  while  he  caileththem  Irethren. 

2.  That  albeit  we  be  not  sure,  for  the  rime,  of  our  effectual  calling 
and  election,  yet  we  may  be  made  sure  of  both,  if  we  use  diligence; 
for  this  he  presupposeth,  saying,  "  Give  diligence  to  make  yourcai- 
"  ling  and  election  sure." 

3.  That  we  must  not  be  discouraged,  when  we  see  many  seeming 
believers  prove  rotten  branches,  and  make  defection;  but  we  must 
the  rather  take  the  better  heed  to  ourselves  :  "  Wherefore  the  rather, 
"  brethren,"  saith  he,  "  give  all  diligence." 

4.  That  the  way  to  be  sure  both  of  our  effectual  calling  and  elec- 
tion, is  to  make  sure  work  of  our  faith,  by  laying  the  grounds  of  it 
solidly,  and  bringing  forth  the  fruits  of  our  faith  in  new  obedience 
constantly:  "For  if  ye  do  these  things,"  saith  he,  "  ye  shall  never 
"fall;"  understanding  by  these  things,  what  he  had  said  of  sound 
faith,  ver.  1,2,  3,  4.  and  what  he  had  said  of  the  bringing  out  of  the 
fruits  of  faith,  ver.  5,  6,  7,  8,  9. 

To  this  same  purpose,  consider  Rom.  viii.  1.  There  is  therefore  11010 
no  condemnation  to  them  which  are  in  Christ  Jesus, ivho  walk  not  after  the 
fiedi,  but  after  the  spirit,  ver.  2.  For  the  law  of  the  Spirit  of  life,  in 
Christ  jisus,  hath  made  me  free,  from  the  lam  of  sin  and  death,  ver.  3. 
For,  what  the  law  could  not  do  in  that  it  was  weak  through  the  fie  di,  God 
sending  his  own  Sen  in  the  likeness  of  sin  fid  flesh,  and  for  sin,  condemned 
sin  in  the  flesh  :  ver.  4.  That  the  righteousness  of  the  law  might  he  fulfilled 
in  us,  who  walk  not  after  the  flesh,  hut  after  the  Spirit. 

Wherein  the  Apostle  teaeheth  us  these  four  things,  for  laying  of 
the  ground  of  faith  solidlv : 


5^8  The  Praeilcal  Use  of  Saving  Knowledge. 

i.  That  every  one  is  a  true  believer,  who,  in  the  sense  of  his  sin,, 
and  fear  of  God's  wrath,  doth  flee  for  full  relief  from  both  unto  Je- 
cjs  Christ  alone,  as  the  only  Mediator,  and  all-sufhcient  Redeemer 
of  men;  and,  being  fled  to  Christ,  doth  strive  against  his  own  flesh, 
or  corrupt  inclination  of  nature,  and  studieth  to  follow  the  rule  of 
God's  Spirit,  <_et  down  in  his  word:  for  the  man,  whom  the  Apostle 
doth  here  bless,  as  a  true  believer,  isa  man  in  Christ  Jesus,  "  who 
"  doth  not  walk  alter  the  flesh,  but  alter  the  Spirit." 

2.  That  all  such  persons  as  are  fled  to  Christ,  and  do  strive 
against  sin,  howsoever  they  may  be  possibly  exercised  under  the 
sense  of  wrath,  and  fear  of  condemnation,  yet  they  are  in  no  danger; 
for  "  there  is  no  condemnation,"  saith  he,  "  to  them  that  are  in 
*'  Christ  Jesus,  who  walk  not  after  the  fleoh,  but  after  the.  Spirit." 

3.  That  albeit  the  Apostle  himself  (brought  in  here  for  example's 
cause),  and  all  other  true  believers  in  Christ,  be  by  nature  under 
the  law  of  sin  and  death,  or  under  the  covenant.of  works  (called  the 
law  of  sin  and  death,  because  it  bindeth  sin  and  death  upon  us,  till 
Chrjst  set  us  free);  yet  the  law  of  the  Spirit  of  life  in  Christ  Je- 
pus,  or  the  covenant  of  grace  (so  called,  because  it  doth  enable  and 
quicken  a  man  to  a  spiritual  life  through  Christ),  doth  set  the 
Apostle,  and  all  true  believers,  free  from  the  covenant  of  works,  or 
the  law  of  sin  and  death;  so  that  every  man  may  say  with  him, 
"  The  law  of  the  Spirit  of  life,"  or  the  covenant  of  grace,  "  hath  made 
u  me  tree  from  the  law  of  sin  and  death,"  or  covenant  of  works. 

4.  That  the  fountain  and  first  ground,  from  whence  our  freedom 
from  the  curse  of  the  law  doth  flow,  is  the  covenant  of  grace,  past  be- 
twixt God,  and  God  the  Son,  as  incarnate,  wherein  Christ  takes 
the  curse  of  the  law  upon  him  for  sin,  that  the  believer,  who  could 
not  otherwise  be  delivered  from  the  covenant  of  works,  may  be  de- 
livered from  it.  And  this  doctrine  the  Apostle  holdeth  forth  in  these 
four  branches:  (1.)  That  it  was  utterly  impossible  for  the  law,  or 
the  covenant  of  works,  to  bring  righteousness  and  life  to  a  sinner,  be- 
cause it  was  weak.  (2.)  That  this  weakness  and  inability  of  the  law, 
or  covenant  of  works,  is  not  the  fault  of  the  law,  but  the  fault  of  sin- 
ful flesh,  which  is  neither  able  to  pay  the  penalty  of  sin,  nor  to  give 
perfecr  obedience  to  the  law  (presuppose  by-gone  sins  were  forgiven); 
*'  The  law  wa~>  weak,"  saith  he,  "  through  the  flesh."  (3.)  That 
the  righteousness  and  salvation  of  sinners,  which  was  impossible  to 
be  brought  about  by  the  law,  is  brought  to  pass  by  sending  God's 
own  Son,  Jesus  Christ,  in  the  flesh,  in  whose  flesh  sin  is  con- 
demned anil  punished,  tor  making  satisfaction  in  the  behalf  of  the 
elect,  that  they  might  be  set  free.  (4.)  That,  by  his  means,  the  law 
loseth  nothing,  because  the  righteousness  of  the  law  is  best  fulfilled 
this  way;  lirsr,  by  Christ's  giving  perfect  active  obedience  in  our 
name  unto  it  in  all  things:  next,  by  his  paying  in  our  name  the  pe- 
nalty (due  to  our  sin.s)  in  his  death  :  And,  lastly,  by  his  working  of 
san&incatian  in  us,  who  are  true  believers,  who  strive  to  give  n<  w 
obedience  unto  the  law,  and  "  walk  not  alter  the  flesh,  but  after  the 
'•  Spirit." 


I 

The  Practical  Use  of  Saving  Knowledge.  595 

WARRANTS  to  BELIEVE. 

FOR  building  our  confidence  upon  this  solid  ground,  these  four 
warrants  and  special  motives  to  believe  in  Christ  may  serve. 

The  first  whereof  is  God's  hearty  invitation,  held  forth  in  Isa.  lv„ 

h  3,  3,  4.  S- 

Ho,  every  one  that  thirsteth,  come  ye  to  the  -waters,  and  he  that  hath  no 
money;  come  ye,  buy  and  eat,  yea,  cane,  buy  wine  and  milk  without 
money,  and  without  price.  Ver.  1.  Wherefore  do  you  spend  money  for 
that  which  is  not  bread  ?  and  your  labour  for  that  which  satisfieth  not  ?• 
hearken  diligently  unto  me,  and  eat  ye  that  which  is  good,  and  let  your 
soul  delight  itself  in  fatness.  Ver.  3 .  Incline  your  ear,  and  come  unto 
me :  hear,  and  your  soul  shall  live,  and  I  will  make  an  everlasting  co- 
venant withyou,  even  the  sure  mercies  of  David.  Ver.  4.  Behold,  I  have 
given  him  for  a  witness  to  the  people,  a  leader  and  commander  to  the 
Jieojile,  &c. 

Here  (after  setting  down  the  precious  ransom  of  our  redemption 
by  the  sufferings  of  Christ,  and  the  rich  blessings  purchased  to  us 
thereby,  in  the  two  former  chapters)  the  Lord,  in  this  chapter, 

1.  Maketh  open  offer  of  Christ  and  his  grace,  by  proclamation 
of  a  free  and  gracious  market  of  righteousness  and  salvation,  to  be 
had  through  Christ  to  every  soul,  without  exception,  that  truly  de- 
sires to  be  saved  from  sin  and  wrath :  "  Hor  every  one  that  thirst- 
"  eth,"  saith  he. 

2.  He  inviteth  all  sinners,  that  for  any  reason  stand  at  distance 
with  God,  to  come  and  take  from  him  riches  of  grace,  running  in 
Christ  as  a  river,  to  wash  away  sin,  andtoslocken  wrath:  "  Come, 
"  ye  to  the  waters,"  saith  he. 

3.  Lest  any  should  stand  aback,  in  the  sense  of  his  own  sinfulness 
or  unworthiness,  and  inability  to  do  any  good,  the  Lord  calleth, 
upon  such  persons  in  special,  saying,  "  He  that  hath  no  money 
'*  come." 

4.  He  craveth  no  more  of  his  merchant,  but  that  he  be  pleased 
with  the  wares  offered,  which  are  grace,  and  more  grace ;  and  that 
lie  heartily  consent  unto,  and  embrace  this  offer  of  grace,  that  so. he 
may  be  brought  under  the  bond  of  the  covenant :  "  Come,  buy  with- 
"  out  money,"  saith  he,  "  come,  eat :"  That  is,  consent  to  have,, 
and  take  unto  you  all  saving  graces ;  make  the  wares  your  own,  pos- 
sess them,  and  make  use  of  all  blessings  in  Christ  ;  whatsoever  mak- 
eth for  your  spiritual  life  and  comfort,  use  and  enjoy  it  freely,  with- 
out paying  any  thing  for  it :  "  Come,  buy  wine  and  milk  without 
'*  money,  and  without  price,"  saith  he. 

5.  Because  the  Lord  knoweth  how  much  we  are  inclined  to  seek 
righteousness  and  life  by  our  own  performances  and  satisfaction,  to 
have  righteousness  and  life  as  it  were  by  the  way  of  works ;  and  how 
loth  we  are  to  embrace  Christ  Jesus,  and  to  take  life  by  way  of  free 
grace  through  Jesus  Christ  ;  therefore  the  Lord  lovingly  callsiis- 


The  Praflical  C  \t  of  Saving  Knowled( 

off  this  our  crooked  and  unhappy  way,  with  a  gentle  and  timeous  ad- 
monition, -.   to  understand,  that  we  shall  but  lose  our  la 
in  this  our  way:  "  Wherefore  do  ye  spend  your  money  (saith  lie)  for 
"  that  which  is  not  bread  'J  and  your  labour  for  that  which  satisiieth 
"  not  r" 

6.  Tin   Lor  D promiseth  to  us  solid  satisfaction,   in  the  « 
iking  ourselves  unto  the  grace  of  Christ,  even  true  content- 
ment, and   fulness   oi  spiritual    pleasure,    saying,  "  H 

n'tly  unto  me,  and  eat  ye  that  which  is  good,  and  let  your  soul 
"  delight  itself  in  fatness." 

7.  Because  faith  cometh  by  hearing,  he  calleth  for  audience  unto 
the  explication  of  the  orler,  and  calleth  for  believing  of,  ai 

ing  unto  the  truth,  which  is  able  to  beget  the  application  o;  saving 
faith,  and  to  draw  the  soul  to  trust  in  God:  "  Incline  your  car,  and 
'*  come  unto  me,"  saith  he.  To  which  end,  the  Lord  prota 
that  in  receiving  this  offer,  the  dead  sinner  shall  be  quickened  and 
translated  into  a  covenant-state  of  perpetual  reconciliation  and  peace  : 
"  Hearken  :ind  your  soul  shall  live,  and  I  will  make  an  everla- 
covenant  with  you."  Which  covenant,  he  declareth,  shall  be  hi 
substance  the  assignation,  and  the  making  over,  of  all  the  saving 
graces  which  David  (who  is  Jesus  Christ,  Acts  xiii.  34.)  hath 
bought  for  us  in  the  covenant  of  grace:  "  I  will  make  a  covenant 
with  wou,''  saith  he,  "  even  the  sure  mercies  of  David."  By  sura 
v:ncics,  he  means  saving  graces,  such  as  are  righteousness,  peace, 
and  joy  in  the  Holy  (iiiost,  adoption,  sancVifkation,  and  glorifica- 
tion, and  whatsoc. .  ■  to  godliness  and  life  eternal. 

8.  To  confirm  and  assure  us  oi  the  real  grant  of  these  saving  mer- 
cies, and  to  persuade  us  of  the  reality  of  the  covenant-relation  be* 
twixt  God  and  the  believer  of  this  word,  the  Father  hath- made  a 
fourfold  gift  of   his  eternal  and  only  begotten  Son  : 

First,  To  be  incarnate  and  born  for  our  sake,  of  the  seed  of  Da- 
vid his  type;  for  which  cause  he  i;   called  here,  and  Acts  xiii.  34. 
in.  the  true  and  everlasting  kiqg  of  Israel.     Tbisis  the  great 
gift  1  »  man.    [ohniv    10.    And  here,  I  have  given  him  to  be 

David,  or  born  of  Dav  id,  to  the  people. 

Secondly,  He  hath  made  a  gift  of  Christ  to  be  a  witness  to  the 
people,  both  oi  thfe  sure  and  saving  m<  rcies  granted  to  the  r 
m  the  covi  grace;  and  also  of  the  Father's  willingness  and 

purpose  to  apply  them,  and  to  make  them  sure  to  such  as  embrace  the 
oiler:  "  I  hav<  given  him"  (saith  the  Loud  here)  «  to  be  a  uituess 
«  to  •        .  And  truly  he  is  a  sufficient  witness  in  thiv  ma 

in  many  respi  61   :   is/,  Becau  ic  ol  the  blessed  Trinity,  and 

.  *contraftor  for  ■  before  the  « 

was.     in  :,\  office,  as  .Mediator,  the  rriessenj  co- 

nission  to  reveal   it. 
actually  *o  reveal  it  in  P  lere  he  promised,  1 

the  vvomdn 

rings,  and  the  great  benefit  1. Id  come 

thereby  to  us,  in  the  types  and  I  looies  be- 


The  Pracllcal  Vie  of  Saving  Knowledge.  601 

fore  his  coming.  ttldy,  He  gave  more  and  more  light  about  this  co- 
venant, speaking  by  his  Spirit,  from  age  to  age,  in  the  holy  prophets. 
dthly,  He  came  himself,  in  the  fulness  of  time,  and  did  bear  witness 
of  all  things  belonging  to  this  covenant,  and  of  God's  willing  mind 
to  take  believers  into  it;  partly  by  uniting  our  nature  in  one  person 
with  the  divine  nature  5  partly  by  preaching  the  good  tidings  of  the 
covenant  with  his  own  mouth ;  partly  by  paying  the  price  of  redemp- 
tion on  the  cross;  and  partly  by  dealing  still  with  the  people,  from 
the  beginning  to  this  day,  to  draw  in,  and  to  hold  in  the  redeemed 
in  this  covenant. 

Thirdly,  God  hath  made  a  gift  of  Christ,  as  a  leader  to  the  peo- 
ple, to  bring  us  through  all  difficulties,  all  afflictions  and  temptations, 
unto  life,  by  this  covenant:  And  he  it  is,  and  no  other,  who  doth, 
indeed,  lead  his  own  unto  the  covenant;  and,  in  the  covenant,  all  the 
way  on  unto  salvation:  1.  By  the  direction  of  his  word  and  Spirit. 
fl.  By  the  example  ot  his  own  life,  in  faith  and  obedience,  even  to  the 
death  of  the  cross.  3.  By  his  powerful  working,  bearing  his  re- 
deemed ones  in  his  arms,  and  causing  them  to  lean  on  him,  while  they 
go  up  through  the  wilderness. 

Fourthly,  God  hath  made  a  gift  of  Christ  unto  his  people,  as  a 
commander :  which  office  he  faithfully  exerciseth,  by  giving  to  his 
church  and  people,  laws  and  ordinances,  pastors  and  aovernors- 
and  all  necessary  officers;  by  keeping  courts  and  assemblies  among 
them,  to  see  that  his  laws  be  obeyed  ;  subduing,  by  his  word,  Spirit! 
and  discipline,  his  people's  corruptions;  and,  by  his  wisdom  and 
power,  guarding  them  against  all  their  enemies  Whatsoever. 

Hence,  he  who  hath  closed  with  God's  covenant,  may  strengthen 
nis  taith,  by  reasoning  after  this  manner: 

"  Whosoever  doth  heartily  receive  the  offer  of  free  grace,  made 
here  to  sinners,  thirsting  for  righteousness  and  salvation  ;  unto  him, 
by  an  everlasting  covenant,  belongeth  Christ,  the  true  David, 
with  all  his  sure  and  saving  mercies. 

"But  I  (may  the  weak  believer  say)  do  heartily  receive  the  offer 
of  free  grace  made  here  to  sinners,  thirsting  for  righteousness  and 
"  salvation.  ° 

"  Therefore  unto  me,  by  an  everlasting  covenant,  belongeth 
Christ  Jesus,  with  all  his  sure  and  saving  mercies." 

The  second  warrant  and  special  motive  to  embrace  Christ,  and  be- 
lieve in  him,  is  the  earnest  request  that  God  maketh  to  us  to  be  re- 
conciled to  him  in  Christ,  held  forth  2  Cor.  v.  10,  20,  21 
God  was  zn  Christ    reconciling  the  world  unto  himself,  not  imhutinr 
their  ires/tastes  unto  them  ;  and  hath  committed  unto  us  the  word  of  recon- 
ciliation      Ver  20.  Km,  then  we  are  ambassadors  for  Christ,  as  though 
God  did  beseech  you  byus:   -we  pray  you  in  Christ's  stead,  be  ye  reconciled 
to  God      Ver.  2 1      For  he  hath  made  him  to  be  sin  for  us,  -who  knew  no 
sin-  that  we  might  be  made  the  righteousness  of  God  in  him 
M;  herein  the  Apostle  teacheth  us  these  nine  doctrines  : 
tint,    1  hat  the  eled  world,  or  world  of  redeemed  souls,  are,  by 


6o2  The  Praftic-rt/  Use  of  Saving  Knrjj'uagt. 

nature,  in  the  estate  of  enmity  against  Gor  :  Tin,  is  presupposed  in 
•the  word  reconciliation;  tor  reconciliation,  or  renewing  of  friendship, 
cannot  he,  except  betwixt  those  that  have  been  at  enmity. 

Secon^That  In  all  the  time  by-past,  since  the  fill  of  Adam,  Christ 
Jesus,  the  eternal  Son  of  God,  as  I\lediatoi\and  the  Father  in  him, 
hath  been  about  the  making  friendship  (by  his  word  and  Spirit)  be- 
twixt birnsi  it  and  the  elect  world  :  "  GoD,"s«kh  he,  "  was  in  Christ 
W  rtcont  iling  the  world  to  hin, 

Thinly  That  the  way  of  reconciliation  was  in  all  ages  one  and  the 
same  in  substance,  vix.  by  forgiving  the  sins  of  them  who  do  ac- 
knowledge their  stns  and  their  enmit\  against  God,  and  do  seek  re- 
conciliation  and  remission  of  sins  in  Christ  :  "  For  God,"  saith  he, 
**  was  in  Christ  reconciling  the  world  to  himself,"  by  way  of 
*'  not  imputing  their  trespasses  note  them." 

Fourth,  That  the  end  and  scope  or  the  go  pel,  and  whole  word  of 
God,  is  threefold:  i.  It  served]  to  make  people  sensible  of  their 
sins,  and  of  their  enmity  against  (ion,  and  ol  their  danger,  if  they 
should  stand  out,  and  not  lear  God's  displeasure.  2.  The  word  ot 
God  serveth  to  make  men  acquainted  with  the  course  which  God 
hath  prepared  for  making  friendship  with  them  through  Christ, 
•viz.  That  if  men  shall  acknowledge  the  enmity,  and  shall  be  content 
to  enter  into  friendship  with  God,  through  Christ,  then  God  will 
be  content  to  be  reconciled  with  them  freely.  3.  The  word  of  God 
6erveth  to  teach  men  hoo/  to  carry  themselves  towards  God,  as 
friends,  after  they  are  reconciled  to  him,  viz.  To  be  loth  to  sin  against 
him,  and  to  strive  heartily  to  obey  his  commandments:  and  there- 
fire  the  word  of  Goo  here  is  called  the  toardof  reconciliation,  because 
it  reacheth  us  what  need  we  have  of  reconciliation,  and  how  to  ob- 
t.in  it,  and  how  to  keep  the  reconciliation  or  friendship,  being  made 
with  God  through  Christ. 

Fifu  .  >.  tearing,  believing,  and  obeying  of  this  word, 

doth  belong  to  all  tl  <•  ie  to  whom  this  gospel  doth  come;  yet  the  of* 
of  preaching  ol  it,  with  authority,  belongeth  to  none  but  to  such 
onlv  as  God  doth  call  to  his  ministry,  and  sendeth  out  witii  commis- 
sion for  this  work.    This  the  Apostle  holdeth  forth,  ver.  19.  in  t. 
words:  "  He  hath  committed  to  us  tilt  word  of  reconciliation." 

Sixths  That  the  ministers  of  the  gospel  should  behave  then 
as  Christ's  m  ,  and  should  closely  follow  their  commission 

set  down  in  the  wo*.u.    Matt,  \w.ii.  t<  .   when   they  do  so, 

they  should  I"  adorafrom  Go»; 

for  here  the  Apostle,  in  ;.ll  their  names,  saith,  "  We  are  ambassadors 
'  ist,  as  though  (rod  did  .  -      hi  by  us." 

'</,  That  ministers,  in  ali  1  ol  ..IK  1  lions,  should  deal 

with  people  to  acknowledge  their  sins,  and  their  natural  enmity 
again. t  God,  more  and  more  sen  ittal)  ;  and  to  consent  to  the  cove- 
nant ol  grace  and  (  ot  Christ  more  and  more  heartily; 
and  to  evidence  more  and  more  clearly  their  reconciliation,  by  a  holv 
carriage  I  -.  Tuis  he  boldethlforth,  when  he  saith,  "  \\  \ 
"  prav  yo!                    .ltd  10  God." 


TJie  Practical  Use  of  Saving  Knowledge.  6o£ 

Eighth,  That  in  the  minister's  affectionate  dealing  with  the  people, 
the  people  should  consider  that  they  have  to  do  with  God  and 
Christ,  requesting  them,  by  the  ministers,  to  be  reconciled  :  Now, 
there  cannot  be  a  greater  inducement  to  break  a  sinner's  hard  heart, 
than  God's  making  a  request  to  him  for  friendship  ;  for  when  it  be- 
came us,  who  have  done  so  many  wrongs  to  God,  to  seek  friend*, 
ship  of  God,  he  preventeth*  us;  and  (O  wonder  of  wonders!)  he 
requesteth  us  to  be  content  to  be  reconciled  to  him;  and  therefore 
most  fearful  wrath  must  abide  them  who  do  set  light  by  this  request, 
and  do  not  yield  when  they  hear  ministers  with  commission,  saying, 
*'  We  are  ambassadors  tor  Christ,  as  though  God  did  beseech 
u  you  by  us:  we  pray  you,  in  Christ's  stead,  be  ye  reconciled  t6 
*  God/" 

Ninth,  To  make  it  appear,  how  it  cometh  to  pass  that  reconcilia- 
tion should  be  so  easily  effected  betwixt  God  and  a  humble  sinner 
fleeing  to  Christ,  the  Apostle  leads  us  unto  the  cause  of  it,  held 
forth  in  the  covenant  of  grace,  the  sum  whereof  is  this  :  "  It  is 
-"  agreed  betwixt  God  and  the  Mediator  Jesus  Christ,  the  Son  of 
"  God,  surety  for  the  redeemed,  as  parties-contractors,  that  the  sins 
"  of  the  redeemed  should  be  imputed  to  innocent  Christ,  and  he 
"  both  condemned  and  put  to  death  for  them,  upon  this  very  con- 
"  dition,  that  whosoever  heartily  consents  unto  the  reconciliation  of- 
u  fered  through  Christ,  shall,  by  the  imputation  of  his  obedience 
*'  unto  them,  be  justified  and  held  righteous  before  God;  for 
•*  God  hath  made  Christ,  ivh-o  knew  no  sin,  to  be  sin  for  us,  saith  the 
*'  Apostle,  that  toe  might  he  made  the  righteousness  of  God  in  him." 

Hence  may  a  weak  believer  strengthen  his  faith,  by  reasoning  from 
this  ground  after  this  manner : 

"  He  that,  upon  the  loving  request  of  God  and  Christ,  made  to 
"  him  by  the  mouth  of  ministers  (having  commission  to  that  effect), 
M  hath  embraced  the  offer  of  perpetual  reconciliation  throughCHRisT, 
"  and  doth  purpose,  by  God's  grace,  as  a  reconciled  person,  to  strive 
M  against  sin,  and  to  serve  God  to  his  power  constantly,  may  be  as 
"  sure  to  have  righteousness  and  eternal  life  given  to  him,  for  the 
"  obedience  of  Christ  imputed  to  him,  as  it  is  sure  that  Christ 
44  was  condemned  and  put  to  death  tor  the  sins  of  the  redeemed  im- 
"  puted  to  him. 

"  But  I  (may  the  weak  believer  say),  upon  the  loving  request  of 
"  God  and  Christ,  made  tome  by  the  mouth  of  his  ministers,  have 
"  embraced  the  offer  of  perpetual  reconciliation  through  Christ, 
"and  do  purpose,  by  God's  grace,  as  a  reconciled  person,  to  strive 
"  against  sin,  and  to  serve  Gon  to  my  power  constantly. 

"  Therefore  I  may  be  as  sure  to  have  righteousness  and  eternal  life 
"  given  to  me,  for  the  obedience  of  Christ  imputed  to  me,  as  it  Is 
t*  sure  that  Christ  was  condemned  and  put  to  death  for  the  sins  of 
"  the  redeemed  imputed  to  him." 

*  "  Preventeth ,"  i.  e,  is  before-hand  with  us. 


604  The  Ptaflual  Use  of  Savin?  Knowledge. 

The  third  warrant  and  special  motive  to  believe  in  Christ,  is  the 
strait  and  aivful  ctmmand  of  GW,  charging  all  the  hearers   of  the 
gospel  to  approacii  to  Christ  in  the  order  set  down  by  him,  and 
to  believe  in  him  :  held  forth,  i  John  iii.  23. 
This  is  his  commandment,  that  ice   should  believe  on   the  name  of  his 

Son  Jesus  Christ,  and  love  one  another,  as  he  gave  us  commandment. 
Wherein  the  Apostle  giveth  us  to  understand  these  five  doctrines : 

1.  That  it  any  man  shall  not  be  taken  with  the  sweet  invitation  of 
God,  nor  with  the  humble  and  loving  request  of  God,  made  to  him 
to  be  reconciled,  he  shall  find  he  bath  to  do  with  the  sovereign  au- 
thority of  the  highest  Majesty:  for  "  this  is  his  commandment,  that 
"  we  believe  in  him,"  saith  he. 

2.  That  if  any  man  look  upon  this  commandment  as  he  hath  looked 
heretofore  upon  the  neglected  commandments  of  the  law,  he  must 
consider  that  this  is  a  command  of  the  gospel,*  posterior  to  the  law, 
given  for  making  use  of  the  remedy  of  all  sins  ;  which,  if  it  be  diso- 
beyed, there  is  no  other  command  to  follow  but  this,  "  Go,  ve 
"cursed,  into  the  everlasting  fire  of  hell:"  for  "  this  is  his  com- 
"  mandment,"  the  obedience  of  which  is  most  pleasant  in  his  sight, 
ver.  22.  and  without  which  it  is  impossible  to  please  him.  Heb.  xi.  6. 

3.  That  every  one  who  heareth  the  gospel,  must  make  conscience 
of  the  duty  of  lively  faith  in  Christ:  the  weak  believer  must  not 
think  it  presumption  to  do  what  is  commanded;  the  person  inclined 
Jo  desperation  must  take  up  himself,  and  think  upon  obedience  unto 
this  sweet  and  saving  command  :  The  strong  believer  must  dip  yet 
more  in  the  sense  of  his  need  he  hath  of  Jesus  Christ,  and  more 
and  more  grow  in  the  obedience  of  this  command :  yea,  the  most 
impenitent,  profane,  and  wicked  person  must  not  thrust  out  himself, 
or  be  tiirust  out  by  others,  from  orderly  aiming  at  this  duty,  how  des- 
perate soever  his  condition  seem  to  be:  for  he  that  commands  all 
men  to  believe  in  Christ,  doth  thereby  command  all  men  to  be- 
lieve that  they  are  damned  and  lost  without  Christ:  he  thereby 
commands  all  men  to  acknowledge  their  sins,  and  their  need  of 
Christ,  and  in  elFect  commands  all  nun  to  repent  and  believe  in 
him.  And  whosoever  do  refuse  to  repent  of  their  bygone  sins,  are 
guilty  of  disobedience  to  this  command,  given  to  all  hearers,  but  es- 
pecially to  those  that  arc  within  the  visible  church:  for  "  this  \>  his 
*'  commandment,  that  we  should  believe  on  the  name  of  his  Son  Je- 
"  sus  Christ,"  saith  he. 

4.  That  he  who  obeyeth  this  commandment,  hath  built  hi 

lion  on  a  solid  ground  j  lor,  i.  He  hath  found  the  promised  Messiah, 
completelv  furnished  with  all  perfections  unto  tin  execution 

ot  the  offices  ol  Prophet,  Priest,  and  King;  (or  be  is  that  Christ, 
in  whom  the  man  doth  believe.     2.  He  hath  embraced  a  Saviour, 


•  »'.  /.  A  command  founded  on  the  dispensation  of  grace  revealed  in  the 
gospel,  and  which  could  Dot  be  enjoined  by  the  1j\v  ;i-  a  covenant  of  works, 
which  knows  nothing  of  ■  Mediator ;  otherwise  all  commands  do,  in  their  own 
future,  belong  to  the  law. 


The  Praclkal  Use  of  Saving  Knowledge.  605 

who  is  able  to  save  to  the  uttermost;  yea,  and  who  doth  effectually 
save,  every  one  that  cometh  to  God  through  him :  for  he  is  Jesus 
the  true  Saviour  of  his  people  from  their  sin-..  3.  He  that  obeyeth 
this  command,  hath  built  his  salvation  on.  the  rock,  that  is,  on  the 
Son  of  God,  to  whom  it  is  no  robbery  to  be  called  equal  to  the  Fa- 
ther, and  who  is  worthy  to  be  the  object  of  saving  faith,  and  of  spi- 
ritual worship:  for  "  this  is  his  command,"  baiih  he,  *'  that  we  be- 
f*  lieve  in  the  name  of  his  Son  Jesus  Christ." 

5.  -That  he  who  hath  believed  on  Jesus  Christ  (though  he  be 
freed  from  the  curse  of  the  law)  is  not  freed  trom  the  command  and 
obedience  of  the  law,  but  tied  thereunto  by  a  new  obligation,  and  a 
new  command  from  Christ  ;  which  new  command  from  Christ 
importeth  help  to  obey  the  command;  unto  which  command  from 
Christ,  the  Father  addeth  his  authority  and  command  also;  for 
*'  this  is  his  commandment,"  saith  John,  "  that  we  believe  on  the 
"name  of  his  Son  Jesus  Christ,  and  love  one  another,  as  he  hath 
M  commanded  us."  The  first  part  of  which  command,  enjoining 
belief  in  him,  necessarily  implieth  love  to  God,  and  so  obedience 
to  the  first  table;  for  believing  in  God,  and  loving  God,  are  in- 
separable, and  the  second  part  of  the  command  enjoineth  love  to  our 
neighbour,  (especially  to  the  household  of  faith,  and  so  obedience  to 
the  second  table  of  the  law. 

Hence  may  a  weak  believer  strengthen  himself,  by  reasoning  from 
this  ground  alter  this  manner: 

"  Whosoever  in  the  sense  of  his  own  sinfulness  and  fear  of  God's 
"wrath,  at  the  command  of  God,  is  fled  to  Jesus  Christ,  the 
"  only  remedy  of  sin  and  misery,  and  hath  engaged  his  heart  to 
"  the  obedience  of  the  law  of  love,  his  faith  is  not  presumptuous  or 
"  dead,  but  true  and  saving  faith. 

"  But  1  (may  the  weak  believer  say),  in  the  sense  of  my  own 
"  sinfulness,  and  fear  of  God's  wrath,  am  fled  to  Jesus  Christ, 
"  the  only  remedy  of  sin  and  misery,  and  have  engaged  my  heart  to 
"  the  obedience  of  the  law  of  love. 

"  Therefore  my  faith  is  not  a  presumptuous  and  dead  faith,  but 
f*  true  and  saving  faith." 

The  fourth  warrant  and  special  motive  to  believe  in  Christ,  is 
much  assurance  of  life  given,  in  case  men  shall  obey  the  command 
of  believing  ;  and  a  fearful  certification  of  destruction,  in  case  thev 
obey  not;  held  forth,  John  iii.  35. 

The  Father  loveth  the  Son,  and  hath  given  all  things  into  his  hand. 
Ver.  36.  He  that  htiieveth  on  the  Son,  hath  everlasting  Life  :  And  he  that 
helieveth  not  the  Son,  shall  not  see  life ;  but  the  wrath  of  God  abideth 
{in  him. 

Wherein  are  held  forth  to  us  these  five  following  doctrines: 

1.  That  the  Father  is  well  satisfied   with  the  undertakings  of  the 

Son,  entered  Redeemer  and  Surety  to  pay  the  ransom  of  believers, 

and  to  perfect  them  in  holiness  and  salvation  :  "The  Father  loveth 

f«  the  Son,"  saith  he;  viz.  as  hestandeth  Mediator  in  our  name,  un- 


606  The  Pracl'ual  Use  of  Saving  Knowledge. 

dertakingto  perfect  our  redemption  in  all  points :  The  Father  loveth. 
him,  that  is,  doth  heartily  accept  liib  offer  to  do  the  work,  and  is 
well  pleased  with  him;  his  soul  delighteth  in  him,  and  resteth  upon, 
him,  and  maketh  him,  in  this  his  office,  the  "  receptacle  or  love,  and 
"  grate,  and  good  will,"  to  be  conveyed  by  him  to  believers  in  him. 

2.  That,  for  fulfilling  of  the  covenant  of  grace,  the  Father  hath 
given  to  the  Son  (as  he  standeth  in  the  capacity  of  the  Mediator, 
or  as  he  is  God  incarnate,  the  Word  made  flesh)  all  authority  in 
heaven  and  earth,  all  furniture  of  the  riches  of  grace,  and  of  spirit 
and  life,  with  all  power  and  ability,  which  the  union  of  the  divine 
nature  with  the  human,  or  which  the  fulness  of  the  Godhead  dwel- 
ling substantially  in  his  human  nature,  or  which  the  indivisible  all- 
sufficiency  and  omnipotency  of  the  inseparable,  everv-uhere  present 
Trinity  doth  import,  or  the  work  of  redemption  can  require:  "  The 
"  Father  (saith  he)  hath  given  all  things  into  the  Son's  hand,"  to  wit, 
for  accomplishing  his  work. 

3.  Great  assurance  of  life  is  held  forth  to  all  who  shall  heartily  re- 
ceive Christ,  and  the  offer  of  grace  and  reconciliation  through 
him:  "  He  that  believeth  on  the  Son,"  saith  he,  "  hath  everlasting 
"  life;"  for  it  is  made  fast  unto  him,  1.  In  God's  purpose  and  ir- 
revocable decree,  as  the  believer  is  a  man  elected  to  iiie.  2.  By  ef- 
fectual calling  of  him  unto  life  by  God,  who,  as  he  is  faithful,  so  will 
he  doit.  3.  By  promise  and  everlasting  covenant,  sworn  by  God, 
to  give  the  believer  strong  consolation  in  life  and  death,  upon  immu- 
table grounds.  4.  By  a  pawn  and  infeftment*  under  the  great  teal 
of  the  sacrament  of  the  Lord's  supper,  so  oft  as  the  believer  shall 
come  to  receive  the  symbols  and  pledges  of  life.  5.  In  Christ  the 
fountain  and  head  of  life,  who  is  entered  in  possession,  as  attorney 
for  believers;  in  whom  our  life  is  so  laid  up,  that  it  cannot  be  taken 
awav.  6.  Bv  begun  possession  of  spiritual  lite  in  regeneration,  and 
a  kingdom  consisting  in  righteousness,  peace,  and  joy  in  the  Holy 
Ghost,  erected  within  the  believer,  as  earnest  of  the  full  possession 
of  everlasting  life. 

4.  A  fearful  certification  is  given,  if  a  man  receive  not  the  doc- 
trine concerning  righteousness  and  eternal  lite  to  be  had  by  Jesus 
Christ:  "  He  that  believes  not  the  Son,  shall  not  see  life;"  that  is, 
not  so  much  as  understand  what  it  meanefh. 

5.  He  further  certifieth,  that  if  a  man  receive  not  the  doctrine  of 
the  Son  of  God,  he  shall  be  burdened  twice  u  ith  the  wrath  of  God  ; 
once  as  a  born  rebel  by  nature,  he  shall  bear  the  curse  of  the  law,  or 
the  covenant  of  works;  and  next  he  shall  endure  a  greater  condem- 
nation, in  respect  that  light  being  come  into  the  world,  and  offered 
to  him,  he  hath  rejected  ir,  and  loveth  darkness  rather  than  light: 
And  this  double  wrath  shall  be  fastened  and  fixed  immoveably  upon 
him,  so  lon<;  as  he  remaineth  in  the  condition  of  unbelief:  "The 
u  wrath  ol  God  abideth  on  him,"  saith  he. 

•  A  term  borrowed  from  the  Scots  law,  signifying  the  solemnity  of  the  dc» 
livery  of  an  heritable  8ubjeCt  to  the  proprietor. 


The  Practical  Use  of  Saving  Knowledge.  607 

Hence  may  the  weak  believer  strengthen  his  faith,  by  reasoning 
from  this  ground  after  this  manner: 

"  Whosoever  believeth  the  doctrine  delivered  by  the  Son  of  God,, 
"  and  findeth  himself  partly  drawn  powerfully  to  believe  in  him,  by 
«'  the  sight  of  life  in  him,  and  partly  driven  by  the  fear  of  God's 
"  wrath,  to  adhere  unto  him,  may  be  sure  of  right  and  interest  to 
"  life  eternal  through  him. 

"  But  sinful  and  unworthy  I  (may  the  weak  believer  say)  do  be- 
«'  lieve  the  doctrine  delivered  by  the  Son  of  God,  and  do  feel  my- 
"  self  partly  drawn  powerfully  to  believe  in  him,  by  the  sight  of  life 
"  in  him,  and  partly  driven,  by  the  fear  of  God's  wrath,  to  adhere 
"  unto  him. 

"  Therefore  I  may  be  sure  of  my  right  and  interest  unto  eternal 
**  life  through  him." 


The  EVIDENCES  of  true  FAITH. 

SO  much  for  the  laying  the  grounds  of  faith,  and  warrants  to  be- 
lieve. Now,  for  evidencing  of  true  faith  by  fruits,  these  four 
things  are  requisite:  1.  That  the  believer  be  soundly  convinced  in 
his  judgment,  of  his  obligation  to  keep  the  whole  moral  law,  all  the 
days  of  his  lift;  and  that  not  the  less,  but  so  much  the  more,  as  he 
is  delivered  by  Christ  from  the  covenant  of  works,  and  curse  of  the 
law.  2.  That  he  endeavour  to  grow  in  the  exercise  and  daily  prac- 
tice of  godliness  and  righteousness.  3.  That  the  course  of  his  new 
obedience  run  in  the  right  channel,  that  is,  through  faith  in  Christ, 
and  through  a  good  conscience,  to  all  the  duties  of  love  towards  God 
and  man.  4.  That  he  keep  strait  communion  with  the  fountain 
Christ  Jesus,  from  whom  grace  must  run  along  for  furnishing  of 
good  fruits. 

For  the  first,  viz.  To  convince  the  believer,  in  his  judgment,  of  his 

obligation  to  keep  the  moral  law,  among  many  passages,  take 

Mat.  v.  16. 

Let  your  light  so  shine  before  men,  that  they  may  see  your  good  works, 
and  glorify  your  Father  which  is  in  heaven.  Ver.  17.  Think  not  that  I 
am  come  to  destroy  the  law  or  the  Jiro/ihets  :  I  am  not  come  to  destroy,  but 
to  fulfil.  Ver.  18.  For  verily  I  say  unto  you,  Till  heaven  and  earth  fiass9 
one  jot  or  one  tittle  shall  in  no  zvise  pass  from  the  law,  till  all  be  fulfilled. 
Ver.  19.  Whosoever,  therefore,  shall  break  one  of  these  least  command- 
ments,  and  shall  teach  ?nen  so,  he  shall  be  called  the  least  in  the  kingdom 
of  heaven  :  But  whosoever  shall  do,  and  teach  them,  the  same  shall  be 
called  great  in  the  kingdom  of  heaven.  Ver.  20.  For  I  say  unto  you, 
That  except  your  righteousness  shall  exceed  the  righteous?iess  of  the  Scribe 
and  Pharisees,  ye  shall  in  no  case  enter  into  tin  kingdom  of  heaven. 

Wherein  our  Lord, 


6o3  The  Practical  Use  of  Saving  Knowledge. 

i.  f  riveth  commandment  to  believers,  justified  by  faith,  to  give 
evidence  of  the  grace  ol  God  in  them,  before  men,  by  doing  goo.l 
works:  "  Ltt  your  light  so  shine  before  men,"  saith  he,  "  that  they 
"  may  see  your  good  woi 

z.  lie  induceth  them  so  ro  do,  by  shewing,  that  albeit  they  be  not 
justified  by  works,  yet  spectators  or  their  good  works  may  be  con- 
verted  or  edified  ;  an  I  so  glory  may  redound  to  God  bv  their  good 
workc,  when  the  witnesses  thereof  "  shall  glorify  your  Father  which 
"  is  in  heaven." 

3.  He  gives  them  no  other  rule  for  their  new  obedience  than  the 
moral  law,  set  down  and  explicated  by  Moses  and  the  prophets; 
*'  Think  not  (saith  he)  that  1  am  come  to  destroy  the  law  or  the 
"  prophets." 

4.  He  gives  them  to  understand,  that  the  doctrine  of  grace  and 
freedom  from  the  curse  of  the  law,  by  faith  in  him,  is  readily  mis- 
taken by  men's  corrupt  judgments,  as  if  it  did  loose  or  slacken  the 
obligation  of  believers  to  obey  the  commands,  and  to  be  subject  to 
the  authority  of  the  law  ;  and  that  this  error  is  indeed  a  destroying  of 
the  law  and  of  the  prophets,  which  he  will  in  no  case  ever  endure 
in  any  of  his  disciples,  it  is  so  contrary  to  the  end  of  his  coming, 
which  is  first  to  sanctify,  and  then  to  save  believers:  "  Think  not 
"  (saith  he)  that  I  am  come  to  destroy  the  law  or  the  prophets." 

5.  He  tcacheth,  that  the  end  of  the  gospel  and  covenant  of  grace 
is  to  procure  men's  obedience  unto  the  moral  law:  "  I  am  come 
"  (saith  he)  to  fulfil  the  law  and  the  prophets." 

6.  That  the  obligation  of  the  moral  law,  in  all  points,  unto  all 
holv  dutie-.,  is  perpetual  *  ai>d  shall  stand  to  the  world's  end,  that  is, 
«'  till  heaven  and  earth  pass  away." 

7.  That  as  God  hath  had  a  care  of  the  scriptures  from  the  begin- 
ning, so  shall  he  have  a  care  of  them  still  to  the  world's  end,  that 
there  shall  not  one  jot  or  one  tittle  of  the  substance  thereof  be  taken 
away  ;  so  saith  the  text,  vtr.  18. 

S.  That  as  the  breaking  of  the  moral  law,  and  defending  the  trans- 
gressions thereof  to  be  no  sin,  doth  exclude  men,  both  from  heaven, 
and  justly  also  from  the  fellowship  of  the  true  church ;  so  the  obedi- 
ence of  the  law,  and  teaching  others  to  do  the  same,  by  example, 
counsel,  and  doctrine,  according  to  every  man's  calling,  proveth  a 
man  to  be  a  true  believer,  and  in  grers:  estimation  with  God,  and 
worthy  to  be  much  esteemed  of  by  the  true  church,  ver.  19. 

9.  That  the  righteousness  of  every  true  Christian  must  be  morK 
than  the  righteousness  of  the  Scribes  and  Pharisees,  for  the  Scribes 
and  l'haiisets,  albeit  they  took  great  pain>  to  discharge  sundry  duties 
of  the  law,  yet  they  cut  short  the  exposition  thereof,  that  it  might 
the  less  condemn  their  practice;  they  studied  the  outward  part  or  me 
duty,  but  neglected  the  inward  and  spiritual  part;  the)  discharged 
some  meaner  duties  carefully,  but  neglected  judgment,  mercy,  and 
the  love  ol  God  :  In  a  word,  they  went  about  to  establish  tlieir  own 
righteousness,  and  rejected  the  righteousness  ol  Cioo  by  faith  in  Jt-v 
svs.     But  a  true  Christian  must  have  more  than  ail  tins;  he  must 


The  Practical  Use  of  Saving  Knowledge,  609 

acknowledge  the  full  extent  of  the  spiritual  meaning  of  the  law,  and 
have  a  respect  to  all  the  commandments,  and  labour  to  cleanse  him- 
self from  all  filthiness  of  flesh  and  spirit,  and  "  not  lay  weight  upon 
"  what  service  he  hath  done,  or  shall  do,"  but  clothe  himself  with 
the  imputed  righteousness  of  Christ,  which  only  can  hide  his  na- 
kedness, or  else  he  cannot  be  saved ;  so  saith  the  text,  "  except  your 
*'  righteousness,"  &c. 

The  second  thing  requisite  to  evidence  true  faith  is,  that  the  believeE 
endeavour  to  put  the  rules  of  godliness  and  righteousness  in  prac- 
tice, and  to  grow  in  the  daily  exercise  thereof,  held  forth,  % 
Pet.  i.  5. 

And  besides  this,  giving  all  diligence,  add  to  your  faith,  virtue  :  and 
to  virtue,  knowledge;  ver.  6.  And  to  knowledge,  temperance ;  and  to 
temperance,  patience  ;  and  to  patience,  godliness;  ver.  7.  And  to  fodli- 
Kess,  brotherly-kindness ;  and  to  brotherly-kindness,  charity.  Ver.  8.  For 
if  these  things  be  in  you,  and  abound,  they  ?nake  you  that  ye  shall  ?ieither 
be  barren,  nor  unfruitful  in  the  knowledge  of  our  Lord  Jesus  Christ. 

Wherein,  1.  The  Apostle  teacheth  believers,  for  evidencing  of 
precious  faith  in  themselves,  to  endeavour  to  add  to  their  faith  seven, 
other  sister  graces.  The  first  is  Virtue,  or  the  active  exercise  and 
practice  of  all  moral  duties,  that  so  faith  may  not  be  idle,  but  put 
forth  itself  in  work.  The  second  is  Knowledge,  which  serves  to  fur- 
nish faith  with  information  of  the  truth  to  be  believed,  and  to  fur-» 
nish  virtue  with  direction  what  duties  are  to  be  done,  and  how  to  go 
about  them  prudently.  The  third  is  Temperance,  which  serveth  to 
moderate  the  use  of  all  pleasant  things,  that  a  man  be  not  clogged 
therewith,  nor  made  unfit  for  any  duty  whereto  he  is  called.  The 
fourth  is  Patience,  which  serveth  to  moderate  a  man's  affections., 
when  he  meeteth  with  any  difficulty  or  unpleasant  thing;  that  he  nei- 
ther weary  for  pains  required  in  well-doing,  nor  faint  when  the  Lord* 
chastiseth  him,  nor  murmur  when  he  crosseth  him.  The  fifth  is 
Godliness,  which  may  keep  him  up  in  all  the  exercises  of  religion, 
inward  and  outward;  whereby  he  may  be  furnished  from  God,  for 
all  other  duties  which  he  hath  to  do.  The  sixth  is  Brotherly-kind- 
ness, which  keepeth  estimation  of,  and  affedtion  to,  all  the  house- 
hold of  faith,  and  to  the  image  of  God  in  every  one  wheresoever  it  is 
seen.  The  seventh  is  Love,  which  keepeth  the  heart  in  readiness 
to  do  good  to  all  men,  whatsoever  they  be,  upon  all  occasions  which. 
God  shall  offer. 

2.  Albeit  it  be  true,  that  there  is  much  corruption  and  infirmity  in 
the  godly ;  yet  the  Apostle  will  have  men  uprightly  jendeavouring, 
and  doing  their  best,  as  they  are  able,  to  join  all  these  graces  one  to 
another,  and  to  grow  in  the  measure  of  exercising  them :  "  Giving 
"  all  diligence  (saith  he),  add  to  your  faith,"  &c. 

3.  He  assureth  all  professed  believers,  that  as.  they  shall  profit  in 
the  obedience  of  this  direction,  so  they  shall  profitably  prove  the. 
soundness  of  their  own  faith ;  and  if  they  want  these  graces,  tliat  they 
shall  be  found  blind  deceivers  of  themselves,  ver.  9. 

4H 


6lO  The  Practical  Use  of  Saving  Knowledge. 

The  third  thine;  rcqr.Hte  to  evidence  true  faith  is,  that  obedience  to 
the  lr.w  run  in  the  right  channel,  that  is,  through  faith  uiChrist, 
.  held  forth,  i  Tim.  i.  5. 
the  end  of  the  commandment  is  love,  out  of  a  pure  //cart,  and  of  a 
roc.-/  conscience,  and  cf  faith  unfeigned. 

Wherein  the  Apostle  teacheth  these  seven  doctrines: 

1.  That  the  obedience  of  the  law  must  flow  from  love,  and  love 
from  a  pure  heart,  and  a  pure  heart  from  a  good  conscience,  and  a 
good  conscience  from  faith  unfeigned  :  This  he  makes  the  only  right 
channel  of  good  works:  "  The  end  of  the  law  is  love,"  &c. 

2.  That  the  end  of  the  law  is  not,  that  men  may  be  justified  by 
their  obedience  of  it,  as  the  Jewish  doctors  did  falsely  teach  ;  for  it 
is  impossible  that  sinners  can 'be  justified  by  the  law,  who,  for  every 
transgression,  are  condemned  by  the  law :  "  For  the  end  of  the  law 
**  is  (not  sucii  as  the  Jewish  doctors  taught,  but)  love,  out  of  a  pure 
"  heart,"  &e. 

3.  That  the  true  end  of  the  law,  preached  unto  the  people,  is  that 
they,  by  the  law,  being  made  to  see  their  deserved  condemnation, 
should  flee  to  Christ  unfeignedly,  to  be  justified  by  faith  in  him; 
so  saith  the  text,  while  it  maketh  love  to  flow  through  in  faith  in 
Christ. 

4.  That  no  man  can  set  himself  in  love  to  obey  the  law,  except  in 
as  far  as  his  conscience  is  quieted  by  faith,  or  is  seeking  to  be  quieted 
in  C  h  r  1  st  ;  for  "  the  end  of  the  law  is  love,  out  of  a  good  conscience, 
**  and  faith  unfeigned." 

5.  That  feigned  faith  goeth  to  Christ  without  reckoning  with 
the  law,  and  so  wants  an  errand  ;  but  unfeigned  faith  reckoneth  with 
the  law,  and  is  forced  to  flee  for  refuge  unto  Chr*6T,  as  the  end  of 
Jaw  for  righteousness,  so  often  as  it  finds  itself  guilty  for  breaking  of 
the  law :  "  For  the  end  of  the  law  is  faith  unfeigned." 

6.  That  the  fruits  of  love  may  come  forth  in  a&  particularly,  it  is 
necessary  that  the  heart  be  brought  to  the  hatred  of  all  sin  and  un- 
cleanne^s,  and  to  a  stedfast  purpose  to  follow  all  holiness  universally  ; 
*'  For  the  end  of  the  law  is  love,  out  of  a  pure  heart."' 

7.  That  unfeigned  faith  is  abie  to  make  the  conscience  good,  and 
the  heart  pure,  and  the  man  lovingly  obedient  to  the  law;  lor  when 
C'hk  ist's  blood  is  seen  by  faith  to  qu-et  justice',  then  the  conscience 
becometh  quiet  also,  and  will  not  suffer  the  heart  to  entertain  the 
love  of  sin,  but  sets  the  man  on  work  to  fear  God  for  his  mercy, 
and  to  obey  all  his  commandments,  out  of  love  to  God,  for  his  free 
gift  of  justification,  by  grace  bestowed  on  him  :  "  For  this  is  the  end 
u  of  the  law  indeed,"  whereby  it  obtaineth  of  a  man  more  obedience 
than  any  other  way. 

The  fourth  tiling  requisite  to  evidence  true  faith  is,  the  keeping  strait 
communion  with  Christ,  the  fountain  of  all  graces,  and  of  all  good 
works  held  forth  John  xv.  5. 
J  am  the  vine,  ye  are  the  branches :  He  that  abideik  in  we,  and  1 m 

him%  the  tame  bringeth ■  forth  much  fruit ;  for  without  me  ye  can  do  nothing. 


The  Praftical  Use  of  Saving  Knowledge.  61 J 

Wherein  Christ,  in  a  similitude  from  a  vine-tree,  teacheth  us, 
i.  That  by  nature  we  are  wild  barren  briers,  till  we  be  changed 
by  coining  unto  Christ  ;  and  that  Christ  is  that  noble  vine-tree, 
having  all  life  and  sap  of  grace  in  himself,  and  able  to  change  the 
nature  of  every  one  tiiat  cometh  to  him,  and  to  communicate  spiric 
and  life  to  as  many  as  shall  believe  in  him  ;  "  I  am  the  vine  (saith 
"  he),  and  ye  are  the  branches." 

3.  That  Christ  loveth  to  have  believers  so  united  unto  him,  as 
that  they  be  not  separated  at  any  time  by  unbelief:  And  that  there 
may  be  a  mutual  inhabitation  of  them  in  him,  by  faith  and  love ; 
and  of  him  in  them,  by  his  word  and  Spirit ;  for  he  joineth  these  to- 
gether, "  If  ye  abide  in  me,  and  I  in  you,"  as  things  inseparable. 

3.  That  except  a  man  be  ingrafted  in  Christ,  and  united  to  him 
by  faith,  he  cannot  do  any  the  least  good  works  of  his  own  strength  ; 
yea,  except  in  as  far  as  a  man  doth  draw  spirit  and  life  from  Christ 
by  faith,  the  work  which  he  doth  is  naughty  and  null  in  point  of  good- 
ness, in  God's  estimation  :  "  For  without  me  (saith  he),  ye  can  do 
*f  nothing." 

4.  That  this  mutual  inhabitation  is  the  fountain  and  infallible 
cause  of  constant  continuing  and  abounding  in  well-doing:  For 
*'  he  that  abideth  in  me,  and  I  in  him  (saith  he),  the  same  beareth 
**  much  fruit."  Now,  as  our  abiding  in  Christ  presupposeth  three 
things :  1.  That  we  have  heard  the  joyful  sound  of  the  gospel,  mak- 
ing offer  of  Christ  to  us,  who  are  lost  sinners  by  the  law;  2.  That 
we  have  heartily  embraced  the  gracious  offer  of  Christ  ;  3.  That  by- 
receiving  of  him  we  are  become  the  sons  of  God,  John  i.  12.  and 
are  incorporated  into  his  mystical  body,  that  he  may  dwell  in  us,  as 
his  temple,  and  we  dwell  in  him,  as  in  the  residence  of  righteousness 
and  life  :  So  our  abiding  in  Christ  importcth  other  three  things :  1. 
An  employing  of  Christ  in  all  our  addresses  to  God,  and  in  all  our 
undertakings  of  whatsoever  piece  of  service  to  him ;  2.  A  contented- 
ness  with  his  sufficie  ncy,  without  going  out  from  him  to  seek  righte- 
ousness, or  life,  or  furniture  in  any  case,  in  our  own  or  any  of  the 
creature's  worthiness;  3.  A  fixedness  in  our  believing  in  him,  a  fixed- 
ness in  our  employing  and  making  use  of  him,  and  a  fixedness  in  our 
contentment  in  him,  and  adhering  to  him,  so  that  no  allurement,  no 
temptation  of  Satan  or  the  world,  no  terror  nor  trouble,  may  be  able 
to  drive  our  spirits  from  firm  adherence  to  him,  or  from  the  constant 
avowing  of  his  truth,  and  obeying  his  commands,  who  hath  loved 
us,  and  given  himself  for  us;  and  in  whom,  not  onlv  our  life  is  laid 
up,  but  also  the  fulness  of  the  Godhead  dwelleth  bodily,  by  reason 
of  the  substantial  and  personal  union  of  the  divine  and  human  nature 
in  him. 

Hence  let  every  watchful  believer,  for  strengthening  himself  in 
faith  and  obedience,  reason  after  this  manner  : 

"  Whosoever  doth  daily  employ  Christ  Jesus,  for  cleansing  his 
"  conscience  and  affecfions  from  the  guiltiness  and  filthiness  of  sins 
*'  against  the  law,  and  for  enabling  him  to  give  obedience  to  the  law 
f*  in  love,  he  hath  the  evidence  of  true-  faith  in  himself. 


6l2  The  Praclical  Use  of  Saving  Knowledge. 

"  But  I  (may  every  watchful  believer  say)  do  daily  employ  Jesvs 
"  Christ,  for  cleansing  my  conscience  and  affections  from  the  guil- 
**  tiness  and  filthiness  of  sins  against  the  law,  and  for  enabling  of  me 
"  to  give  obedjence  tp  the  law  in  love. 

*'  Therefore  I  have  the  evidence  of  true  faith  in  myself." 

And  hence  also,  let  the  sleepy  and  sluggish  believer  reason,  for  his 
own  upstirring,  thus : 

"  Whatsoever  is  necessary  for  giving  evidence  of  true  faith,  I  must 
'*  study  to  do  it,  except  I  would  deceive  myself  and  perish. 

11  But,  to  employ  Christ  Jesus  daily,  for  cleansing  of  mv  con- 
M  science  and  affections  from  the  guiltiness  and  filthinc^uf  oins  against 
u  the  law,  and  for  enabling  me  to  give  obedience  to  the  law  in  love, 
"  is  necessary  for  evidencing  of  true  faith  in  me. 

"  Therefore  this  I  must  study  to  do,  except  I  would  deceive  my- 
"  self  and  perish." 

And,  lastly,  Seeing  Christ  himself  hath  pointed  this  forth,  as  an, 
undoubted  evidence  of  a  man  elected  of  God  unto  life,  and  given  to 
Jesus  Christ  to  be  redeemed,  "  if  he  come  unto  him,"  that  is, 
close  covenant,  and  keep  communion  with  him,  as  he  teacheth  us, 
John  vi.  37.  saying,  "  All  that  the  Father  hath  given  me,  shall  come 
"  to  me;  and  him  that  cometh  to  me,  I  will  in  no  wise  cast  out :" 
Let  every  person,  who  doth  not  in  earnest  make  use  of  Christ  for 
remission  of  sin,  and  amendment  of  life,  reason  hence,  and  from  the 
whole  premises,  after  this  manner,  that  his  conscience  may  be  awa- 
kened: 

"  Whosoever  is  neither  by  the  law,  nor  by  the  gospel,  so  convinced 
"  of  sin,  righteousness,  and  judgment,  as  to  make  him  come  to 
"  Christ,  and  employ  him  daily  for  remission  of  sin,  and  amend- 
*'  mem  of  life  ;  he  wanteth  not  only  all  evidence  of  saving  faith,  but 
"  also  aJl  appearance  of  his  election,  so  long  as  he  remaineth  in  this 
n  condition. 

"  But  I  (may  everv  impenitent  person  say)  am  neither  by  the  law 
**  nor  gospel  so  convinced  of  sin,  righteousness,  and  judgment,  as  to 
"  make  me  come  to  Christ,  and  employ  him  daily  for  remission  of 
**  sin,  and  amendment  of  life. 

"  Therefore  I  want  not  only  all  evidence  of  saving  faith,  but  aKo 
*•  all  appearance  of  my  election,  so  long  as  J  remain  in  this  condi- 
"  tion." 


CONTENTS 


SUM  OF  SAVING  KNOWLEDGE. 


HEAD  I.      Our  woful  condition  by  nature. 

II.  The  remedy  provided  in  Christ  Jesus. 

III.  The  means  provided  in  the  covenant  of  grace. 

IV.  The  blessings  conveyed  by  these  means. 

The  Use  of  Saving  Knowledge. 

i .  For  convincing  of  sin  by  the  law. 

2.  Of  righteousness  by  the  law. 

3.  Of  judgment  by  the  law. 

For  convincing  of  sin,  righteousness,  and  judgment  by  the 

gospel. 
Of  righteousness  to  be  had  only  by  faith  in  Christ. 
For  strengthening  a  man's  faith,  &c. 

Warrants  and  Motives  to  believe, 

1.  God's  hearty  invitation. 

S.  His  earnest  request  to  be  reconciled. 

3.  His  command  charging  all  to  believe. 

4".  Much  assurance  of  life  given  to  believers,  £sfc. 

Evidences  of  trite  Faith. 

%.  Conviction  of  the  believer's  obligation  to  keep  the  moral  law. 
s.  That  the  believer  practise  the  rules  of  godliness  and  righteous- 
ness. 

3.  That  obedience  to  the  law  run  in  the  right  channel  of  faith  in 

Christ. 

4.  The  keeping  of  strait  communion  with  Christ,  the  fountain 

of  all  grace  and  good  works. 
For  strengthening  the  believer  in  faith  and  obedience,  by  these 
evidences. 


THE  END. 


ERRATA. 

Page  449,  note  ,r,  for  "  i  Pet.  ii.  15."  read  1  Pet.  ii.  17. 

453,  last  line,  for  M  haughtiness"  read  naughtiness. 

541,  line  12,  in  a  part  of  the  copies  printed  off,  "  fruithful- 
ness"  is  inserted  instead  of  fruiifulness. 


T.  &  J.  SWORDS 

Have  constantly  for  sale,  at  their  Book-store  and  Printing-office, 
No.  99  Pearl -ftreet, 

A  Collection  of 

BOOKS, 

IN 

DIVINITY,  LAW,  PHYSIC,  HISTORY,  VOYAGES, 
TRAVELS,  &c.  &c. 

With  a  general  Assortment  of 

STATIONARY. 

They  execute  every  kind  of 

Printing 

At  the  shortest  notice. 


J 


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